Dishwashers have become a cornerstone of modern convenience, efficiently cleaning our dishes while we sit back and relax. However, your grandma probably had a list of items that were never allowed near this machine. Is grandma’s wisdom outdated, or should we heed her advice? Here are 9 things grandma never put in the dishwasher and why you might want to follow suit.
1. Cast Iron Skillets
Grandma always had a particular fondness for her cast iron skillet, and for a good reason. Dishwashers can strip away the skillet’s seasoned coating, leading to rust. Maintaining a cast iron skillet is an art—clean it with a brush and season it with oil to keep it in tip-top shape.
2. Wooden Cutting Boards and Utensils
Wooden items like cutting boards and utensils can crack and warp due to the hot water and drying cycle in dishwashers. Grandma usually washed these by hand using warm soapy water, and occasionally rubbing them with mineral oil to maintain their condition.
3. Crystal Glassware
The high temperature and harsh detergents in dishwashers can make crystal lose its shine and even chip. That’s why grandma always insisted on hand-washing these fragile items, using warm water and a mild detergent.
4. China Plates
Grandma’s delicate china plates were often reserved for special occasions and were always washed by hand. The reason? Dishwashers can erode the intricate paint and gold trim, significantly devaluing these treasured items.
5. Aluminum Cookware
Aluminum pots and pans can darken and pit when put through a dishwasher cycle. Grandma preferred to wash them by hand to maintain their appearance and integrity, using a soft sponge and avoiding abrasive cleaners.
6. Nonstick Pans
Nonstick pans can lose their coating when washed in a dishwasher. Grandma knew that the nonstick surface was precious and needed gentle hand-washing to last longer.
7. Insulated Travel Mugs
Insulated mugs can lose their vacuum seal if washed in the dishwasher. Grandma always advised to wash them by hand to preserve their heat-retaining abilities.
8. Brass or Copper Items
Brass and copper items can tarnish when exposed to the moisture and heat inside a dishwasher. These items have always had a special place in grandma’s kitchen, and she preserved their luster by hand-washing them.
9. Knife Blades
Sharp knives can get dulled when banging against other utensils in the dishwasher. Grandma always said a sharp knife is a cook’s best friend, so she hand-washed her knives to keep them sharp and efficient.
While dishwashers are a modern convenience, some things are better off washed the old-fashioned way. Grandma had years of wisdom backing her choices, and sometimes, traditions exist for a reason. The next time you’re tempted to throw everything into the dishwasher, remember these 9 exceptions and give them the hand-washing care they deserve.
