Not all utensils can simply be "thrown into the machine and be done." The three most troublesome items for new dishwasher users are burnt pots, crystal glasses, and non-stick pans. Each type has its own rules. This article provides instructions on how to properly handle them to ensure clean dishes without damaging items.
I. Washing burnt pots, scorched rice, and burnt pan bottoms
1. Assessment before putting into the machine
- Check the bottom of the pot for a "Dishwasher safe" logo. If not → hand wash.
- Aluminum pots: should not be machine washed (they can blacken and oxidize).
- Cast iron pots: do not machine wash (they can rust).
- Stainless steel pots, induction-compatible pots: suitable for machine washing.
2. The "pre-soak" technique
Burnt pots should be soaked for 30 minutes before putting them in the dishwasher:
- Pour warm water + 1 Largo All In One tablet + 1 spoon of baking soda into the pot.
- Place on the stove and gently heat for 5 minutes to break down the burnt residue.
- Turn off the heat, and soak for an additional 20-30 minutes.
- Lightly scrape off the burnt residue at the bottom with a plastic spatula.
- Place in the dishwasher with another Largo tablet and run the Intensive 70°C program.
3. Correct loading method
Place the pot upside down (bottom facing up) on the lower rack, in a position with direct spray.
II. Washing crystal glasses, thin glassware
1. "Double risk" of crystal glasses
Crystal glasses face 2 risks when machine washed:
- Thermal shock: sudden temperature changes can cause cracks/breakage.
- Corrosion: the alkaline detergents in dishwasher tablets can cause crystal to lose its shine over time (permanently cloudy).
2. Rules for washing crystal glasses
- Use the Glass / Crystal program if your machine has one (~45°C, gentle).
- If not, choose Eco 50°C, DO NOT use Intensive.
- Use Largo All In One because its formula contains glass protection.
- Mandatory to fill with salt and rinse aid.
3. How to load glasses
- Load glasses on the upper rack, mouth down.
- Maintain a "1-finger" distance between glasses.
- Racks with silicone glass holders (most machines have them) help secure the glass stems.

4. Expensive crystal glasses (Riedel, Schott Zwiesel, Baccarat)
For high-end crystal glassware (over 1 million VND/piece), hand washing is recommended. The magical glass protection in the tablets only slows down the corrosion process, it does not eliminate it.
III. Washing non-stick pans
1. Risks of non-stick pans in the dishwasher
The non-stick coating (Teflon/PTFE, ceramic) can be:
- Gradually corroded by alkaline detergents in the tablet.
- Scratched due to contact with other items in the rack.
- Peeled off at high temperatures (Intensive 70°C cycle).
2. When CAN non-stick pans be machine washed?
- The manufacturer clearly states "Dishwasher safe" (check the bottom or instructions).
- New pan, intact coating.
- Occasionally washed, not daily.
3. Rules for washing
- Wipe off grease with a paper towel first to reduce the load on the machine.
- Select the ECO 50°C program, DO NOT use Intensive.
- Use Largo Classic (gentler) instead of All In One if used frequently.
- Place the pan face down, in a separate area without stacking other items.
4. When NOT to wash?
- Pans with scratched/peeled coating.
- Old pans over 3-5 years.
- Pans with wooden handles or exposed screws.
IV. List of special items and washing rules
| Item | Machine washable? | Program | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stainless steel pots | ✅ Yes | ECO/Intensive | Load upside down, well-spaced |
| Non-stick pots | ⚠️ Conditional | ECO | Check logo |
| Aluminum pots | ❌ No | – | Hand wash |
| Cast iron/Ductile iron pots | ❌ No | – | Rusts |
| High-end crystal glasses | ❌ Avoid | – | Hand wash |
| Regular glassware | ✅ Yes | ECO/Glass | Load on upper rack |
| Sheathed sharp knives | ⚠️ Conditional | ECO | Cutlery tray, blade down |
| European kitchen knives | ❌ No | – | Hand wash |
| Wooden cutting boards | ❌ No | – | Hand wash |
| Plastic cutting boards | ✅ Yes | ECO | Load upright |
| Baby milk bottles | ✅ Yes | Glass/Baby (if available) | Remove silicone valve |
| Ceramic bowls, lacquerware | ❌ No | – | Lacquer peels off |
V. General tips for "hard-to-wash" items
- Pre-treat manually: wipe off grease, remove large food scraps.
- Pre-soak for stubborn stains.
- Choose the right detergent: Largo All In One for tough stains, Largo Classic for delicate items.
- Full salt + rinse aid: reduces corrosion.
- Load sparsely: no stacking, do not block spray arms.
- Choose the correct program: ECO for delicate items, Intensive for heavily soiled stainless steel.
VI. Conclusion
Dishwashers can still handle special items – but with specific rules. Largo dishwasher tablets imported from Germany with a balanced pH formula help protect your items better, but you should still follow the usage rules. Invest in a complete set of supplies from the beginning:
→ Largo 3-item combo – 555,000đ – lasts 2-3 months, includes protection for crystal glasses and stainless steel.