Things you shouldn't put in the dishwasher!
The dishwasher is an invaluable time-saving ally in the kitchen, but unfortunately not everything can go in it... Some items, despite their tough appearance, just can't stand intensive washing cycles, and their passage through the machine can damage them beyond repair. Here are six things you should always wash by hand!
Quality knives: Handle with care
Top-of-the-range kitchen knives are often made of hardened steel, which makes them very sharp. However, dishwashers can dull blades more quickly due to constant contact with other utensils and the abrasive action of detergents. What's more, handles, especially wooden ones, can warp or split under the effect of hot water and steam...
Wooden crockery: Victim of hot water
Wooden utensils and cutting boards should never be put in the dishwasher. Wood is a porous material that absorbs water. Prolonged exposure to moisture and heat can cause wooden objects to crack, swell and even warp. This not only makes them unsightly, but also potentially unhealthy, as cracks can harbor bacteria.
Copper and aluminum objects: Beware of oxidation
Pots, pans and other utensils made of copper or aluminum can lose their shine and quickly become dull when they come into contact with the chemicals used in dishwashers. Oxidation is another problem, especially for aluminum, which can become covered with black spots or dull. To preserve their beauty and functionality, it's best to wash them by hand.
Crystal objects: Beware of breakage...
Crystal glasses and decanters are often synonymous with luxury, but their fragility makes them risky candidates for the dishwasher. Crystal generally contains lead, making it more fragile than ordinary glass. Heat and pressurized water jets can cause cracks or splinters, ruining your precious items in a single wash.
Hand-decorated tableware: A risk for patterns
Crockery with hand-painted patterns or delicate finishes is susceptible to degradation in the dishwasher. Strong detergents and heat can cause patterns to fade or flake, especially if the crockery is not marked "dishwasher safe". To preserve artistic details, it's best to use a gentle hand-wash.
Non-heat-resistant plastics: Deformations in sight!
Not all plastics are equal when it comes to heat. Some plastic items can warp, melt, or release chemicals when subjected to high temperatures. Food containers, for example, can warp or crack, rendering their lids unusable. Always check that plastic items are marked dishwasher-safe before placing them in the dishwasher.
Safety first!
By following these tips, you'll not only protect your kitchenware, you'll also save yourself the unnecessary expense of replacing damaged items. Hand-washing, although more time-consuming, can be essential for extending the life of certain utensils. So the next time you fill your dishwasher, be careful what you put in it, to avoid any nasty surprises!
