8 Things You Should Never Put In Your Dishwasher (Slideshow)
Sharp Knives
Sharp knives dull faster when put through the dishwasher cycle. Plus, they can rack up dings and dents from other objects. Instead, wash the knives by hand, being careful not cut yourself on the blade.
Non-stick Pans
The non-stick surface of the pan can wash away after several cycles in the dishwasher. It's best to wash these by hand to keep the non-stick surface intact.
Cast Iron
Cast iron pans should avoid the dishwasher at all cost. It can remove all the seasoning from the pan and also cause them to rust. To properly clean these pans, wash the warm pan with hot water and a sponge or stiff brush. Avoid soap, steel wools, and soaking the pan. Stubborn food particles can easily be removed from boiling water in the pan. After it is clean, dry the pan and lightly coat it with cooking oil.
Wooden Spoons
Wooden spoons and other wooden kitchen utensils can lose their finish, warp, and crack when put in the dishwasher. Check with the manufacturer or wash by hand just to be safe.
Crystal
Putting crystal in the dishwasher is no better than throwing it on the floor. The high temperature and the harsh detergent can chip and crack crystal and make it loose its shine.
Gold-Plated Anything
Plates with a gold trim or gold silverware are no-nos for the dishwasher. The heat and detergent can eat the gold right off, leaving you with chipped and faded plates and utensils.
Soft Plastics
Some hard plastics are OK if they are put on the top rack, but soft plastics like Tupperware and disposable plastic containers should not be cleaned in the dishwasher.
Copper Pots
Copper pots and pans are expensive and putting them in the dishwasher is the last thing that you want to do. The dishwasher can change the color, leaving you with faded pots and pans. It is best to wash these by hand.