Dishwashers can wash dishes, but what about cast iron pots, non-stick pans, sharp knives, and wooden items? Here's a guide to what NOT to put in the dishwasher — to avoid damaging your kitchenware.
Do NOT wash in the dishwasher
- Non-stick pans: detergents and high heat damage the PTFE/ceramic coating.
- Uncoated cast iron pots: rust when exposed to water for extended periods.
- Sharp cutlery knives, knives with wooden handles: dull blades, cracked handles.
- Non-stick rice cooker inner pots: same as non-stick pans.
- Wooden items (cutting boards, spoons, wooden bowls): crack, warp due to heat and moisture.
- Copper, silver, pewter items: discolor, lose luster.
- Crystal / delicate glass: not heat resistant, prone to cracking.
- Soft plastics / plastic wrap: deform.
CAN wash in the dishwasher
- Stainless steel pots / pans without non-stick coating.
- Enameled cast iron pots (Le Creuset, Staub) — check manufacturer's instructions.
- Ceramic dishes, tempered glass (Pyrex, Luminarc, Bormioli).
- Hard plastics «dishwasher-safe» (place on the top rack).
- Stainless steel utensils.
Tips for washing burnt pots and pans
If you have a burnt stainless steel pot, soak it for 30 minutes before putting it in the dishwasher. The «7-in-1» formula of Largo All-in-one can even handle burnt-on food — perfect if you often cook stews.
Golden Rule
When buying new kitchenware, always check for the «dishwasher safe» symbol (a dishwasher image with water drops). If it has this symbol, you can safely wash it in the machine.
👉 Buy the genuine German Combo 3 Largo to ensure clean dishes and durable kitchenware.