If you have doubts about washing a particular item, check with the manufacturer to see if it is dishwasher safe.
Material
Aluminum
Disposable Aluminum
Bottles and Cans
Cast Iron
China/Stoneware
Crystal
Gold
Glass
Hollow-Handle Knives
Pewter, Brass, Bronze,
and Copper
Disposable Plastics
Plastics
Stainless Steel
Sterling Silver or Silver
Plate
Tin
Wooden Ware
Large Casserole Dish
WASHING SPECIAL ITEMS
Dishwasher
Comments
Safe?
High water temperature and detergents can affect finish and color of
Yes
aluminum.
Do not wash disposable aluminum pans in the dishwasher. These might
No
shift during washing and transfer black marks to dishes and other items.
Wash bottles and cans by hand. Labels attached with glue can loosen and
No
clog the wash system and reduce washing performance.
No
Seasoning will be removed and the cookware will rust.
Always check manufacturer's recommendations before washing.
Yes
Antique, hand-painted, or over-the-glaze patterns may fade. Gold leaf
can discolor or fade.
Always check manufacturer's recommendations before washing. Some
Yes
types of leaded crystal can etch with repeated washing.
No
Gold-colored flatware will discolor.
Yes
Milk glass material yellows with repeated dishwasher washing.
Handles of some knives are attached to the blade with adhesives which
No
can loosen if washed in the dishwasher.
No
High water temperatures and detergent can discolor or pit the finish.
No
Cannot withstand high water temperatures and detergents.
Always check manufacturer's recommendations before washing. Plastic
items may vary in their ability to withstand high temperatures and
Yes
detergents. It is recommended that lightweight items such as lids and
butter dishes be placed in the top rack only. Sturdy items such as coolers
and high-chair trays may be placed in the bottom rack.
Run a rinse cycle if not washing immediately. Prolonged contact with food
Yes
containing salt, vinegar, milk products, or fruit juice can damage the finish.
Run a rinse cycle if not washing immediately. Prolonged contact with
food containing salt, acid, or sulfide (eggs, mayonnaise, and seafood)
Yes
can damage finish. Do not wash Sterling Silver silverware with Stainless
Steel silverware because electrolytic action will discolor and pit the metals
where they touch.
No
Not recommended
Wash by hand. Always check manufacturer's instructions before washing.
No
Untreated wood can warp, crack, or lose its finish.
Yes
Adjust the tines as necessary to load large dishes.
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