You own a dishwasher, and you are currently wondering what goes and what does not go inside the dishwasher. Well, most of your non-stick pans should not be inside your dishwasher. We will explain why and inform you of some exceptions to the rules.
Should you put non-stick pans/cookware in the dishwasher?
We do not recommend putting your non-stick pans/cookware in the dishwasher, except the manufacturers indicate that it is safe to do so.
Putting non-stick pans in the dishwasher can harm it in many ways. Non-stick pans have additional protective layers that make them ‘non-stick.’
Non-stick pans do not go well with high heat. Hence, they can be damaged by the dishwasher’s heat.
Also, a non-stick pan can easily be scratched during a wash cycle due to a poor arrangement of dishes. The dishwasher can fall off from its initial position during a wash cycle. Scratches, especially repeated ones, can damage the coating of the non-stick pans.
The dishwasher detergents have a higher concentration than regular detergents, and they are not best to use non-stick pans.
When these non-stick pans are repeatedly exposed to harsh wash cycles in a dishwasher, their coatings get peeled off or scratched. This, in turn, makes them unsafe for cooking, as sometimes, the coatings are not best for your health.
When the quality of the non-stick has been compromised, it is best to replace them and do more hand-washing while cleaning them.
How to clean the non-stick pans?
Your non-stick pan can last for up to five years, depending on your maintenance and cleaning habits.
Now that we have discouraged you from washing them inside the dishwasher, what is the proper way to clean a non-stick pan? Follow closely. It’s pretty simple.
When it comes to cleaning non-stick pans, the first thing you should probably note is that you need to allow the pan to cool for a bit before pouring in some cold water.
However, do not leave it in the sink unattended. It would be best to wash it as soon as it cools off.
While cleaning non-stick pans, use gentle dishwashing liquids and avoid any of those scorching metallic pads. Use soft cleaning sponges and microfiber cloths instead.
If there is any burnt food, try the vinegar solution. Fill the pan with about one and a half cups of water. Then add in half a cup of vinegar. Boil this and allow it to cool after boiling. Proceed to wash the pan with some warm and soapy water after.
After cleaning, arrange it in a safe place to prevent scratches from contacting other dishes in the kitchen.
Non-stick pan already in the dishwasher? How to contain the damage?
Luckily, you can do a couple of things to contain the damage done to your non-stick pan. You can try baking soda and vinegar soda. Let’s get at it.
For this mix, you need about one cup of water, two tablespoons of baking soda, half a cup of cleaning vinegar.
Add the baking soda and vinegar to the water and boil on your stove for about ten minutes. Wash it after with some warm and soapy water. Once you are done washing it, pour a bit of vegetable oil on the surface and rub it, making sure it covers the surface.
Lucky if you have some warranties with your manufacturer. However, confirm that such warranties cover problems with the coating of your non-stick pans.
If the cost of you containing the damage already done to the pans is equal to or more than the cost of purchasing a new one, it’s best to go with the latter and get yourself a new non-stick pan.
There are also non-stick repair sprays you can get to restore the coating of your non-stick pans.
Can some non-stick pans really be dishwasher safe?
So we have earlier advised you to wash your non-stick pans in the dishwasher because it is unsafe. However, some manufacturers insist that their non-stick pans are safe to be washed in a dishwasher. But, are they safe?
In all, it is best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when it comes to cleaning a piece of equipment. Look out for labels on the pans or check the manufacturer’s website to confirm if it is safe to be washed in a dishwasher.
However, despite this ‘safe-to-use’ claim, we still advise that you do not make it much of a habit to put your non-stick pans in the dishwasher. Mix the routine with some hand-washing and preserve the life of the pan. Repeated exposure damages the non-stick pans in the long term.
If you are using a dishwasher, make sure to arrange your dishes well and place your non-stick pans in a position that prevents scratches.
Also, it is best to skip the drying cycle. Use soft tissues or clothes instead. Also, check the manufacturer’s guide for the suitable detergent to use.
Other restrictions on cleaning your non-stick pans
Here are some other things you should consider when cleaning your non-stick pans.
Do not leave your non-stick pans unwashed. It gets much harder to clean when you do, and it only damages the pans by driving more effort to clean them.
When you are done with cleaning the non-stick pans, put a soft tissue or a soft cloth over it to prevent scratches. Also, do not use your non-stick pans as storage equipment. They are not for storing your food.
After cleaning, be careful of how you stack the pans. Frequent contact with other kitchen equipment scratches the pan’s surface, damages the coating, and reduces the pan’s lifespan.
Do not rinse or wash your non-stick pans in cool water, especially when they are still hot. Allow them to cool gradually first before adding cool water.
The ultimate guide to washing non-stick pans is not just hand-washing them but cleaning them gently. These pans are more delicate than you think. They need gentle cleaning care in place of anything vigorous.
Conclusion
It is essential to know how to care for your non-stick pans. One of these is to keep it away from the dishwasher. Proper maintenance makes the pans last longer. This guide explains important things to know about cleaning your non-stick pans, either by hand-washing or with a dishwasher.
