18 Things You Should Never Put in the Dishwasher
Even if an item looks dishwasher-safe, heat, strong detergent, and high-pressure water can sometimes damage it.
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Wooden cutting boards — Heat and prolonged moisture can cause warping, cracking, or splitting.
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Wooden spoons and utensils — They can dry out, crack, and lose their finish.
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Cast-iron cookware — The dishwasher can strip its seasoning and encourage rust.
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Carbon-steel pans — Similar to cast iron, they can lose their protective seasoning and rust.
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Nonstick cookware — Repeated dishwasher cycles can gradually damage some nonstick coatings.
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Fine or antique china — High heat and harsh detergents can damage decorations or delicate finishes.
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Crystal glassware — It may become cloudy, etched, or chipped.
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Hand-painted dishes — Dishwasher detergents and heat can fade or remove painted details.
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Insulated travel mugs and thermoses — Heat and water can damage seals, vacuum insulation, or exterior finishes, depending on the model.
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Copper cookware — Dishwasher detergent can dull or discolor the copper.
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Brass items — They may tarnish or lose their finish.
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Aluminum cookware — Some aluminum can discolor or develop a dull, chalky appearance.
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Sharp kitchen knives — Dishwasher detergents and high temperatures can dull blades; knives can also damage other items or injure someone when being unloaded.
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Crystal or delicate wine glasses — They can break from vibration or contact with other dishes.
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Items with glued or bonded parts — Heat and water can weaken adhesives and cause pieces to separate.
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Certain plastics — Thin or low-quality plastics can warp or melt; only dishwasher-safe plastics should go in.
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Anything with a non-dishwasher-safe electrical component — Appliances or accessories containing batteries, motors, or electronics can be ruined by water and heat.
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Anything labeled “hand wash only” — The manufacturer’s warning generally means the item wasn’t designed to withstand dishwasher conditions
