What Does the dishwasher-safe symbol mean?
The dishwasher-safe symbol means an item can safely be cleaned in a dishwasher without being damaged by water pressure, high temperature or strong detergents.
The symbol usually shows plates or glasses with water droplets or spray lines, some products may include a “Top Rack Only” label.
Why does dishwasher safe matter?
Many people place all kitchen items in the dishwasher because it saves time as compared to hand washing.
- Powerful water jets
- High temperatures
- Long wash cycles
- Strong cleaning detergents
Putting the wrong items in the dishwasher can cause warping, discoloration and damage.
Dishwasher Safe Materials
These materials are typically safe to clean in the dishwasher.
Ceramic
- Ceramic dishes are usually glazed and fired at a high temperature which protects the surface and detergent damage.
- Not all ceramics are dishwasher safe, so always check dishwasher-safe marking.
Glass
- Modern glass dishes are usually made of tempered or heat-strengthened.
- Tempering makes a glass more resistant to change of temperature, allowing it to handle high temperature in both microwaves and dishwashers.
Plastic
- Not all plastic items are dishwasher safe
- Some plastics have low melting points and can bend or warp under high heat.
- The bottom rack is closer to dishwasher heating elements, so the high heat can cause plastic to warp or bend.
Stainless Steel
Kitchen utensils made of stainless steel are usually dishwasher-safe because this material:
- Handle high heat
- Resist rust
- Resist reactions with most detergents
Stainless stain is ideal for utensils, spoons and forks.
Silicone
Silicone kitchen items like baking tools and spatulas can safely go into the dishwasher because,
- Highly heat resistant
- Flexible
How do dishwasher safe symbols look ?
There is not one official safe symbol, so designs can vary. Most show circles and lines representing dishes, giving us a sign that all items are safe to wash. Below are some symbols of dishwasher and what they mean.
Other kitchenware symbols
Food Safe Symbol
The wine glass and fork symbol means the item is safe for drinks and foods. Some items are made of such material that isn’t suitable to come into contact with food, so always check the symbol before use.
Microwave Safe Symbol
Microwave-safe symbols indicate the feature of wave-lines representing the heat wave. This symbol means the item can be heated safely in a microwave.
Maximum and Minimum Temperature
Some items show temperature limits that refer to the highest and lowest temperature, so the material can handle safely.
Freezer Safe Symbol
Items that are safe for the freezer use a snowflake symbol on the bottom. It refers that the item can easily handle freezer temperature without any damage.
Recycling Symbol
The triangular arrow symbol with numbers from 01-07 identified the plastic type and whether the item can be recycled.
Items You Should Not Put in the Dishwasher
Some kitchen items should always be washed by hand because the dishwasher may damage them. Examples are,
- Travel mugs
- Electric kettles
- Sharp knives or mandolins
- Nonstick pots and pans
- Copper and Aluminum cookware
- Wooden utensils or cutting boards
- Parts from appliances with electrical components
Why these items should be washed by hand
- Wood absorbs water, which can cause swelling,cracking and warping.
- Strong detergents can break down protective coating over time.
- o can cause discoloration and corrosion of aluminum and copper.
- High water pressure can dull the sharp blades of knives.
Conclusion
Understanding the dishwasher-safe symbol helps you know which item can safely go to the dishwasher and which one should be washed by hand. Taking a moment to check these symbols can protect your kitchenware, prevent damage, and extend the life of utensils and containers.
FAQs
Does the glass and fork symbol mean dishwasher safe?
No, it means the item is safe for food contact. It does not refer the dishwasher safely
What is the dishwasher OK symbol?
It usually shows spray lines and plates with water droplets, indicating the item that can be washed in the dishwasher.
Is there a symbol for not dishwasher safe?
Yes, there is a cross and slash icon meaning the item should be washed by hand.
What does the “eco” symbol on my dishwasher mean?
The eco is an energy-saving cycle that uses less water and electricity, although it may take longer time to complete.
What happens if I put something in the dishwasher that isn’t dishwasher safe?
Items that are not dishwasher safe,
- Discolor
- Warp or melt
- Lose protective coatings
