Things You Should Never Put in the Dishwasher

If you’re anything like me, you love the convenience of a dishwasher. After a long day, there’s something incredibly satisfying about loading it up, pressing a button, and letting the machine handle the dirty work.

But here’s the catch: not everything belongs in the dishwasher.

Putting the wrong items inside can do more than damage your favorite kitchen tools. High temperatures, powerful water jets, and strong detergents can cause warping, rust, discoloration, dullness, and even permanent damage to delicate finishes.

The good news? A little extra care can go a long way.

The golden rule is simple: when in doubt, check the manufacturer’s instructions. If an item is labeled “hand wash only,” it’s best to believe it. Dishwasher conditions are considerably more intense than washing something gently by hand.

Here are some of the most common kitchen items that deserve a little more attention.

1. Sharp Knives and Wooden Utensils

Sharp kitchen knives might seem like an obvious candidate for the dishwasher, but they’re actually better off being washed by hand.

The powerful water jets can cause knives to knock against other dishes, gradually dulling their edges. Dishwasher detergents and high temperatures can also damage wooden handles, causing them to crack, warp, or loosen over time.

There’s another issue that’s easy to overlook: safety. Reaching into a dishwasher filled with dishes and hidden knife blades can result in an accidental cut.

How to care for them

Wash knives and wooden utensils by hand using warm, soapy water. Dry them immediately afterward to prevent moisture-related damage and, in the case of certain steel knives, rust.

Store knives safely in a knife block, protective sheath, or magnetic strip. Wooden utensils can occasionally benefit from a food-safe mineral oil to keep the wood from drying out.

Even if a knife is technically labeled dishwasher-safe, hand washing is generally gentler and can help preserve its edge and finish…