4. Non-stick pans
It may seem counterintuitive, considering that non-stick pans are designed to be easy to clean, but they are not dishwasher safe.
Harsh detergents and high temperatures will damage non-stick coatings (such as PTFE or Teflon), causing them to chip and lose effectiveness. This will accelerate wear and tear, meaning you’ll need to replace your expensive pans much sooner. How to care for them: Hand wash with a soft sponge and mild detergent. Avoid abrasive pads such as steel wool. Always let your pan cool completely before washing to prevent warping. Although some newer ceramic-coated pans are labeled dishwasher safe, hand washing will always extend their lifespan.
5. Anything with adhesive labels
We’ve all tried to scrub a sticky sticker off a plate after a dishwasher cycle—it’s a nightmare.
The heat and water will cause the labels to break down, leaving a tough, sticky residue on your dishes and inside your machine. Worse, the paper shreds and melted glue can clog your dishwasher’s filter, drastically reducing its cleaning efficiency. You’ll spend more time removing the residue than you’ll save by using the machine.
How to maintain them: Always remove all labels and stickers before placing them in the printer. Soak stubborn labels in warm, soapy water to loosen the adhesive, and carefully use a razor blade or scraper to remove any remaining adhesive residue.
