Washing Pans In The Dishwasher: A Step-By-Step Guide

Whether you're an amateur chef or a full-time professional, cleaning pots and pans is a necessary chore. Grease, sauce, and food residue can leave nasty stains on pans that can build up if not tackled quickly. While the dishwasher is an excellent time-saver when it comes to washing dishes, not all pots and pans are dishwasher-safe. The material and coating of the cookware play a crucial role in determining if it can be placed in the dishwasher. For example, cast iron pots and pans should never be put in the dishwasher as the hot and wet environment will cause them to rust and wash away the seasoning. Similarly, copper pots and pans should be avoided in the dishwasher as they will lose their shine and colour. On the other hand, stainless steel pots and pans are generally considered safe for the dishwasher, but it's important to keep them away from dishes made of materials that could cause scratches.

Stainless steel pans are dishwasher-safe but separate from other dishes to avoid scratches

Stainless steel pans are dishwasher-safe, but there are a few things to keep in mind to avoid scratches and other types of damage. Firstly, check the bottom of your pan for a stamp that indicates whether it is dishwasher-safe. If you're unsure, refer to the original packaging or the manufacturer's website.

When loading your dishwasher, always separate stainless steel pans from other dishes, especially those made of materials that could cause scratches. Place the pans on the bottom rack of the dishwasher, with the messy side facing down, to ensure the spray jets can effectively clean them. Avoid overcrowding the dishwasher, as this can lead to trapped spray arms and leaks. Instead, use the dishwasher tines to separate items and ensure optimal cleaning.

While stainless steel is a durable material, it is prone to scratches and corrosion over time due to high temperatures and humidity. Therefore, it is recommended to hand wash stainless steel pans whenever possible to prolong their lifespan and maintain their performance and appearance. If you choose to hand wash, use mild dish soap and a soft sponge or scrub brush for tough messes. To keep your pans polished, you can also use a powdered stainless steel cleaner.

Cast iron pans should never go in the dishwasher as it ruins the coating and causes rust

When it comes to cleaning your pans, a dishwasher can be a real timesaver. However, it's important to know which pans are dishwasher-safe and which are not. Cast iron pans, for example, should never go in the dishwasher as it can ruin the coating and cause rust.

Cast iron is one of the toughest materials used for kitchen tools, but its enemy is excess moisture. The hot, wet environment of a dishwasher is detrimental to cast iron and will lead to rust. The protective coat of cast iron pans will be destroyed by the dishwasher's water jets and harsh detergents, stripping away the seasoning—that layer of oil that, when cooked into the iron, stops food from sticking to the pan.

If you put a cast iron pan in the dishwasher, you'll need to re-season it before you use it again. First, you'll need to remove the rust using vinegar, baking soda, coarse salt, or steel wool. Then, you'll need to re-season the pan by rubbing oil into it and cooking it in the oven at a low heat for an hour.

To avoid damaging your cast iron pans, it's best to wash them by hand with warm water and a mild dishwashing soap. Cast iron pans should never be washed with soap or detergents as these will break down the oils in the pan. Instead, wipe out the pan with a paper towel or wash it with a dishcloth and warm, soapy water.

Non-stick pans are not always dishwasher-safe, check instructions first

Non-stick pans are not always dishwasher-safe. Before placing your non-stick pans in the dishwasher, it is important to check the instructions provided by the manufacturer. While some non-stick pans are designed to be dishwasher-safe, others may require hand washing to maintain their performance and longevity.

Dishwasher detergents and high water temperatures can affect the non-stick coating of your pans over time. This can reduce the effectiveness and lifespan of the coating, leading to a decline in performance. Therefore, it is recommended to hand wash non-stick pans with hot soapy water to preserve their coating and maintain their non-stick properties for longer.

Additionally, some non-stick pans may have specific instructions or recommendations regarding the use of detergents and cleaning methods. It is important to follow these instructions to ensure the longevity of your non-stick pans.

By following the manufacturer's instructions and taking proper care of your non-stick pans, you can ensure they remain in good condition and provide years of cooking enjoyment.

Copper pans will lose their shine and colour in the dishwasher

Copper pans are a beautiful addition to any kitchen, but they require special care to maintain their shine and colour. Unfortunately, one place they do not belong is in the dishwasher. The harshness of the dishwasher detergent will cause copper pans to tarnish and dull, resulting in a loss of shine and colour.

Copper is a soft metal that can be easily scratched, so placing copper pans in the dishwasher will likely lead to them clanking against other items and getting damaged. The high temperatures and humidity of the dishwasher can also cause corrosion over time, further dulling the copper's shine. Therefore, it is always best to hand wash copper pans with a soft cloth and a standard detergent.

If you do find that your copper pans have lost their lustre, there are a few ways to try and restore their shine. One method is to use a copper pot polish, which can be purchased from most supermarkets. Another option is to create a paste made from lemon juice or vinegar and baking soda and gently rub it onto the copper with a soft cloth.

To prevent your copper pans from losing their shine and colour, it is important to follow a few simple care instructions. Always wait for the pan to cool down before cleaning and avoid using abrasive cleaners. For stubborn food residues, soak the pan in warm soapy water and then gently remove the marks with a soft cloth. You can also purchase copper cleaners to help maintain the colour of the pan.

In summary, while copper pans are stunning and functional, they require a bit of extra care to keep them in top condition. Hand washing and gentle polishing are the best ways to maintain their shine and colour, so leave them out of the dishwasher!

Aluminium pans are dishwasher-safe but separate to avoid scratches and dulling

Aluminium pans are often dishwasher-safe, but there are a few things to keep in mind to avoid scratches and dulling. Firstly, separate your aluminium pans from other dishes in the dishwasher to avoid scratches. This is because aluminium is a soft metal that can be scratched by harder materials. Place aluminium items away from stainless steel, cast iron, and other materials that could cause abrasion.

Additionally, it's a good idea to avoid overcrowding the dishwasher. Leave space between items to prevent them from knocking into each other and potentially causing scratches. You can also place aluminium pans in the dishwasher separately to avoid contact with other items.

Another factor to consider is the finish of your aluminium pans. Aluminium is prone to discolouration and can develop a dull finish over time if washed in the dishwasher too frequently. To maintain the natural finish of your pans, alternate between handwashing and using the dishwasher.

When placing aluminium pans in the dishwasher, follow the manufacturer's instructions and recommendations. Some aluminium cookware, such as anodized aluminium, is designed to be dishwasher-safe and can be safely washed in the machine. However, other types of aluminium, such as pressed and cast aluminium, are not dishwasher-safe and should be washed by hand. Always check the care instructions provided by the manufacturer before washing aluminium pans in the dishwasher.

Finally, if you choose to wash your aluminium pans in the dishwasher, pay attention to the placement within the machine. Place the pans in the back of the bottom rack, angled downward and facing the centre of the dishwasher. This ensures effective cleaning, proper drainage, and helps prevent leaks.

Frequently asked questions