Some common items may not be as dishwasher friendly as people believe, one expert noted
People with dishwashers have been warned not to put three types of kitchen items in their dishwashers; plastics, stainless steel and wood. Appliance experts at Hisense UK explained that utensils made out of these materials could be damaged by a dishwasher cycle or potentially even become a carrier for germs that have been cleaned off all of the other items.
Chloe Blanchfield, Product Marketing Manager at Hisense, said: “Dishwashers are brilliant for saving time and ensuring hygienic results, but not everything belongs in one.
“Plastic containers, wooden utensils, and metal-rimmed items in particular should always be washed by hand if you want them to stay safe, functional, and long-lasting.”
They explained that these materials simply aren’t built to survive the high heat, harsh detergents and powerful water jets that make dishwashers one of the most popular items in a kitchen. The experts added: “While it’s tempting to take shortcuts; a little extra effort at the sink can save you money and protect your kitchenware in the long run.”
Tupperware
Some Tupperware may have a dishwasher-safe symbol on the bottom, confirming if it can withstand the heat of a dishwasher. However, certain plastics may be able to handle a few washes.
Repeated exposure can cause the material to start warping, losing colour or cracking due to the heat and movement. The cracks and warps could make Tupperware less airtight, meaning it starts to lose its core use and can become less hygienic, too.
It’s recommended to put your Tupperware on the top rack of your dishwasher, which is furthest from the machine’s heating element, and use a low-temperature cycle. A gentle detergent can also prevent any other damage affecting these items
Wooden utensils
The heat and moisture in a dishwasher can make wood swell and crack. In these cracks, bacteria swirling around the dishwasher can get stuck.
The experts warned: “Before long, your trusty wooden utensils will lose their smooth finish and could become a breeding ground for germs.”
It’s best to hand-wash wooden items with a mild soap and warm water, then dry immediately after washing. Ideally, let the items air dry a bit too by standing them upright.
Stainless steel and metal
Finally, stainless steel and metal-rimmed items could be irreversibly damaged by chucking them in a dishwasher. The harsh detergents can trigger rusting and discolouration, which will likely mean the items have to be replaced soon, too.
Metal items with non-stick coatings or other special finishes can also be damaged by the high heat and detergent in a dishwasher. It’s always best to check for a dishwasher-safe icon on your kitchen items.