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5.0 RATING

Stop Putting These Things in the Dishwasher

Dishwashers are vital appliances in the kitchen. They can have dirty utensils and dishes sparkling clean in the shortest time without much effort.

May 05, 2026
Stop Putting These Things in the Dishwasher

Dishwashers are vital appliances in the kitchen. They can have dirty utensils and dishes sparkling clean in the shortest time without much effort. Despite popular belief, using high water temperature and drying functions in dishwashers is not good for some items. Items labeled "dishwasher safe" by manufacturers help you know what should go in your dishwasher, but not all the items are labeled. If you don't know what is safe for the dishwasher, Mr. Rooter Plumbing can help.

Cast Iron Pans

Cast iron pans are made from a strong, durable material, which most people assume can withstand the conditions inside the dishwasher. However, prolonged exposure to harsh detergents and high water temperature compromises the exterior finish. This leaves behind an exposed piece of metal that is susceptible to rust, cracks, and leaks in cases of extreme damage.

Our Customers Reviews

Larry R.

Howell Township, NJ

It was a late Saturday night. We had a super stubborn clog in some old galvanized pipes. Mr. Rooter send out Phil. Phil was great! He found the problem pretty quick. With determination and professionalism he final got it cleared out. I would recommend Mr. Rooter and Phil to anyone! He even cleaned up. We are so happy we choose Mr. Rooter!

Rose Bernard

Red Bank, NJ

We had a plumbing emergency and found Mr. Rooter while frantically searching for a 24-hour plumber. We feel like we hit a gold mine. Not only did we get a timely response. Everyone at Mr. Rooter was friendly, professional, competent and went above and beyond. Our plumber, Phil, was extremely helpful and gave us tips we could use moving firwars. Not to mention, the cost was extremely reasonable.

Joseph Chis

Hillsborough, NJ

Had sewer water backup in toilet and tub. Received callback as promised and arrived early. The tech determined we needed the main line to be cleared. He quickly located the opening and had us cleared in minutes. Very happy with the service. I was not prepared for the fee but it was an emergency.

Christopher Cox

Little Silver Township

Plumber, Phil, came out on short notice on a Saturday night and fixed our issue quickly, professionally and courteously. I contacted a different, well known plumbing company right before Mr. Rooter. The receptionist was rude and they didn’t call me back to say they couldn’t make it until after Phil left! The Mr. Rooter receptionist was very nice and they called me back quickly. I’m glad they did.

Debbie Dimitrion

Colts Neck, NJ

I just wanted to say James did a great job at my house. Excellent service, professional and very nice. Thank you so much for helping me with my plumbing problem. Did wonderful job.

Rachel Turunen

Jackson Township

I was very happy that I went with Mr. Rooter’s. The service was very quick and up front. Jessie James was very helpful answering my questions and replacing my hot water heater. He was pleasurable to do business with. If another problem arises in my home, I will be using this company again.

William Holden

Brick Township, NJ

A thorough, professional, pleasant experience. I had a back-up in the 50 year-old pipes of my new home. I called Mr. Rooter to have them locate the blockage, snake the line, and then use their video snake to get a visual of the integrity of the pipes. I’m glad that I called and will use them again for future needs.

LarJ MarJ

Oakhurst, NJ

You get what you pay for. Edwin Robles of Central NJ educated me as a 1st time homebuyer on why and what he was repairing, prevention, PROMPT,(on a sunday at that!) clean, knowledgeable, super professional but DOWN TO EARTH and at a REASONABLE PRICE! Sewer pipes unclogged and main water line fixed. I was no longer crying once job was thoroughly executed. After all $#@* $tinks but somebody has to do it and I HIGHLY recommend him and this company for a job well done. THANK YOU VERY MUCH!!

Margie Rafferty-Criscione

Ocean Township

Absolutely lovely office staff! I always knew when the repair person was coming. Lorenzo our repair guy was awesome, I really don't think there is anything he can't do. He looks young, but don't let that fool you! So happy all the repairs are behind us. We really just did a one-stop shopping and decided to have everything we've put off fixed because it was such a tremendous experience!

Stop Putting These Things in the Dishwasher

A professional plumber with extensive industry knowledge can help you differentiate between safe kitchen items and those that aren't safe for your appliance. The "dishwasher safe" symbol is usually located at the bottom of most appliances, and it includes a box with glasses or plates inside and droplets to represent washing. If a particular item is not safe for the dishwasher, it will have a similar symbol, but the dishes will be crossed with an X. Here are some of the items we don't recommend putting in your dishwasher.

Wooden Cutting Boards and Utensils

Regardless of how firm wooden utensils and cutting boards appear, exposure to high heat and water for a long time can splinter, warp, and break these items. It is advisable to wash them in the sink than risk damage in the dishwasher. The last thing you want is irreparable damage to some of your wooden utensils, forcing you to include a new one in your budget.

Antique or Hand-Painted China

China is known to be "dishwasher safe" when the appliance runs in a China or light setting. If the item is an antique and painted by hand, the conditions in the dishwasher can wear away any unique designs or details. We recommend hand-washing such delicate items with gentle dish soap to avoid eroding the art.

Expensive Chef's Knives

Chef's knives are usually very sharp and have a protective outer layer that protects them from rust. The jests in the dishwasher can dull the blades and erode the protective layer, leaving them susceptible to rust and incapable of cutting items efficiently. These knives should be washed by hand to preserve them in good condition without the constant need to sharpen them regularly.

Aluminum or Copper Cookware

Prolonged exposure to the dishwashing machine's high temperature and water pressure eventually dulls and darkens the color. The condition is worse if the cookware is not ionized because it can result in corrosion and pitting. Many cookware is made from copper and aluminum, such as pans and pots. A few extra minutes of hand-washing these items can save you a lot of money in replacing damaged ones.

If you have a dishwasher that's not functioning as expected, contact us at Mr. Rooter Plumbing. Our dependable plumber can offer exceptional installations and maintenance, ensuring it runs in optimal condition.

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