A dishwasher makes kitchen cleanup much easier, but not everything belongs inside it. High temperatures, strong detergents, and powerful water jets can damage certain cookware, utensils, and delicate items. Before putting something in the dishwasher, check the manufacturer’s instructions, especially if the label says “hand wash only.”

Sharp knives and wooden utensils are best washed by hand. Dishwasher cycles can dull knife blades, while wooden spoons, handles, and cutting boards can absorb water and eventually crack, warp, or lose their finish. Wash these items with warm, soapy water, dry them immediately, and occasionally treat wooden surfaces with food-grade mineral oil to help maintain them.

Delicate crystal glasses, fine china, cast iron, and nonstick cookware also need special attention. Crystal and porcelain can chip, break, become cloudy, or lose decorative details. Cast iron may lose its protective seasoning and develop rust when exposed to dishwasher detergent and moisture. Nonstick pans can also suffer coating damage over time, so they are better cleaned gently with a soft sponge and mild soap after cooling.

It is also best to keep jars with adhesive labels and many insulated travel mugs or thermoses out of the dishwasher. Heat and water can loosen labels, leaving sticky residue that may clog the dishwasher filter, while high temperatures can damage the vacuum seal of insulated containers. Taking these simple precautions can help protect your kitchenware and keep it looking and working well for much longer.