The dishwasher is a staple in many homes, a real time saver that makes daily chores feel a little lighter. People love loading dirty dishes and letting the machine do the hard work, but it pays to handle this appliance with care. A few missteps can turn a helpful helper into a source of trouble. Here is a practical guide to avoid common mistakes before they lead to bigger problems.
Not everything in the kitchen is dishwasher safe. In fact, there are plenty of items that can tolerate a wash cycle, while others will suffer or even be ruined. A surprising number of objects should not go inside the dishwasher, and many cooks still slide them in by habit. The reason is simple: high temperatures, strong detergents, and buzzing water jets can harm some materials and finishes. Understanding what can and cannot withstand a dishwasher helps protect belongings and keeps the appliance running smoothly.
Wooden utensils are a frequent casualty. Harsh detergents and hot water can soak into the grain, causing warping and splitting, and the finish on wooden tools may deteriorate. The result is not just a scratched surface but potential contamination of foods prepared with those utensils. Even items that seem sturdy can suffer when exposed to repeated dishwasher cycles. The same caution applies to certain metal finishes that may tarnish or corrode over time if exposed too often to the heat and chemicals.
Another classic offender is the moka pot used for brewing coffee. The aluminum and seals can absorb flavors and detergents, altering the brew and shortening the pot’s lifespan. It is best washed by hand with plain water, avoiding detergents and leaving the pot to air dry. If a moka pot isn’t performing as it used to, mineral buildup may be the culprit, and a simple descaling can help restore flavor without risking damage from a dishwasher.
Delicate glassware deserves special care. Thin glasses can crack under the force of the water jet or shift during the cycle. When glassware collides with other dishes, even sturdy dishes can suffer and chips or breaks can occur. Residues from detergents may also settle inside fine rims, and pipes or filters in the machine can become clogged from stubborn residues. It is wise to wash delicate glass by hand or use a gentler, lower-pressure setting if the dishwasher offers such an option.
In short, certain components are best kept out of the dishwasher to prevent damage to belongings and to avoid costly repairs to the appliance itself. When in doubt, consult the user manual for a list of dishwasher-safe items and recommended care practices. Proper loading and cautious choices protect both the customer’s belongings and the appliance for longer, more dependable use.
wash the dishes
Even with a dishwasher in the home, there are moments when hands still feel needed for certain items. The question often arises about washing glasses in the machine. The upper rack, which is typically used for cups and smaller glassware, might not provide enough clearance when tall glasses are placed in the lower rack. This mismatch increases the risk of breakage during the cycle.
Many machines feature a small adjustment option on the side of the top rack. When activated, this adjustment lowers the top rack slightly, creating extra height and allowing tall glasses to fit securely without rubbing against other items. This convenient feature is familiar to many dishwasher owners and can be a simple fix for tall glassware. By using this adjustment, users can protect fragile pieces while still enjoying the convenience of a fully loaded machine.