The ultimate list of what you can and can't put in your dishwasher

Gourmandize

If you have a dishwasher at home, then it's probably your best friend. 

Over the last few years, they've become more effective, more silent and more eco-friendly.  That said, there are certain things that you can put in there (and most definitely should!), while there are others that could seriously damage it. 

As a general rule, make sure to check what the dishwasher instructions are for each of your utensils before you put them through the wash.

And if you happened to throw away the instructions, then don't worry, just follow our guide!

You absolutely CAN throw in the dishwasher:  

• Any ceramic dishware (plates, bowls, mugs, cups etc)
• Glasses
• Everyday silverware (metal or stainless steel)
• Glass or metal bowls
• Stainless steel pots and pans (without a non-stick coating)
• Silicon utensils (spatulas, brushes, cake pans etc)
• Metal cake pans (without a non-stick coating)
• Plastic dishwasher-friendly/dishwasher-safe utensils
• Brushes and sponges

You should AVOID putting:  

• Iron cookware because they risk getting rusty. Once in a while won't hurt, but it's a definite no-no on a regular basis.
• Any cookware with a non-stick coating, like Teflon. 

And here's what you should NEVER EVER put in your dishwasher:  

• Silverware
• Dishware or silverware with a silver or gold border
• Wooden or bamboo utensils (chopsticks, wooden spoons, cutting boards etc.)
• Chef's knives
• Copper utensils
• Aluminum utensils (for example, the bowl in your rice cooker)

• Enamel cookware
• Disposable plastic objects like takeaway cartons, plastic plates, etc.
• Clay pots 

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