10 Items That Could Clog or Damage Your Dishwasher
10 Common Items that Could Damage or Clog Your Dishwasher
It’s undeniable that dishwashers are incredibly helpful. No matter if you had a huge family dinner or a long day at work, it’s nice to quickly load up the dishwasher and go along with your day. As easy as that may be, dishwashers are not perfect; they come with their own set of rules and limitations that you may not even have heard of that should be followed. Here are 10 things you should never put in your dishwasher to avoid clogs and blockages and to help extend the life of your dishwasher. Follow along with Joe the Plumber.
1. Don’t Trust the Plastic
While plastic cups, plates, and bowls may be ideal for kids and durability, the true test of time is the dishwasher. Remember that not all plastic dishware is made the same—some are dishwasher and microwave-proof, and some are not. If the retail box doesn’t explicitly say it’s dishwasher safe, it’s best to wash any plastic dishware by hand. Be sure to hand wash reusable plastic dishware, as well. Disposal cups, such as Solo cups, are not meant to be in the dishwasher. These disposal cups and other plastic dishware can melt inside the dishwasher, causing a huge mess and potentially even a clog. If you don’t know for sure, don’t risk it. It’s much better to be safe than sorry.
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2. Wood You Not, Please…
This might seem a bit obvious, but wood should never go into the dishwasher. That goes for wooden cutting boards, utensils, bowls, all of it. When exposed to a high level of heat, the wood can splinter and warp, causing breakage. This can lead to wood getting stuck in the filter or in the drain of your dishwasher, which can cause loads of problems later. When it comes to wood, it’s best to wash it by hand and leave them out of the dishwasher. It just isn’t worth it.
3. Insulated and Travel Mugs
Insulated and travel mugs belong on the go, not in your dishwasher! The heat from the dishwasher can damage the insulation that keeps your drink hot or cold, ruining your cup. Mold can accumulate in many travel mug lids, which is super gross and can cause you to feel sick. While some insulated travel mugs are dishwasher safe, it’s better to wash and dry them by hand. You don’t want mold right under your lips.
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4. Pretty Copper Mugs and Dishes
If you enjoy a good Moscow Mule, you probably own a copper mug at home to drink them out of. These copper mugs keep your drink very cold while also looking stylish. These mugs are made out of metal and putting copper dishware inside your dishwasher can cause the color to fade and for the dishes to rust. To avoid rust rattling around in your dishwasher, wash the copper mugs and dishes by hand. Your dishes will thank you for it!
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5. Shimmery Crystals and Gold Dishware
Gold plated and crystal dishware is very fragile and must be washed gently without any abrasion. Even though many dishwashers employ a gentle cycle, the heat and water pressure may be too much for these precious plates, causing them to break. Not only are this type of dishware usually expensive, but it is a nuisance to collect broken dishes out of the dishwasher. This can cause your dishwasher to break, which isn’t good.
6. Cast Iron Skillets
Cast iron skillets are unique pans and require unique cleaning methods, as well. Putting a cast iron skillet into the dishwasher may cause the pan to rust and strip the pan of its coating. Cast iron pans don’t need any scrubbing or harsh cleaning, which makes them ideal for a gentle handwash. Take care of your pans and your pans will take care of you!
7. Adhesives and Stickers Don’t Just Stick
It may be tempting to put a newly emptied jar of jam or salsa into the dishwasher, but don’t do it. Many containers or dishes with adhesives or stickers can cause a plethora of issues for your dishwasher. The heat from the dishwasher causes these adhesives and stickers to melt and peel right off, which can easily clog your dishwasher. Before putting any jars or containers in the dishwasher, be sure to remove any labels or stickers to prevent a headache later on.
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8. Non-Stick Pans
What makes non-stick pans so useful is the seemingly magical non-stick coating. That coating can be stripped with hot water and heat, which no longer makes the pan non-stick. To better preserve your non-stick pans, soak them first and then clean them with a non-abrasive washcloth. Once the non-stick coating is gone, it’s never coming back, so it’s best to prevent it before it happens.
9. Nice Sharp Knives
Chef knives and nice kitchen knives are often large and sharp. Most dishwashers can’t fit these knives in their compartments, but that isn’t the only reason why you shouldn’t put them in there. Dishwasher detergent is strong enough to dull your knives, weakening your knives over time. To avoid injury and to preserve your knives, wash them by hand.
10. Dishwashers are Grater Haters
Graters are incredibly useful to grate cheese and citrus, but they do not get along with dishwashers. The small, sharp holes in the graters can get plugged or weakened in the dishwasher, which in turn causes less grated food to come out on the other side and causing you to work harder. A dish brush is the best tool to clean a grater, as it won’t wear them down and make them less effective. It may be tedious, but your grater will thank you later, for sure!
Preserve Your Dishwasher or Hire a Plumber
As much as we try to take care of our appliances, everything breaks down eventually. If your dishwasher is having a hard time draining, won’t clean your dishes, or makes loud sounds during a cycle, it may be time to repair or replace your dishwasher. When it comes to plumbing or appliances, it’s best to go to a professional that has years of experience, dedication, and expertise.
Since the 1980s, Joe The Plumber has served thousands of customers throughout the years thanks to certified and trained technicians, outstanding customer care, and a wide variety of tools and resources. We pride ourselves on our work and guarantee satisfaction with every job. To schedule your appointment with Joe the Plumber, contact us right now.
