🍽️ 5 Things You Should Never Put in Your Dishwasher
Toronto Cleaning Pros Share What to Keep Out of Your Machine (and Why It Matters)
If you’re like most busy Toronto families, your dishwasher is a daily lifesaver. But did you know that putting the wrong items in it could damage your dishes, your appliance—and even your home?
At Midtown Maids, we’ve seen our fair share of dishwasher disasters while cleaning homes across Midtown Toronto. Here’s your essential guide to what never belongs in your dishwasher—and what to do instead.
đźš« 1. Wood Utensils and Wood Cutting Boards
Dishwashers = water + heat + pressure. For wood, that’s a recipe for disaster.
Why Avoid It:
Hot water causes wood to crack, warp, or split
Detergents strip away natural oils that protect the surface
Bacteria can build up in damaged wood
What to Do Instead:
Wash wood items by hand using mild soap and warm water
Towel dry immediately—don’t let them soak!
đźš« 2. Cast Iron Pans and Skillets
Cast iron is built to last generations—but not if you run it through the dishwasher.
Why Avoid It:
Dishwashers strip away the seasoning (non-stick coating you build over time)
Causes rust and shortens the lifespan of the pan
What to Do Instead:
Scrub gently with coarse salt and hot water
Dry completely, then re-oil to maintain the seasoning
đźš« 3. Crystal and Fine China
Do you have heirloom dishes or wine glasses you love? Keep them far away from your dishwasher.
Why Avoid It:
Heat and water pressure can cause chips or cracks
Etching and clouding dull the glass over time
Decorative elements like gold trim can fade
What to Do Instead:
Hand-wash with a soft sponge and warm water
Lay towels in the sink to protect fragile items
đźš« 4. Sharp Knives
Dishwasher cycles can ruin your favorite kitchen knives—and the inside of your dishwasher.
Why Avoid It:
Dulls the blade quickly
Can cause nicks in plastic racks
Risk of accidents when unloading
What to Do Instead:
Hand-wash immediately after use
Dry with a towel and store in a knife block
🚫 5. Plastic Containers Not Labeled “Dishwasher Safe”
Toronto families love meal prepping—but plastic containers in the dishwasher can go wrong fast.
Why Avoid It:
Heat can melt or warp cheap plastics
Releases harmful chemicals if not BPA-free
Warped lids = messy leaks later
What to Do Instead:
Only put top-rack-safe plastic containers in the dishwasher
Better yet: switch to glass containers for easy cleaning and safety
🧼 Why Midtown Maids Knows the Details That Matter
We don’t just wipe counters—we help our clients avoid costly cleaning mistakes. Our team is trained in best practices for appliance care, surface safety, and deep cleaning in homes with all types of cookware, finishes, and materials.
And the best part? Booking with us is quick and easy.
Midtown Maids uses Jobber—a powerful scheduling platform trusted by top cleaning businesses in Canada—to make online booking seamless and stress-free. You’ll receive automated reminders, digital invoices, and a cleaning appointment that works around your busy schedule.
🗓️ Book your cleaning in seconds → midtownmaids.ca/contact
đź’ˇ Bonus Tip: Dishwasher Deep Clean
When was the last time you cleaned your dishwasher?
Run an empty cycle with white vinegar
Sprinkle baking soda on the base and run another short cycle
Wipe filters and seals with a cloth
Want help? Our deep cleaning service includes appliance exteriors and quick maintenance tips.
đź“ŤServing Midtown Toronto & Surrounding Areas
Midtown Maids proudly serves homes in:
🏠Yonge & Eglinton | Davisville | Mount Pleasant | Rosedale | Forest Hill | Leaside
🧽 Ready for That Just-Cleaned Feeling?
From dishwashers to dog hair, Midtown Maids has you covered. Book a trusted, eco-friendly cleaning crew—right from your phone.
📲 Visit midtownmaids.ca or call us to book your first clean.
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