Whether you're the proud new owner of your first dishwasher or something of an automated cleaning aficionado, it's tempting to toss everything in there. With the summer months now here, you've more fun things to do than handwash things, right? But it's important to take a moment and consider whether the dishwasher's fierce cycles and scalding hot water are suited to all of your cookware, glassware and utensils. Putting the wrong items into even the best dishwasher can cause havoc, often wrecking them for good. For that reason, handwashing is often the way to go.
CNET
Most modern dishwashers have gentle cycles and other special settings for certain delicate cooking tools, but it may not be worth it to run an entire cycle with just a few items inside. Plus, hand washing your valuable kitchen tools and utensils doesn't take long.
In short: Utilize the dishwasher for bulk items that are dishwasher safe and keep other items out. Here are 11 things that should never go in the dishwasher.
1. Insulated mugs
Insulated mugs can be damaged by the pressure from a dishwasher. The Darling Effect
The high heat and pressure of a dishwasher can damage or break the vacuum seal that makes these insulated vessels effective. Instead, wash them by hand using warm water and soap.
2. Wooden cutting boards
Always air-dry a wood board on its side for at least an hour before storing it. David Watsky/CNET
Wood cutting boards can become damaged after even one cycle through the dishwasher. Hot water can cause even the strongest wood to warp, bend, crack or split. While plastic and stone cutting boards can typically handle the dishwasher, any wooden slab should be washed by hand and dries thoroughly on its side.
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