LifestyleDishwasher vs. hand washing. The surprising truth about which is better for your dishes

Dishwasher vs. hand washing. The surprising truth about which is better for your dishes

Certain dishes should not be put in the dishwasher.
Certain dishes should not be put in the dishwasher.
Images source: © Adobe Stock

10:44 PM EST, January 18, 2024

For many people, washing dishes isn't a favorite household task. It tends to be an unpleasant and irritating chore. In this scenario, a dishwasher becomes a great convenience- it not only saves time but also conserves water.

Regrettably, not all dishes are suitable for dishwasher use, and doing so may cause them to wear out faster, leading to additional costs.

Items to Never Put in a Dishwasher

Many people aren't aware or may simply forget that wooden items should not be washed in a dishwasher. Kitchen utensils like spoons, cutting boards, or bowls made from this material can swell and crack due to the combination of water and high temperatures.

Teflon pans with non-stick coating should also be excluded from dishwasher use. The salt and detergents used in the machine can damage these items. This caution also applies to copper, zinc, aluminized, and enameled dishes, which are not resistant to high temperatures.

Treating Delicate Objects with Care

Delicate objects, such as crystal dishes, porcelain cups, or decorative glass, should also be omitted from a dishwasher cycle. Detergents and high temperatures can cause damage. It is definitely recommended to wash these items by hand in cold water.

Knives often find their way into the dishwasher, unfortunately, a regular wash cycle can cause micro-damage and dull the edges much faster.

In addition, delicate glassware such as goblets should be positioned securely to prevent breakage from water pressure. It's also advisable to rinse dishes to remove food particles and peel off labels from new appliances. This helps to avoid clogging the filter and drainage system and prolongs the machine's life.