An expert has warned that people may be loading their dishwashers incorrectly, as there are a number of popular items that should never be put inside the devices. Dishwashers come in very handy, and now almost half of all UK homes have one.
While everyone has their own method for filling the dishwasher, a number of things should never be loaded into the cleaning device. This is because they can’t handle the heat, water pressure, or detergent used.
Andrew Laughlin, dishwasher expert at consumer champion platform Which?, has shared seven things that should never go in the dishwasher. He began by saying: “Never put wooden items like chopping boards and wooden spoons in the dishwasher, as they’re prone to splitting and splintering”. Such items should be washed by hand but not left soaking in water for extended periods.
Non-stick items, including pans and some baking trays, should also be hand-washed to prevent damage to the coating. Thirdly, vacuum-sealed, thermos-style containers, such as insulated water bottles and coffee mugs, should never go in the dishwasher, as the heat can damage the insulation and chip the products,
Steel knives were fourth on his list, with Andrew explaining that while they are safe for the dishwasher, the high temperatures can “dull the blades faster”. Hand-washing will prolong their lifespan, he added, and the same applies to blender blades.
Andrew added: “Premium cookware such as aluminium, copper, or cast iron shouldn’t really go in the dishwasher”, and noted that these materials can rust and tarnish and should always be washed by hand.
He also listed crystal glassware as his sixth item to avoid placing in the dishwasher, as “abrasive detergent can lead to marks and scratches”. The expert went on to say: “If you really must put it in the dishwasher, use a mild detergent, put it on the top rack and put it on a delicate cycle”.
Finally, Andrew cautioned against putting pressure cooker lids in the dishwasher, stating: “While the bottom can go in the dishwasher, the lid should always be washed by hand”.