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In our fast-paced, convenience-driven world, dishwashers have become a kitchen staple. However, while they can be a godsend for busy households, not all kitchen items are cut out for the heat and high pressure of the dishwasher cycle. This article will guide you through the dos and don'ts of dishwasher use, focusing on the items that should never set foot in there.
Plastic dishes may seem harmless, but the dishwasher's intense heat can spell disaster for them. Unless clearly marked as "dishwasher safe", it's safer to keep plastic bowls, cups or food storage containers out of the dishwasher. Should you ignore this rule, you might find a melted mess in your dishwasher. Not only could the container be ruined, but it could also damage other dishes or clog your dishwasher drain. Travel mugs, especially those not explicitly labelled as dishwasher safe, should be carefully hand-washed. The high heat of the dishwasher can damage the insulating layers within the mug. Moreover, water that gets trapped between these layers could potentially foster mold growth. Wooden utensils, bowls, cutting boards, and other kitchenware should never enter your dishwasher. The high heat and prolonged exposure to moisture can cause the wood to warp, splinter, and eventually break. Ideally, these items should be hand-washed using warm, soapy water and immediately dried with a towel. Copper dishes and cookware, despite being on-trend, should always be hand-washed. The powerful spray of the dishwasher and harsh detergent can alter the finish and dull the brilliant color of the copper pieces. Expensive dishes with gold leaf accents should steer clear of the dishwasher. The water and detergent can cause the rich gold color to dull or even flake off. The safest option for your fancy dishes is to hand-wash them in warm water. Cast iron skillets should never be soaked in water as it can cause them to rust. Hence, they should also not be placed in your dishwasher. Instead, they should be cleaned by hand with a damp cloth and a small amount of soap, then dried immediately. For stuck-on food, the surface can be rubbed with coarse salt. Non-stick pots and pans should not be washed in the dishwasher. The high temperature can cause the cookware to warp, and the harsh spray and detergent can break down the non-stick coating. Sharp cooking knives should be hand-washed. Dishwasher detergent is abrasive and can wear down the sharp edge over time. Moreover, they can be dangerous to load and unload from the dishwasher. While repurposing your empty condiment jars can be a great idea, make sure to remove stickers and labels before putting them in the dishwasher. The hot water and aggressive spray will peel off the stickers, and the pieces can clog your dishwasher drain or leave residue on your other dishes. Never put your expensive crystal glasses, serving platters, punch bowls, etc., in the dishwasher. The heat and aggressive spray can jostle the items around and potentially crack or chip them. It's best to gently wash your crystal by hand. While dishwashers can make our lives much easier, it's crucial to remember that not all kitchenware is dishwasher-friendly. By taking the time to properly care for your kitchen items, you can extend their lifespan and maintain their quality. So, the next time you're tempted to toss everything into the dishwasher, take a moment to consider whether it's the best course of action for your beloved kitchenware. References:1. The Culprit: Plastic Dishes
2. On-The-Go: Travel Mugs
3. Old School Charmer: Wooden Utensils
4. Aesthetic Appeal: Copper Dishes
5. High-end Elegance: Gold Leaf
6. Everlasting Classic: Cast Iron
7. Easy Cooking: Nonstick Pans
8. Culinary Essentials: Knives
9. Upcycling Danger: Containers with Stickers
10. Luxury Warning: Crystal
11. Conclusion
