25
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 and color
of
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 the cookware 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 top rack only. Sturdy items such as coolers
and high-chair trays may be placed in the bottom rack.
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 the 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. Do not wash Sterling Silver silverware with Stainless
Steel silverware because electrolytic action will discolor and pit the metals
where they touch.
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.
Large Casserole Dish
Yes
Adjust the tines as necessary to load large dishes.
