Five items to avoid putting in dishwashers that can cause damage to the machine

Over 50 percent of British homes have a dishwasher, according to recent data.

When installed properly, dishwashers can last up to 10 years, however, when they are not looked after problems can develop quickly.

With the cost of a new dishwasher averaging between £200 and £1,600, it’s an appliance homeowners should avoid replacing regularly.

Most items can be placed in the dishwasher these days which means they can withstand high heat, detergent and water.

But there are certain items that can actually damage the dishwasher itself if they’re placed inside.

Certain items like wooden utensils, non-stick pans and crystal glasses can’t be put in the dishwasher as it can damage them. However, there are also certain items that should not be put in the dishwasher as they could damage the appliance itself.

Over 50 percent of British homes have a dishwasher, according to recent data.

When installed properly, dishwashers can last up to 10 years, however, when they are not looked after problems can develop quickly.

With the cost of a new dishwasher averaging between £200 and £1,600 it’s an appliance homeowners should avoid replacing regularly.

Most items can be placed in the dishwasher these days which means they can withstand high heat, detergent and water.

With this in mind, appliance experts at RGBDirect have shared which items homeowners should never put in the dishwasher to extend its lifespan.

1. Tin foil or metallic objects

Metallic items, such as tin foil or metal containers with sharp edges, should not be placed in the dishwasher as they can “damage” the appliance.

The experts said: “These items can cause physical damage to the interior of the machine or create sparks, which can be hazardous.”

2. Extremely hot or cold items

Homeowners need to “avoid” putting extremely hot or cold items in the dishwasher as a sudden change in temperature can put stress on the machine’s components.

Extremely cold items in a hot dishwasher can cause a “thermal shock” which can “potentially damage the machine”.

3. Non-removable labels or stickers

Items with non-removable labels or stickers should not be placed in the dishwasher as the heat and moisture can cause the labels to disintegrate.

The fragments of the sticky label can “clog the dishwasher’s mechanisms” or cause damage to other items.

4. Non-dishwasher-safe plastics

The experts said: “Some plastics are not designed to withstand the high temperatures and intense water pressure of a dishwasher.

“Avoid putting non-dishwasher-safe plastics in the machine, as they can warp, melt, or release harmful chemicals.”

5. Large or heavy items that obstruct spray arms

Large or heavy items like cooking pots and baking trays can obstruct the dishwasher’s spray arms which can hinder water circulation and cleaning performance.

If large items do need to be put in the dishwasher, arrange them in a way that allows the spray arms to rotate freely.