9 Household Items You Should Be Cleaning in Your Dishwasher

It is a common misconception that dishwashers are solely for kitchenware cleaning, but this is not the case.

0
135

Can the Dishwasher Do the Dirty Work?

Scrubbing brushes

Scrubbing brushes or regular sponges used for washing dishes can be cleaned in the dishwasher, alongside the dirty dishes. Place them on the top rack, in between pegs, to ensure they don’t move around during the wash cycle.

Additionally, homeowners can place all types of washing brushes in the machine, as long as they don’t have wooden handles.

Brooms and Dusting Cloths

While a broom itself cannot be placed in the dishwasher, the broom head can be. Just ensure that it is placed upside down (bristles facing downwards) to avoid damage.

However, this method is only suitable for plastic brooms and not natural-fiber brooms. Additionally, mops used for sweeping and cleaning floors are also suitable for washing in the dishwasher.

Children’s Plastic Toys

Children’s toys get dirty very quickly, and the best way to clean them is by using the dishwasher, along with the kitchen utensils.

If your family has a lot of small toys that can easily be lost, you can put them in a mesh bag. But ensure that you do not place toys with batteries or charging pins, as electronic devices can be damaged or short-circuited when exposed to water.





Dishwashers can easily clean children’s plastic toys.

Flip-flops and Hard Plastic Shoes

Any type of plastic shoe, such as Crocs or flip-flops, can be effectively cleaned in the dishwasher. However, it is better to wash them separately from dishes to ensure hygiene.

It is recommended to place them on the rack, standing upright, so that dirty water does not accumulate inside the shoes.

Gardening Tools

Gardening tools and household repair tools can be placed in the dishwasher. But it is important to follow this rule: only plastic and metal tools are suitable. Tools with wooden or steel handles should never be washed in the dishwasher.

Light Covers

Light covers can get just as dirty as other items in the house. Especially those made of ceramic or glass. However, for multi-year-old items or those made of colored glass, it is not recommended to wash them in the machine, as they may break or lose their color.

Nail Clippers, Tweezers, and Toothbrushes

Items used for personal care can get very dirty due to dead skin buildup. Instead of hand-washing them, you can put them in the dishwasher, along with the dirty dishes. But it is recommended to place them in the cutlery basket to avoid losing them.

Trash Cans

Small trash cans made of flexible plastic can also be easily cleaned in the dishwasher. As long as they fit in the lower rack, they can be washed along with other items such as gardening tools and plastic shoes, saving time, water, detergent, and ensuring easy removal of bacteria without getting your hands dirty.

Potatoes

If you’re planning a hearty dinner with mashed or fried potatoes, you can put them in the dishwasher to clean them, without the need for any cleaning products.

The dishwasher effectively cleans potatoes, saving you time to prepare other dishes.

Items That Should Not Be Washed in the Dishwasher

Wooden Items: Wood tends to separate and break when exposed to water for extended periods. Therefore, it is best to avoid putting wooden spoons and cutting boards in the dishwasher.

Cast Iron Pans: These pans are usually coated with a special non-stick layer, which can be damaged by the dishwasher.

Electronic Items: Electronic devices will undoubtedly be damaged if placed in the dishwasher.

Knives: Knives are not suitable for the high temperatures and humid environment of a dishwasher. In particular, the blades and handles can be damaged. Additionally, the sharpness of the blades can cause harm to other items in the machine.

Frequently asked questions

You can wash a variety of household items in your dishwasher, including plastic toys, toothbrush holders, pet bowls, refrigerator drawers, sponges, rags, and even baseball caps.

Washing these items in the dishwasher can help sanitize them, removing harmful bacteria and germs. It’s also a convenient way to clean multiple items at once, saving time and effort.

It’s recommended to clean these items regularly, especially those that come into direct contact with food or your body. Sponges, rags, and toothbrush holders, for example, should be washed at least once a week. For other items, such as toys and pet bowls, washing them every two weeks or once a month is generally sufficient.

Yes, it’s important to note that not all household items are dishwasher-safe. Avoid putting wooden or cast iron items in the dishwasher, as well as delicate glassware or anything with intricate details that could retain water and cause mildew.

For most of these items, a normal wash cycle with hot water is sufficient. However, for more delicate items, such as baseball caps or plastic toys, consider using a gentle cycle with warm or cold water to prevent any potential damage.
You may also like

Discovering Unusual Ways to Utilize Salt

Table salt: a staple for the kitchen table, and a surprisingly powerful and versatile tool for cleaning, preserving and more! From preventing the discoloration of vegetables to repelling termites to deodorizing shoes, the uses of salt extend far beyond the kitchen.

Discover How to Safely and Efficiently Deodorize Kitchen Utensils

Are you worried about the strong odors emanating from your frequently used household appliances? Don’t be tempted to reach for harsh detergents – instead, try these simple and safe deodorizing tips, guaranteed to leave your home smelling fresh and clean!

How to Make White Clothes Look Like New Again Using 20 Stain-Removal Techniques

Don’t despair if that pesky stain on your white clothes won’t come out – simply follow these 20 tips from Dien May Xanh and you’ll be able to get your clothes looking bright and clean in no time! With just a few simple ingredients, you can quickly remove any stains.

How to Properly Use and Maintain a Blender

In the summer heat, cool smoothies can be quickly prepared with the help of a blender. To ensure it works well and lasts for many years, with good maintenance and regular cleaning, the blender should be well-taken care of.

Discover the Unexpected Benefits of Combining Ginger and Toothpaste

Did you know that combining ginger and toothpaste offers a surprising array of uses? Find out more by reading the article below.