WASH THIS
I’m a dishwasher expert – you CAN clean toys & hair brushes, but two common utensils should never go in there
NO ONE really likes scrubbing endless dirty dishes, so having a dishwasher in your home is a great way to save loads of time.
But it can get pretty confusing if you don't know what is and isn't dishwasher safe, that's why a dishwasher expert has revealed the surprising items you can clean in your machine, plus the ones you should avoid putting in there are all costs.
2
2
Some items are better being washed by hand, of course, but did you know it's not just dirty dishes you can clean in your machine?
According to Dmitry Letsman, Dishwasher Category Manager at leading home appliance brand , there are a few common household items you can get looking as good as new in the dishwasher.
He explained: "When it comes to cleaning up after a meal, for most households, the dishwasher can be a real game-changer.
"But, with so many different types of dishes and cookware out there, it can be hard to know which items are safe to put in the dishwasher and which ones should be washed by hand."
READ MORE ON CLEANING
Items you can put in the dishwasher
Toys
Dmitry noted that many plastic or rubber toys can be cleaned in the dishwasher.
Of course, you should always check to see if there are any hidden electrical components or parts that could break beforehand.
But for the most part, your kid's grubby toys will come out looking as good a new and you won't have to spend any time scrubbing away.
Hairbrushes and combs
"Certain types of hairbrushes and combs, such as those made of plastic, can be safely cleaned in the dishwasher," the expert said.
Most read in Fabulous
What's more, the powerful water and high heat inside your machine is the perfect thing to remove the grim build-up of oil and dirt probably lurking in your brushes.
Silicone items
Certain items made from silicone, such as kitchen accessories including oven gloves, can be easily washed in the dishwasher.
The free hack that stops that musty stench from taking over your washing machine, according to The Queen of Clean
This means you don't have to waste time washing them by hand and can be satisfied knowing you won't miss any hidden grime, a win-win!
Items you cannot put in the dishwasher
Wooden utensils
It might be tempting to chuck certain wooden items, like chopping boards, spoons and spatulas into the dishwasher with the rest of your dishes - but that's the last thing you should do.
They can "distort, crack and even lose their finish in the dishwasher," the expert said.
Washing them by hand will ensure they last longer and don't get damaged, he added.
Sharp knives
Even if you don't consider yourself much of a chef, having sharp knives can make or break your meal prep.
Cleaning hacks and tips
Here are some tips to help you clean your home like a pro:
- How to clean your washing machine in a few easy steps
- Keep on top of cleaning your oven regularly
- Clean your shower to ensure it's always sparkling
- How to clean your microwave using cheap household items
- Here's how to get rid of that nasty limescale in your kettle
- You're cleaning your carpet all wrong - here's how to get it spotless again in no time
- Unblock a toilet without a plunger
- Clean your fabric or leather sofa in a few easy steps
- If you haven't in ages, here's how
- Steps to cleaning your dishwasher to leave it looking brand new
- This is how to clean mirrors and windows without streaking
- Keep your toilet clean in four easy steps
- Give your TV screen a once-over
- Did you know your Venetian, Roman, vertical, or roller blinds also need cleaning?
- Deep-clean your fridge in five simple steps
That's why that should never go in your dishwasher.
"Dishwashers can dull the blades of sharp kitchen knives over time, causing them to chip or rust.
"Hand washing and immediate drying is the best way to clean them," the expert said.
READ MORE SUN STORIES
Fine china and delicate glassware
Delicate items like china and crystal glassware can be "easily damaged or broken in the dishwasher due to the high heat and abrasive detergents used in each spin," the expert said.
Although they might survive one or two cycles, the pro recommended not taking any chances, since breaks might not be fixable.
Topics