If you have doubts about washing a particular item,
check with the manufacturer to see if it is
dishwasher safe.
Material Dishwasher safe?/Comments
Aluminium Yes
High water temperature and
detergents can affect finish of
anodized aluminium.
Disposable No
Aluminium Do not wash throwaway
aluminium pans in the
dishwasher. These might shift
during washing and transfer
black marks to dishes and other
items.
Bottles and Cans No
Wash bottles and cans by hand.
Labels attached with glue can
loosen and clog the spray arm or
pump and reduce washing
performance.
Cast Iron No
‘Seasoning’ will be removed and
the iron will rust.
China/Stoneware Yes
Always check manufacturer’s
recommendations before
washing. Antique, hand-painted
or over-the-glaze patterns may
fade. Gold leaf can discolour or
fade.
Crystal Yes
Check manufacturer’s
recommendations before
washing. Some types of lead
crystal can etch with repeated
Gold No
Gold-coloured flatware will
discolour.
Glass Yes
Milk glass yellows with repeated
dishwasher washing.
Material Dishwasher safe?/Comments
Hollow-Handle No
Knives Handles of some knives are
attached to the blade with
adhesives which can loosen if
washed in the dishwasher.
Pewter, Brass, No
Bronze High water temperatures and
detergent can discolour or pit
the finish.
Disposable No
Plastics Cannot withstand high water
temperatures and detergents.
Plastics Yes
Always check manufacturer’s
recommendations before
washing. Plastics vary in their
capacity to withstand high
temperatures and detergents.
Load plastics in top rack only.
Stainless Steel Yes
Run a rinse cycle if not washing
immediately.
Prolonged contact with food
containing salt, vinegar, milk
products or fruit juice can
damage finish.
Sterling Silver or Yes
Silver Plate Run a rinse cycle if not washing
immediately.
Prolonged contact with food
containing salt, acid or sulfide
(eggs, mayonnaise and seafood)
can damage finish.
Tin No
Can rust
Wooden Ware No
Wash by hand. Always check.
Untreated wood can warp,
crack or lose its finish
Washing special items
13
