17
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 throwaway 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 spray arms or pump and reduce washing performance.
Cast Iron
No
Seasoning will be removed, and 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 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
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 light 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 recommended that an air dry be used.
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, and seafood) can
damage finish.
Tin
No
Can rust.
Wooden Ware
No
Wash by hand. Always check manufacturer’s instructions before washing.
Untreated wood can warp, crack, or lose its finish.
