2. Refined crystal and fine porcelain
If you have beautiful crystal glass or fine porcelain, it deserves the royal treatment.
High-pressure water jets can cause fragile glass to collide with other dishes or shatter. Harsh detergents and intense heat can permanently damage the crystal’s surface, making it appear cloudy no matter how often you polish it. Additionally, delicate gold or silver plating is likely to fade, chip, or wash off completely.
How to care for them: Line a plastic container with a towel to prevent slipping, and gently wash the pieces with a mild detergent and lukewarm water. Rinse them thoroughly and let them dry on a rack or dry them gently with a lint-free cloth. Never stack heavy objects on top of delicate pieces.
3. Cast Iron Pans
Cast iron pans are the undisputed workhorses of the kitchen, but they can’t stand the dishwasher. Harsh detergents and high temperatures remove the polymerized layer of oil—also known as “seasoning”—that gives cast iron its natural nonstick properties. Without this protective layer, the iron will quickly rust when exposed to moisture and air. Repeated use in the dishwasher will severely damage the iron’s surface over time.
Care Instructions: Hand wash with hot water and a stiff brush (soap is rarely needed). Dry pan completely on stovetop over low heat and lightly oil after each wash to maintain nonstick coating. Never soak cast iron pans for extended periods.
