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