Aluminum can pit , darken , or turn chalky in the dishwasher.
💡 Safe alternative: Use gentle cleaners and avoid abrasive scrubbers.
6. 🧤 Non-Stick Pans
High heat and harsh detergents degrade the coating over time.
💡 Safe alternative: Use a soft sponge and mild dish soap — no steel wool!
7. 🧂 Wooden Cutting Board
Like wooden utensils, these can crack, split, or harbor bacteria after being soaked and dried repeatedly.
💡 Safe alternative: Wipe with vinegar or lemon juice and rinse with clean water.
8. 🧴 Glue-Based Items (e.g., Some Colanders or Decorative Mugs)
Over time, water loosens glue seams in items like colanders, ladles, or mugs with decorative handles.
💡 Safe alternative: Always check manufacturer labels — if unsure, skip the dishwasher.
9. 🐟 Copper or Silver Items
Copper tarnishes and silver turns black when exposed to dishwasher chemicals.
💡 Safe alternative: Polish regularly and wash by hand with gentle soap.
10. 🔋 Small Plastic Containers or Lids
They often melt, warp, or lose color under high heat — especially on the top rack.
💡 Safe alternative: Use BPA-free containers labeled “dishwasher-safe” or wash by hand.
📌 Bonus: Other Items That Hate the Dishwasher
Always read care labels — and when in doubt, play it safe and wash by hand.
🧽 How to Spot Hidden Dishwasher Damage
If you’ve accidentally run one of these items through the dishwasher before, here’s how to tell:
Once damaged, some items can be restored — others? Not so much.
🧼 Smart Dishwasher Tips to Protect Your Kitchen Gear
Want to get the most out of your dishwasher without ruining your tools?
✅ Load properly — give items space and avoid overcrowding
✅ Use a quality detergent — avoid chlorine-heavy formulas if possible
✅ Run shorter cycles for lightly used dishes
✅ Air dry instead of heat dry — better for delicate items
✅ Know the “safe zone” — bottom rack is generally gentler than the top
Also, consider using a rinse aid to reduce spotting — just make sure it's compatible with your cookware.
📈 Monetization Hacks for Bloggers & Content Creators
This kind of high-intent cleaning content is perfect for driving traffic and maximizing AdSense performance or affiliate income.
Here’s how to monetize it:
- Place display ads between key sections.
- Recommend dishwasher-safe products like baskets, drying racks, or hand-washing kits using affiliate links.
- Offer downloadable “Kitchen Care Checklist” behind email opt-ins.
- Create a short video explaining the topic for YouTube, TikTok, or Instagram Reels with affiliate links in the description.
📊 SEO Tips for Maximum Reach
To help your post rank higher in search engines, optimize for these keywords:
- "Things not to put in dishwasher"
- "Items that shouldn't go in dishwasher"
- "Dishwasher damage prevention"
- "What breaks in the dishwasher"
- "Dishwasher dos and don’ts"
- "Best practices for dishwasher use"
Use them naturally throughout your content, especially in:
- Headings
- Image alt text
- Meta descriptions
- Video titles and tags
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I put stainless steel in the dishwasher?
A: Yes — just expect occasional spotting or discoloration over time.
Q: Are all wooden items ruined in the dishwasher?
A: Most are — especially those with finishes or natural oils.
Q: Do copper mugs have to be washed by hand?
A: Yes — especially ones meant for Moscow Mule cocktails.
Q: Is there a way to restore warped cutting boards?
A: Sometimes soaking in water and flattening with weight helps — but prevention is best.
Q: What about silicone baking mats or spatulas?
A: Silicone is generally safe — just avoid sharp tools nearby.
🧾 Final Thoughts
Your dishwasher might seem like a time-saver, but it’s not magic — and it certainly isn’t safe for everything.
By knowing what not to put in your dishwasher, you’ll protect your investment, extend the life of your favorite tools, and keep your kitchen running smoothly — and safely.
