Stainless steel dishwashers are a great choice for the kitchen of your home to the kitchen of a five-star restaurant. They are superheroes of durability and strength. But one question that often arises is whether or not they are safe to use. The excellent tiding is that, yes, stainless steel dishwashers are safe to use. Stainless steel dishwashers are not only substantial but are also highly safe for your dishware, easy to maintain, and add charm to your kitchen with their sleek appearance.
One thing to keep in mind is that stainless steel dishwashers can be prone to scratches if they are not maintained properly. So proper cleaning and handling are a must for their longevity.
This article will guide you completely about stainless steel dishwashers.
How do dishwashers clean cookware and appliances?
Dishwashers clean cookware and appliances by the amalgamation of heat, detergent, and water pressure to remove grime and food particles effectively.
Here are the steps on how dishwashers clean cookware and appliances;
- Firstly the dishwasher is filled with hot water.
- The hot water is then mixed with dishwashing detergent. This detergent is highly effective in cleaning food particles.
- Then cookware and appliances are put in the dishwashers and the machine starts a cleaning cycle.
- During the first cycle, the cookware and appliances are sprayed with hot water and detergents to remove large food particles.
- During the second cycle high pressure hot water and detergent are sprayed on cookware or appliances to remove tiny food particles, grime, and grease.
- In the final step, cookware and appliances are rinsed with hot water and then are completely dried either by heat drying or air drying.
Types of detergents used in dishwashers
Various types of specially manufactured dishwasher detergents are available in the market and each of them has its specific uses.
Some commonly used dishwasher detergents are;
- Powder detergents: They are traditionally used and the most affordable type of dishwasher detergent.
- Liquid detergents: Liquid detergents are easy to use and have high cleaning power.
- Gel detergents: They have a gel-like consistency. They are the most expensive and usually comes in bottle packing.
- Eco-friendly detergents: Eco-friendly dishware detergents are very popular nowadays because they are environmentally friendly and safe to use.
What type of stainless steel cannot go in dishwashers?
Dishwashers use high-pressure hot water and detergents for cleaning, so some types of stainless steel are not recommended for use in dishwashers as they can be damaged or decolorized. One of the types of stainless steel which are not recommended to use in the dishwasher is high-carbon stainless steel. It is more brittle than other types of stainless steel and can be damaged in dishwashers due to the effect of detergents.
How to clean stainless steel dishwasher?
It is important to clean the stainless steel dishwasher properly to maintain its sleeky shiny appearance and to increase its life.
Here are the steps you need to follow for cleaning the stainless steel dishwasher;
- Use a sponge and wipe down all food particles from the inside of the dishwasher.
- Now spray any cleaning solution or detergent completely on the dishwasher including racks, doors, and interior surfaces.
- Use any toothbrush or scrub brush and scrub all stains, grime, and grease.
- After scrubbing wipe down all the detergent using any clean cloth.
- Run an empty dishwasher cycle on the hottest setting for final cleaning.
- Now dry the dishwasher thoroughly and your cleaning is done.
Possible problems you can enter while dishwashing stainless steel
While dishwashing stainless steel you may enter the following problems;
- The use of high water pressure and harsh detergents can result in water spots and stains on dishes.
- Dishes or cookware can get scratches or dents if not placed properly on the racks.
- Using too little detergent or an overloaded dishwasher results in failure to clean dishes properly.
Can we clean stainless steel cookware without a dishwasher?
Yes, we can clean stainless steel cookware without a dishwasher by hand.
Following are the steps to wash stainless steel cookware without a dishwasher;
- Soak cookware in warm water for a few minutes.
- Use any dish wash soap and a sponge to scrub cookware. Scrub all stains properly.
- After scrubbing is done wash the cookware with water and dry them completely.
Things you can wash in a dishwasher
Things that you can easily wash in a dishwasher include;
- Stainless steel items.
- Glassware.
- Cookware.
- Silverware.
- Kitchen tools like measuring cups and mixing bowls.
Things you can’t wash in a dishwasher
Some of the commonly used things that you should not wash in a dishwasher are;
- Cast iron cookware.
- Wooden utensils.
- Plastic or rubber pots.
- Sharp knives.
- Items with electronic parts and made of delicate materials.
Why can’t stainless steel cups/travel mugs can’t go in the dishwasher?
Stainless steel cups and travel mugs can’t go in the dishwasher because they are mostly heat sensitive and dishwashers use hot water and harsh detergents that can damage them. Also, steel cups and travel mugs have special lids that cannot withstand high water pressure.
Are stainless steel pans dishwasher safe?
Mostly stainless steel pans are dishwasher safe. But special care should be taken to avoid any damage. Place pans on the topmost rank of the dishwasher away from the heating element. Always use mild detergents for stainless steel pans and dry them immediately to protect their shine.
How to clean stainless steel water bottles in the dishwasher?
Here are some tips you need to follow while washing stainless steel water bottles in a dishwasher;
- Empty the bottles and rinse them with tap water.
- Place them on the top rack of the dishwasher to prevent heat damage.
- Use mild detergents, wash them on a normal cycle and dry them completely.
Can we clean stainless steel silverware in a dishwasher?
Yes, we can clean stainless steel silverware in dishwashers easily. But for their safe and effective cleaning, we should make sure that the water temperature is not too high. Don’t use harsh detergents for stainless steel silverware.
Can we clean stainless steel-made cheese grates, spatulas, and other cookware in a dishwasher?
Yes, we can clean stainless steel-made cheese grates, spatulas, and other cookware in dishwashers. But for their proper and safe cleaning, we should use mild detergents and run them on the normal cycle.
Is stainless steel bakeware safe for the dishwasher?
Yes, stainless steel bakeware is safe to use in a dishwasher. But you should check the manufacturer’s recommendation before putting stainless steel bakeware in your dishwasher.
Can you put cuisinart knives in the dishwasher?
Cuisinart knives can be put in the dishwasher but it is generally not recommended. Harsh detergents used in dishwashers can damage the knife’s blade and can also reduce its longevity.
Is 18/10 stainless steel dishwasher safe?
18/10 stainless steel is made up of 18% chromium and 10% nickel. Dishwashers made of 18/10 stainless steel are considered safe to use because they are highly rust and corrosion-resistant and are best known for their effective cleaning.
Can metal go in the dishwasher?
Not all metal items are safe to use in dishwashers. Stainless steel, aluminum, and silverware are safe to use but cast iron cookware, non-stick cookware, and copper cookware are not considered safe to use in dishwashers. Always check the manufacturer’s recommendation while using any metal in the dishwashers.
Is it bad to put the knives in the dishwasher?
Washing knives in a dishwasher is usually not recommended. Dishwashers use high water pressures and strong detergents which can damage the blade of knives or can reduce their effectiveness.
Can dents be removed from stainless steel appliances?
Yes, dents can be removed from the surface of stainless steel but the success of the mission depends on the severity of the dent. For removing dents from the surface of stainless steel you can use a hair dryer, plunger, vacuum, or dent puller, or can also hire a professional.
Is discolored stainless steel safe?
Discolored stainless steel does not cause any health hazards and is also safe to use in the dishwasher. But it is good to clean its surface properly before placing it in the dishwasher.
Is 304 stainless steel dishwasher safe?
304 stainless steel is the most commonly used type of steel. 304 stainless steel dishwasher is highly safe to use because it is highly durable and heat and corrosion-resistant. But like other stainless steel dishwashers, it also needs proper cleaning and maintenance.
Is it bad to wash pans in the dishwasher?
It depends on the type of pan and material it is made of. Copper pans, cast iron, and non-stick pans are not safe to wash in the dishwasher because they can be damaged by the action of detergents. On the other hand, stainless steel pans and aluminum pans are safe to use in the dishwasher because they are highly resistant and durable.
