Can You Put Pots and Pans in the Dishwasher

By Kitchenistic

14 Nov 2019

It is true that the dishwasher can save quite some time when washing your cookware, but you should be conscious of the fact that not all utensils can go into the dishwashing machine. This article will focus on the pros and cons of putting all types of pots and pans into the dishwasher, join us to find out more.

Copper Pots And Pans

For the cookware that is made with copper material, the dishwasher is not advisable as you risk tarnishing the pot’s color and shine. Recommendations are that you wash all copper kitchenware by hand. In case your pot has acquired a burnt bottom, remedy this by sprinkling some salt on the affected area and cover it with some white vinegar. Allow to sit for fifteen seconds and proceed to scrub.

Copper Pots

Stainless Steel Pots And Pans

According to the experts, exposing your stainless steel pots and pans to the dishwasher is quite safe – but you need to adhere to a few cautions. Dishwashers come with excessive humidity that is capable of corroding the metal, but when you wash with hand, you will be in a better position to control the temperature of your washing water. For stainless steel pots and pans that are stained, it is better to play safe by hand-washing them. However, those who don’t have the time to wash their cookware by hand can use the dishwasher, but only if the manual says it is safe. But then, you should ensure that there is enough space between the pots and other items inside to prevent scratching, and also ensure that they are properly washed and dried.

Aluminum Pots And Pans

It may not always be safe to wash your aluminum pots and pans with the dishwasher. However, go through the manufacturer’s manual to see whether they are dishwasher safe or not. If the instructions happen to recommend the dishwasher, then you can go ahead. However, the material that aluminum pots are made of has the propensity to scratch; you have to be sure to remove any other cookware and cutleries that may balance against your aluminum pots. In the long run, you may discover that your pots have developed a dull finish, so even if the manual says it is dishwasher safe, you should try alternating it with handwashing from time to time. Do this to retain the gleam a bit longer.

Cast Iron Pots And Pans

Cast iron has never been considered as part of dishwasher safe pots and pans; thus, they should never go inside. The conditions in the interior of any operative dishwater can be rather hot, as well as wet and this is not good for the cast iron cookware. It will only result in rust on the long run and wash away the protective coating, consequently, wash your cast iron kitchenware by hand.

Non-Stick Pots And Pans

The issue of using the dishwasher for our non-stick pans and pots is quite debatable. It is a common practice among manufacturers of non-stick cookware to recommend the dishwasher for cleaning their products as their labels always carry the dishwasher safe message. However, many who have used these pots and pans over time have discovered that the rather harsh process that these kitchen wares pass through in the dishwasher wears the non-stick coating away as time rolls by; thus they advise against it.

Their recommendation is to wash them by hand with a small quantity of soap so that the pots can retain some oil which, according to them, helps the pans in remaining non-stick. Many have attested to the fact that their non-stick pots and pans become quite sticky after they have exposed them to the harsh process of the dishwasher. Apart from the pots losing their non-stick quality, they are known to hold onto odor, unlike the normal stainless steel pots. It is common knowledge that several dishwasher soaps are very strong scented and your pans will readily retain the scent, thus, transfer it over to food once it gets heated up.

Another reason to avoid the dishwasher with your non-stick cookware is that dishwashers are known to be really harsh while in use, knocking every item around. For pots and pans that come equipped with sturdy handles, this shouldn’t pose any problems. However, strong handles have been found to become loose after undergoing several bouts inside a dishwasher.

Non-Stick Pots And Pans

What To Put In The Dishwasher

Now people who make use of pots and pans should be able to know which can go into the dishwasher and which should not. Always remember to scrutinize the manufacturer’s manual to be sure, if it says dishwasher safe, then it shouldn’t be a problem; besides, you will be able to save some time as well as effort. Sometimes, you might just be better off washing your cookware by hand as this has been known to preserve the life span of pots and pans.