The debate about what can and can't go in the dishwasher is one that happens frequently in homes across the UK. Households are divided over whether that wooden spoon or saucepan can safely go in the dishwasher, or whether it's better to roll up your sleeves and tackle it with washing up liquid instead.
That's why I contacted household experts to find out the truth once and for all. I spoke to two experts about what items fare best and worst in the dishwasher - and they both agreed there needs to be sound ground rules put in place. Appliance technician David Miloshev from Fantastic Services said the high heat and strong detergent in dishwashers can spell disaster for some more delicate kitchen items.
He said: "Wooden items such as cutting boards and spoons absorb water, which makes them swell, crack, warp and eventually split when they dry out."
Another thing that should never go in the dishwasher is your sharp kitchen knives. If you've shelled out some serious cash on a good set of knives, make sure you take care of them properly and hand wash them every time. If you put them in the dishwasher, you'll find they go blunt quickly. David said: "The heat and detergent dull the blades quickly and the force of the water spray can knock them against racks, chipping the edge or damaging the dishwasher interior."
Cast iron cookware also needs to be handwashed, as the detergent in the dishwasher can strip away the seasoning on the pan and lead it to rusting - often beyond repair.
The same is true for non-stick pans, as over time the dishwasher will strip their coating and render them useless.
Fine crystal, delicate glassware and good china plates should also be handwashed. David said these are especially vulnerable because the high heat and detergent can cause fine cracks that will weaken them over time or cause clouding on the glass.
Insulated travel mugs and flasks should also be handwashed. David said: "The water can seep into the sealed layers, ruining their ability to retain heat and sometimes causing unpleasant odours. Items with glued parts, printed designs or decorative finishes often fade, peel or come apart because the dishwasher heat softens the adhesives and strips the coatings."
Ian Palmer-Smith, appliance repair expert at Domestic & General, said that care needs to be taken when you load the dishwasher to prevent damage.
He said: "If your utensils settle together in your machine, they likely won't be cleaned properly. It's best to place your knives with the handles up to protect your fingers from the blades. Then, placing your forks and spoons handles up will ensure that they are cleaned properly and don't end up nesting together."
Items that should never go in the dishwasher
Wooden items
Sharp kitchen knives
Cast iron cookware
Non-stick cookware
Fine crystal, glass or china
Insulated travel mugs
Anything with glued parts, decorative finishes or printed designs
