Unsafe Utensils: Dishwasher's Dark Secrets

Not all pots and pans are dishwasher-safe. Some materials, such as cast iron, steel, tin, non-anodized aluminium, and copper, are susceptible to rusting, dulling, scratching, or tarnishing if washed in the dishwasher. Non-stick coatings can also be damaged by the dishwasher's high-pressure wash, and even ceramic pots and pans can deteriorate over time due to exposure to certain detergents. To avoid potential damage, it is recommended to hand-wash these items and always check for dishwasher-safe markings before putting any cookware in the dishwasher.

Non-stick pans

Dishwasher-Safe Non-Stick Pans

Some non-stick pans are designed to be dishwasher-safe, but this does not mean they should be routinely washed in the dishwasher. The high temperatures, harsh detergents, and abrasive utensils in a dishwasher can still negatively impact the performance and lifespan of these pans. Even if the packaging states that a non-stick pan is dishwasher-safe, it is advisable to follow the manufacturer's care instructions and hand wash whenever possible.

Hand Washing Non-Stick Pans

Hand washing non-stick pans is the recommended method to preserve their coating and performance. When hand washing, it is important to use gentle tools such as soft sponges or dishcloths. Avoid using steel wool, coarse brushes, or abrasive sponges as they can easily scratch the surface. Regular dish soap is mild enough for non-stick pans, and a soft scrub should be sufficient for most messes. For tougher, burnt-on residue, a mixture of water, baking soda, and vinegar can be used after initially scrubbing with dish soap and water.

Performance and Lifespan

The performance and lifespan of non-stick pans depend on proper care and maintenance. While some non-stick coatings are guaranteed for the life of the pan, others may require extra care to maintain their performance. If the performance of a PTFE-based non-stick pan declines, scrubbing the surface vigorously with a scrubby sponge and hot, soapy water can help remove residue buildup and restore some of the non-stick properties.

Myths and Facts About Non-Stick Pans

There are several myths and misconceptions surrounding non-stick pans. Contrary to popular belief, non-stick pans can be put in the dishwasher if they have reputable Teflon™ non-stick coatings and are dishwasher-safe according to the manufacturer's instructions. However, this does not mean they should be routinely washed in the dishwasher due to the potential impact on their performance and lifespan. Additionally, while non-stick coatings may wear off over time, some coatings are engineered to resist chipping, peeling, and flaking, providing long-lasting performance.

Cast iron

The dishwasher's water jets and harsh detergents strip away the seasoning that may have taken years to build up. The heat-dry setting also tends to leave moisture behind, which can cause rusting. Therefore, cast iron pans should be hand-washed.

To clean a cast iron pan, start by scraping any loosely attached food scraps from the pan using a metal spatula. Avoid soaking the pan in the sink as prolonged exposure to water will cause rusting. Mild dish soap and warm water can be used, along with a sponge or stiff brush. For stuck-on food, scrub the pan with a paste of kosher salt and water. Dry the pan with a towel or on the stove using low heat. Apply a thin layer of vegetable oil to the inside of the pan and buff it off with a cloth or paper towel.

Steel and tin

Pots and pans made from certain metal materials, such as cast iron, steel, and tin, are susceptible to rusting and should not be cleaned in the dishwasher. It is recommended that these items are hand-washed instead.

While stainless steel items are usually deemed dishwasher-safe, it is important to check for a stamp on the bottom of your cookware to confirm that it is safe to put in the dishwasher. If you are unsure, you can also check the original packaging or the manufacturer's website.

If your steel or tin pots and pans are dishwasher-safe, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, skip the pre-scrubbing as it is unnecessary and saves both time and water. Secondly, refer to your owner's manual for instructions on how to load your pots and pans into the dishwasher. Most machines work best when cookware is placed mess-side down on the bottom rack. Finally, if your dishwasher has a pots and pans setting, use that. If not, select the longest cycle to give baked-on food some extra attention.

Non-anodized aluminium

The high heat inside the dishwasher is necessary for melting the detergent and removing grease and grime, but when combined with the harsh dishwashing detergent, it can leave cloudy stains on aluminium pans that are very hard to remove. The alkalinity of the detergent can also cause white spotting on the surface of the aluminium cookware.

Hand-painted or embellished ceramic

Even glazed ceramics may not be dishwasher-safe. The detergents used in dishwashers are a lot harsher than regular dishwashing liquid, and combined with very high water temperatures, they can cause the glaze to wear off over time.

Therefore, it is generally recommended to hand-wash hand-painted or embellished ceramic items to avoid potential damage.

Frequently asked questions