The dishwasher is a convenient but poorly understood part of your plumbing that doesn’t always work properly. It’s easy to rush dishes through the processor to overload it, ensuring certain things don’t get cleaned as they should. While every model has its limitations, there are general guidelines that every homeowner should follow to have a successful dishwashing experience. A professional plumber in Pennsylvania can help you better understand what you can and cannot put into your dishwasher.
What Can Go in the Dishwasher?
Dishes and Glassware
For the most part, whether or not you can wash dishes in a machine will depend on how you intend to use them. Most glassware is dishwasher-safe, but if you have antique glasses that have delicate designs painted on them, they may be prone to get scratched by the cycles. Before washing it, you should check glassware to ensure that they are not particularly fragile.
Non-Breakable Dishes and Utensils
Stoneware, porcelain, ceramic, and other dishes and bowls can be used in the dishwasher. Whether they are hard anodized or not may depend on how fragile they are; if you can break them with a fair amount of force, it’s safe to wash them by hand. If you are concerned about your dishes breaking, consider washing them instead. If you have one of the more durable dinnerware sets, they should withstand normal dishwasher use and be safe to wash in a machine.
Cutlery
Cutlery can be placed in the dishwasher, including spoons, knives, and forks. If you are washing the utensils repeatedly, it may be worthwhile to invest in a set of cutlery that is hard-anodized for dishwasher use.
Cutlery Racks and Silverware Holders
Many dishwashers come equipped with retractable silverware holders, but these aren’t necessarily safe for use in the machine. If a rack is not spring-powered, it will not work in a dishwasher. The same is true for holders that rely on water pressure.
Things You Cannot Place in the Dishwasher
Plastic Food Containers and Other Small Items
Plastics should not be put in the dishwasher. If you are washing plastic containers or other small plastic items by hand, use plenty of hot soapy water to ensure that they are clean. These items can be washed in the sink with soap and water and rinsed from time to time with a scrub brush.
Lids
Many lids are dishwasher-safe; others may not be. The best way to determine whether or not you can wash a lid is to check the manufacturer’s label. If it says “dishwasher-safe,” then it should be fine. If the label does not specify, try washing them with hot soapy water in the sink.
Do not place Pyrex dishes and other non-melamine dishes in dishwashers. The harsh machine cycle can chip or crack Pyrex. If you don’t want to wash dishes by hand, consider investing in a set of microwavable plastic plates and bowls that can be used instead.
Contact Goodman Plumbing Today
Look for a professional plumber in Pennsylvania to help install the dishwasher you need. It is essential to consider how you will use the machine before buying it and take precautions to ensure that your dishes are being cleaned properly. Dishwashers can quickly ruin a household budget if they are not used properly, so it is essential to ensure they are working correctly and helping you do what needs doing. A professional plumber in Pennsylvania should be able to help with this problem.
Call our company today to find out how we can help you with your plumbing needs!
