Dull the blade
Chip the edge
Loosen the handle
Even high-end knives with “dishwasher-safe” labels suffer over time.
What to do:
Wash by hand with mild soap and dry immediately.
Hone regularly and store in a block or sheath.
2. Wooden Utensils & Cutting Boards
Why not?
Wood absorbs water — and the dishwasher’s heat and moisture cause it to:
Warp
Crack
Split
Lose its finish
Plus, repeated exposure can loosen glue in cutting board seams.
What to do:
Hand wash with soapy water, rinse, and dry upright.
Occasionally oil with food-grade mineral oil to keep it healthy.
3. Delicate Crystal & Fine China
Why not?
The high-pressure spray and alkaline detergents can:
Cloud crystal (permanently)
Crack fine porcelain
Fade hand-painted designs
Even “dishwasher-safe” china can degrade over time.
What to do:
Wash by hand in lukewarm water with a gentle detergent.
Use a soft sponge and air-dry on a towel.
4. Cast Iron Cookware
Why not?
The dishwasher is the arch-nemesis of seasoning.
It strips away the polymerized oil layer that makes cast iron:
Non-stick
Rust-resistant
Flavor-enhancing
After one cycle, your skillet may come out bare, rusty, and sticky.
What to do:
Clean with a brush and hot water (no soap needed).
Wipe dry, apply a thin layer of oil, and heat on the stove briefly.
5. Nonstick Pans & Cookware
Why not?
SEE NEXT PAGE
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