What Can You Put in the Dishwasher? A Complete Guide

Not sure if something is dishwasher safe? You're not alone. While dishwashers are incredibly convenient, not everything belongs inside one. Here's a comprehensive guide to what's safe to put in the dishwasher — and what to hand wash instead.

Generally Dishwasher Safe ✅

Everyday Dishes and Glassware

• Ceramic and porcelain plates, bowls, and mugs — safe unless hand-painted or gilded with gold/silver trim
• Tempered glass (everyday drinking glasses, glass storage containers) — safe on the top rack
• Stainless steel cutlery — safe, but remove promptly after the cycle to prevent water spots
• Stainless steel pots and pans — generally safe, but check manufacturer guidelines; high heat can affect some finishes

Plastics (Top Rack Only)

• BPA-free plastic containers marked "dishwasher safe" — top rack only to avoid warping from bottom rack heat
• Plastic measuring cups and spoons — top rack
• Plastic cutting boards — top rack (check for warping over time)

Cookware

• Stainless steel pots and pans — usually safe; check manufacturer guidelines
• Oven-safe glass bakeware (Pyrex, etc.) — generally safe
• Silicone bakeware and utensils — safe

Other Items

• Stainless steel water bottles (check manufacturer) — many are dishwasher safe
• Silicone kitchen tools (spatulas, tongs) — safe
• Glass food storage containers — safe
• Stainless steel travel mugs (check manufacturer) — many are top-rack safe

Check the Label First

When in doubt, look for the dishwasher-safe symbol on the bottom of the item — usually a plate or glass with water droplets or wavy lines. If there's no symbol and no guidance, hand wash to be safe.

NOT Dishwasher Safe ❌

• Cast iron — destroys the seasoning and causes rust
• Wooden items (cutting boards, spoons, bowls) — warps, cracks, and splits
• Non-stick pans — degrades the coating over time
• Copper cookware and mugs — discolors and damages the finish
• Crystal glassware — can etch, cloud, and crack
• Hand-painted or gilded dishes — the decoration washes off
• Sharp knives — dulls the blade and can damage the dishwasher
• Aluminum cookware — can discolor and pit
• Insulated travel mugs (unless labeled safe) — can damage the vacuum seal

Use the Right Detergent for Best Results

For everything that IS dishwasher safe, use a quality detergent to get the best clean. The Finish Powerball Dishwasher Pods (amzn.to/3RE929j) are plastic-free, pre-measured, and deliver reliable cleaning for everyday loads. Add Amazon Basics Rinse Aid (amzn.to/4v4Ts5b) to prevent water spots and improve drying.

Keep Your Dishwasher Clean

A clean dishwasher cleans dishes better. Run a monthly cleaning cycle with Affresh Dishwasher Cleaner Tablets (amzn.to/42P5MKQ) to remove limescale, mineral deposits, and odor-causing bacteria from the pump and hoses.

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