Just How Dishwasher Safe is Stainless Steel?
Commercial kitchen dishwashers are the lifeblood of your establishment. They help to sanitize & completely rejuvenate your wares & utensils as quickly as possible. However, we all know there are just some materials that are not dishwasher safe & do not belong anywhere near a dishwasher. Is stainless steel one of those items?
In this article, we will review some dishwasher safe metals & determine if stainless steel is actually okay to go into your dishwasher. We’ll also offer up an alternative cleaning method as well. Let’s jump in.
Dishwasher Safe – What Does It Actually Mean?
Believe it or not, dishwashing is an abrasive process that can actually tarnish, or in some cases completely destroy materials. Over time, the rough washing process wears away material making them less durable & prone to cracking. If something is “dishwasher safe,” this means it is able to withstand the constant cleaning cycles with no harm to the material itself. Not all metals, for example, are dishwasher safe.
The following are a list of metals that are 100% NOT dishwasher safe along with the reasons why:
Aluminum – Although similar to stainless steel by looks, aluminum is entirely too fragile to withstand the dishwasher. This is because aluminum lacks special protective coatings/finishes to safeguard it. Aluminum is also prone to scratching, which ruins the appearance.
Copper – Copper is prone to becoming dull & tarnishes very easily. Dishwashers will ruin all cooper wares in no time.
Cast Iron – It’s susceptible to rusting so constant water pressure will ruin it. Most cast iron items have a non-stick surface that will strip away in the dishwasher.
Carbon Steel – Almost similar to stainless steel, carbon steel is prone to scratching & can be ruined in the dishwasher.
Wood – It can warp & crack easily. Wood also scratches so a dishwasher is entirely out of the question.
So, Where Does This Leave Stainless Steel?
So, is stainless steel the clear winner? The short answer is – yes. However (you knew there would be exceptions), there are some notes to consider before you throw stainless steels items in your dishwasher.
First, if your stainless steel product has a wooden knob, plastic handles or anything that can be warped easily – do not use the dishwasher! Dishwashers will cut through these materials. Second, type 304 stainless steel is really the best bet when it comes to using the dishwasher. Other grades of stainless steel may be more prone to wear. Type 304 stainless steel is ultimately corrosion resistant & dishwasher friendly.
Here is the general rule of thumb – your item must be 100% made of stainless steel in order for it to be dishwasher safe. However, always check the instructions or packaging to confirm if your stainless steel item is dishwasher ready.
Alternative Cleaning Method
If you determine that the dishwasher is not the best way of cleaning, there are alternative cleaning methods that can be used instead. Handwashing is the most common way – just use baking soda & water. Scrub only with a non-abrasive tool. Add salt to the water to avoid surface pitting.
Avoid using steel wool pads & bleach at all costs. These will cut through the protective stainless steel layer in no time, tarnishing the look of your product. Also, avoid using any cleaners that can be a food hazard such as WD-40.
Dishwashers are an invaluable asset, but always remember to be wary of what you put inside of it. Stainless steel is one of the best metals to put inside of your dishwasher without the risk of degradation. For more stainless steel cleaning tips, click here.