Alexei Volkov
Whether or not a plastic container is dishwasher-safe depends on the type of plastic it is made of. Some plastics are designed to withstand the heat and cleaning action of detergents in a dishwasher cycle and are generally labelled as 'dishwasher safe'. However, if a plastic container is not labelled as such, there are other ways to determine if it is safe to put in the dishwasher.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic Type | HDPE (Type 2), LDPE (Type 4), PP (Type 5) |
| Plastic Properties | Thick, sturdy, hard plastics |
| Dishwasher Rack | Top rack |
| Dishwasher Safe Symbol | Square with plates and water droplets or diagonal lines |
| Temperature | 210° Fahrenheit |
| Recycling Symbol | Number 5 |
| Manufacturer's Guide | Check user manual |
| BPA Free | Yes |
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What You'll Learn
Check for a dishwasher-safe label or symbol
When it comes to plastic containers, it's important to check if they are dishwasher-safe to avoid damaging the container and exposing yourself to harmful chemicals. The easiest way to do this is to look for a dishwasher-safe label or symbol.
While there is no official dishwasher-safe symbol, some manufacturers like Rubbermaid have started using their own symbols. These symbols are usually found on the bottom of the container, and they indicate that the product has been treated during the production process to withstand the high temperatures and detergents of a dishwasher. A common universal symbol for dishwasher-safe plastic is a square with a plate or plates and water droplets or diagonal lines.
Recycling codes can also be used to identify if a plastic container is dishwasher-safe. The recycling codes 2 (HDPE), 4 (LDPE), and 5 (PP) are generally considered safe for dishwasher use. These plastics are more resistant to heat and chemicals, reducing the risk of damage. On the other hand, plastics with recycling codes 3, 6, and 7 should be avoided as they may contain harmful chemicals that can leach into your food or drinks.
It's important to note that not all plastic containers are marked as dishwasher-safe, so it's always a good idea to refer to the manufacturer's guidelines. Additionally, microwavable plastic is often designed to withstand higher temperatures, but it doesn't necessarily mean it's dishwasher-safe. Always look for explicit labels or symbols indicating dishwasher safety. If in doubt, hand wash the item instead.
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Identify the type of plastic
It is important to identify the type of plastic before using a plastic container in a dishwasher, as constant wear and tear on plastic can cause chemicals to leach out of the plastic when heated.
One way to identify the type of plastic is to look for a resin identification code, which is a number surrounded by a chasing arrows symbol. This code is typically moulded, formed, or imprinted on the container, often on the bottom. These codes were developed by the US-based Society of the Plastics Industry in 1988 to facilitate the recycling of post-consumer plastics. It is important to note that these codes do not indicate toxicity or safety, and plastic manufacturers are not required to disclose other chemicals added to the plastic polymer.
The seven plastic resin identification codes are:
- PET: The most well-known member of the polyester family of plastic polymers, commonly used in textile production.
- HDPE: High-density polyethylene, often used in plastic bags and bottles.
- LDPE: Low-density polyethylene, which is more flexible and has a lower melting point than HDPE.
- PP: Polypropylene, which is commonly used for food storage lids and containers and is top-rack dishwasher-safe.
- PS: Polystyrene, which is known to leach styrene, a brain and nervous system toxin, into food when hot and oily.
- Other: This code is a catch-all category for other types of plastic, including ABS, PC, PA6, and PA6-GFxx.
In addition to these codes, some manufacturers may use symbols or labels to indicate that their products are dishwasher-safe. For example, Rubbermaid uses a symbol on its plastic container products, and some plastics may be marked with "dishwasher-safe" or "top rack only" labels.
It is always important to check for these indicators before placing plastic containers in the dishwasher, as using the wrong type of plastic can ruin the structure of the container and expose users to unhealthy chemicals.
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Test on a low-heat setting first
If you're unsure about whether a plastic item is dishwasher-safe, it's recommended to test it on a low-heat setting first. Place the item on the top rack of the dishwasher, as this is furthest from the heating element, reducing the risk of melting or warping.
For the most part, food-grade plastics are safe to put in the dishwasher. However, it's important to check for a "`dishwasher-safe`" label or symbol on the bottom of the plastic container. If it doesn't explicitly state that it's dishwasher-safe, it's best to hand wash the item instead.
Some plastics are more resistant to heat and chemicals, making them safer for dishwasher use. These include plastics labelled with recycling codes 2 (high-density polyethylene, HDPE), 4 (low-density polyethylene, LDPE), and 5 (polypropylene, PP). Polypropylene is the most common food-grade plastic used for containers and lids, and it is generally considered top-rack dishwasher-safe.
However, it's important to note that not all plastics are created equal, and some are more susceptible to damage from heat and detergents. If you're unsure about a particular plastic item, it's always best to err on the side of caution and test it on a low-heat setting first. Check the item for any signs of damage before including it in regular dishwashing cycles.
Additionally, it's important to avoid using the heated dry cycle with plastics. Instead, allow them to air dry. Over time, even dishwasher-safe plastics will show wear and tear, so it's recommended to replace them periodically.
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Avoid the lower rack
When it comes to plastic containers, it's important to avoid placing them on the lower rack of your dishwasher. Here's why:
The lower rack of a dishwasher receives more direct heat and hot water than the top rack. This is because the heating element of most dishwashers is situated at the bottom, close to the bottom rack. During the final rinse cycle, the heating element boosts the water temperature to aid in quick evaporation, leaving the dishes dry. While this is effective for drying dishes, it can be problematic for plastic containers.
Plastics, especially those that are not designed to be dishwasher-safe, can warp, melt, or even deform when exposed to high temperatures for prolonged periods. This not only damages the plastic items but can also cause chemical compounds, such as BPA, to leach from the plastic and onto your other dishes. BPA, or bisphenol A, has been linked to negative health outcomes, including reproductive issues and heart disease.
To avoid these issues, always place plastic containers on the top rack of the dishwasher, as instructed by the manufacturer. This keeps the plastic away from the direct heat of the heating element. Additionally, avoid using high-temperature cycles, such as "sanitize," and opt for milder detergents to further protect your plastic items.
It's also important to note that not all plastics are created equal. Some plastics, such as polypropylene (PP) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE), are generally considered safe for dishwasher use due to their heat resistance. On the other hand, plastics with recycling codes 3, 6, and 7 should be avoided in the dishwasher as they may leach chemicals. Always check for a "dishwasher-safe" label or symbol, and if in doubt, hand wash your plastic items instead.
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Hand-wash if unsure
If you're unsure whether your plastic container is dishwasher safe, it's best to hand-wash it. This is because some plastics are not designed to withstand the heat and pressure of a dishwasher, and doing so could cause the plastic to warp or melt. Even if the plastic doesn't melt, the heat can cause chemicals like BPA to leach out of the plastic and into your food or skin, which can be harmful to your health.
To identify if a plastic container is dishwasher safe, you can look for a corresponding symbol underneath, such as a square with plates and water droplets or diagonal lines, or a label that says "dishwasher safe". If there is no such symbol or label, it's best to hand-wash the item.
You can also check the recycling number or code on the container and research whether that type of plastic is dishwasher safe. For example, plastics with recycling codes 2 (HDPE), 4 (LDPE), and 5 (PP) are generally considered safe for dishwasher use, while codes 3, 6, and 7 (phthalates, styrene, and bisphenols) should be avoided.
Additionally, you can refer to the manufacturer's guide or user manual to see if the plastic is dishwasher safe. Following these guidelines will help ensure the longevity and safety of your plastic items.
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Frequently asked questions
Check the container for a dishwasher-safe label or symbol. If it's not clearly marked, hand wash the item instead.
HDPE (high-density polyethylene), LDPE (low-density polyethylene), and PP (polypropylene) are generally considered safe for dishwasher use.
Yes, plastics with recycling codes 3, 6, and 7 should be avoided as they correspond to phthalates, styrene, and bisphenols, which may leach harmful chemicals.
Place plastic containers on the top rack of the dishwasher, away from the direct heat source.
