**8 things you should never put in the dishwasher** (and why) – Page 3

3. Wooden Utensils and Cutting Boards

Wood naturally expands and contracts when exposed to moisture and heat.

Repeated dishwasher cycles may cause:

Hand washing and immediate drying help wooden kitchen tools last for many years.

Some newer nonstick cookware is labeled dishwasher-safe, but repeated machine washing may gradually reduce the life of the nonstick coating.

Hand washing with a soft sponge is gentler and often extends the cookware’s performance.

Fine crystal can lose its brilliance after repeated dishwasher cycles.

High temperatures and powerful detergents may cause:

Delicate glassware is usually safest when washed carefully by hand.

Copper pots, pans, and decorative serving pieces can tarnish quickly in a dishwasher.

Harsh detergents may dull their beautiful finish.

To maintain their shine, wash them gently with warm water and dry them immediately.

Many insulated bottles and travel mugs rely on a vacuum seal between their inner and outer walls.

High dishwasher temperatures may damage that seal, reducing the mug’s ability to keep beverages hot or cold.

Unless the manufacturer specifically states otherwise, hand washing is usually recommended.

Certain aluminum items may become discolored or develop a dull finish after repeated dishwasher use.

Some detergents can even react with aluminum, causing dark spots or staining.

Gentle hand washing helps preserve the metal’s appearance.