1. Copper and Cast Iron
Dishwashers can dull (and rust) copper pots and mugs, as well as cast iron skillets, grills, and dutch ovens. To keep them lasting and in good order, hand wash and dry immediately.
2. Water bottles
For both plastic and stainless steel water bottles, avoid the dishwasher. While stainless steel is dishwasher safe, tapered-mouth water bottles rarely get a proper cleaning in a dishwasher. Use a container brush to give them a good scrub, and air dry. Plastic water bottles should likewise be hand washed. While BPA plastic is dishwasher safe, water temperatures can get high enough to cause general wear and plastic degradation over time. You’ll also avoid dishwasher soap residue tastes and odors.
3. Wine and beer bottles
Wine and beer bottles don’t really get a full cleaning due to their long, thin necks. While temperatures in a dishwasher do a lot to kill bacteria, the size and length, especially of wine bottles, prevents water and soap from fully penetrating the interior.
4. Wooden utensils
Wooden utensils can get bent out of shape when put in the dishwasher. It’s best to hand wash all wooden items and dry well with a dish towel immediately.
5. Wooden cutting boards
Similar to utensils, avoid putting wooden cutting boards in the dishwasher. Again, hand wash and dry.
6. Stoppers and drain catchers
Dishwashers can’t quite hit the mark for a full cleaning on sink and tub stoppers. Soak them in bleach or boil them for 3-5 minutes on the stove.
7. Collectibles
Toys and collectibles are not meant for a dishwasher. Hands down, hand wash.
8. Silverware
A dishwasher will both wear and tarnish silver. To protect your Grandmother’s cherished silverware, leave it out of the dishwasher.
9. Plastics
Always check plastic items for the “dishwasher safe” label before machine washing them.
10. Mementos, handmade mugs, antique wine glasses
Dishwashers dry out pottery mugs and dishware, and can easily crack or weaken antique glass. Don’t risk breaking a memento: hand wash if in doubt.
Hi-Tech Appliance has many dishwasher models available. You can give us a call to find the perfect machine for your home, or stop by our Lewisville showroom.
