Your dishwasher may be your go-to for quick cleanup — but not everything belongs inside it. In fact, some everyday kitchen items should never see the inside of a dishwasher unless you're ready to say goodbye to their quality (and sometimes safety!).
From warping wooden utensils to dulling knives, putting the wrong items in the dishwasher can damage them permanently , shorten their lifespan, or even void warranties .
In this post, we’ll walk you through the top items you should always wash by hand , explain why they don’t belong in the dishwasher, and share smart alternatives to keep your kitchen tools in top shape.
Let’s dive in — before your next load becomes an expensive mistake.
🧼 Why Some Items Don’t Belong in the Dishwasher
Dishwashers are powerful — but they’re also hot, wet, and full of harsh detergents. These conditions are great for most dishes, but disastrous for certain materials .
Here's what makes the dishwasher dangerous for specific items:
Knowing what not to put in your dishwasher can save you time, money, and frustration.
🔥 10 Things You Should Never Put in the Dishwasher
1. 🪵 Wooden Utensils & Cutting Boards
Wooden tools will warp, crack, or splinter when exposed to heat and moisture.
💡 Safe alternative: Hand wash with warm water and mild soap. Dry immediately.
2. 🔪 Knives (Especially Sharp Ones)
The high heat and strong detergent can dull blades , while water pressure can chip ceramic knives .
💡 Safe alternative: Clean with a soft cloth and dry right away to prevent rust.
3. 🥩 Cast Iron Pans
Dishwasher use strips away seasoning and encourages rust.
💡 Safe alternative: Clean with hot water and a brush. Re-season occasionally.
4. 🧊 Crystal Glassware or Fine China
The forceful spray and heat can leave cloudy spots or cause cracking.
💡 Safe alternative: Wash gently by hand using lukewarm water and mild soap.
5. 🍷 Aluminum Cookware
