The dishwasher is one of the most used kitchen appliances in the home (Image: Getty)
If individuals are on hosting duty this festive season, it’s likely that they will be relying on their dishwashers to do the heavy lifting.
However, there are certain things people should avoid putting in their dishwashers this especially if someone doesn’t want to deal with a dishwasher repair in the new year.
Ian Palmer-Smith, an appliance repair expert at has listed which items to avoid putting in the appliance.
From glassware to wooden utensils, putting these five items in your dishwasher could result in breakage, or cause damage to your dishwasher.
Let’s take a look at the items in more detail.
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Avoid putting dainty glassware in your dishwasher (Image: Getty)
Dainty glassware
Palmer-Smith said: “The festive season is when many of us tend to dust off our best glassware, ready for hosting friends and family.
“However, with this, you’ll need to reconsider putting these in the dishwasher at the end of the evening. For any daintier glassware, or wine glasses with very thin stems, you should stick to handwashing to avoid any breakage.
“Not only will this keep your favourite glasses looking like new, but will also protect your appliance. If glass was to break inside the dishwasher, this could result in an otherwise prevented dishwasher repair.”
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Adding certain items to the dishwasher can cause problems in the long run (Image: Getty)
Wooden utensils
The expert advised: “Wooden utensils and chopping boards are another one to avoid when it comes to dishwashers. This is because harsh detergents can strip the wood’s natural oils, causing them to become brittle and cracked.
“If this happens, you’ll find chips of wood getting clogged up in the filter – something you want to avoid to have a well-functioning dishwasher.”
Non-stick pans
Palmer-Smith said: “Another item that should never go in the dishwasher, no matter the season, is non-stick pans.
“Due to the humidity and heat that occurs during a cycle, the dishwasher can cause the non-stock coating to be compromised over time.
“This means you’ll no longer be able to safely use your non-stick pans, and could also result in your dishwasher filter becoming clogged as the coating flakes away.”
Plastic leftover containers
He continued: “Christmas tends to be a busy time in the kitchen, with many of our fridges full of leftover food from Christmas dinners and gatherings. However, putting any flimsy plastic food containers in is a big no-no when it comes to dishwashers.
“Whilst sturdier containers are fine to go in the dishwasher, takeaway containers often melt or break when added to a cycle.
“If the plastic breaks down, this can damage the filter, causing the appliance to break or leak. With this in mind, you might want to consider handwashing these items if you have lots of leftover food.”
Hand-painted mugs
He added: “With hot chocolate and mulled wine season in full swing, many people will be switching out their usual cups for their favourite handpainted festive mug.
“You’ll want to stick to handwashing these, however, as dishwasher detergent can chip away at the paint in as little as one cycle. So whilst it might be tempting to put it in your daily wash, you’re better off leaving this one out.”