Things You Absolutely Should Not Put in a Dishwasher

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# Things You Absolutely Should Not Put in a Dishwasher

The dishwasher is one of the greatest kitchen conveniences ever invented. With the push of a button, it promises sparkling clean dishes, less time spent scrubbing, and more time to enjoy life. But despite how useful it is, **the dishwasher is not a one-size-fits-all cleaning solution**.

Many everyday items can be damaged, ruined, or even become dangerous when placed in a dishwasher. Some materials can warp, crack, rust, dull, or leach chemicals under high heat and harsh detergents. Others may damage the dishwasher itself.

If you’ve ever opened your dishwasher to find cloudy glasses, cracked lids, or a warped cutting board, you’re not alone. To save your kitchen tools, protect your appliances, and avoid costly mistakes, here’s a detailed guide to the **things you should absolutely never put in a dishwasher**—and why.

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## 1. Wooden Items

Wood and dishwashers are a terrible combination.

### What not to put in:

* Wooden cutting boards
* Wooden spoons and spatulas
* Rolling pins
* Salad bowls made of wood

### Why it’s a problem:

Dishwashers use **high heat, steam, and long soak cycles**, which cause wood to absorb water. Over time, wooden items can:

* Warp or crack
* Lose their shape
* Develop rough surfaces
* Harbor bacteria in newly formed cracks
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