Alexei Volkov
Plastic containers are not all dishwasher-safe, and it can be challenging to determine which are safe and which are not. The best way to know is to look for a dishwasher-safe symbol or label on the container. Some plastics are treated to withstand the high temperatures and detergents of a dishwasher, and these are generally safe for the top rack, away from the heating element. However, even dishwasher-safe plastics can warp, distort, or discolour over time, and high temperatures can cause plastic to release unhealthy chemicals. Therefore, it is important to understand the limits of plastic containers and to hand wash them if they are not clearly labelled as dishwasher-safe.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic containers safe in dishwasher | HDPE (Type 2), LDPE (Type 4), PP (Type 5) |
| Plastic containers not safe in dishwasher | PET (Type 1), PVC (Type 3), Phthalates, Styrene, Bisphenols |
| Harmful chemicals | BPA, Phthalates, Bisphenol A, Bisphenol S |
| Top rack safe | Yes |
| Bottom rack safe | No |
| High temperatures | Not safe |
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What You'll Learn
Plastic containers should be placed on the top rack of a dishwasher
Whether or not plastic containers are dishwasher safe depends on the type of plastic they are made of. Some plastic containers are designed to withstand the heat and cleaning action of detergents in a dishwasher cycle and are labelled 'dishwasher safe'. However, even if a plastic container is labelled as 'dishwasher safe', it is recommended to place it on the top rack of the dishwasher. This is because the dishwasher's heating element is usually situated at the bottom, and the higher temperature and water pressure of the bottom rack can damage the container.
The bottom rack of a dishwasher receives more direct heat and hot water than the top rack. The top rack is designed for small and delicate items, such as small bowls and plates, which are better protected from the powerful sprayer and high heat of the bottom rack. Therefore, plastic containers should be placed on the top rack to avoid melting or warping.
Additionally, lightweight plastic containers placed on the bottom rack may tip over and fill with water due to the direct pressure from the water sprayers. This can be avoided by placing them on the top rack, where they will be subjected to less direct force from the water.
Some plastic containers may be labelled 'dishwasher safe, top rack only', indicating that they should only be placed on the top rack of the dishwasher. It is important to adhere to this instruction to prevent issues such as warped or melted plastic and the leaching of chemical compounds from the plastic onto other dishes.
Overall, placing plastic containers on the top rack of a dishwasher is recommended to maintain the integrity of the containers and avoid potential issues caused by the high temperatures and water pressure of the bottom rack.
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Some plastic containers are labelled 'dishwasher safe'
Some plastic containers are labelled dishwasher-safe because they have been treated at some stage of the production process to ensure that the prolonged high temperatures of the dishwasher, and highly effective detergents, don't compromise the items and cause them any damage. The most common plastic used for food storage lids and containers, polypropylene, is top-rack safe and can be run in the dishwasher. It can be identified by the number 5 plastic recycling symbol (PP for polypropylene).
However, not all plastic containers are dishwasher-safe, and not all containers are marked to show if they are or not. This is up to the manufacturer. Disposable plastics, such as food containers and water bottles, are not dishwasher-safe. They are made from a type of plastic that is not designed to withstand heat and will warp and become unusable. They also often contain BPA, or BPA alternatives, that could be harmful to your health. If a plastic is labelled as BPA-free it means it does not include bisphenol A (BPA), a compound that hardens plastic. However, even BPA-free containers may not be safe, as research suggests that the chemicals used as substitutes for BPA, mainly other bisphenols (bisphenol S or BPS, in particular), may also have negative health impacts similar to those caused by BPA.
If the plastic item you are placing in the dishwasher isn't clearly labelled as dishwasher-safe, then you run the risk of ruining the structure of the container as well as exposing users of the item to unhealthy chemicals. Plastic materials that have recycling codes 3, 6, and 7 – corresponding to phthalates, styrene, and bisphenols, respectively – should be avoided.
Even labelled as dishwasher-safe, some plastic food containers can suffer damage over time. Warping, distortion, and discolouration can occur when the temperature is too high. The universal opinion on the best place for plastics is on the top rack of the dishwasher, because your dishwasher’s heating element sits on the bottom and could cause items – even those labelled dishwasher-safe – to melt or warp.
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High temperatures can cause plastic to warp, distort or discolour
High temperatures can cause plastic to warp, distort, or discolour. The heat from a dishwasher can cause plastic items to warp, melt, or become brittle and break. This is because plastic is a synthetic material that is sensitive to temperature changes. When exposed to high temperatures, the molecules in the plastic can move around and change shape, causing the plastic to warp or distort. In some cases, the plastic can also discolour, as the heat can affect the dyes or pigments used in the plastic.
Some plastics are more susceptible to warping and distortion than others. For example, thin, flimsy plastics designed for single-use, such as water bottles, are more likely to warp or melt in the dishwasher than thicker, harder plastics. The type of plastic also plays a role, with some types of plastic having a lower melting point than others. For example, PET, which is commonly used for water bottles, has a low melting point and is likely to melt in the dishwasher.
To avoid warping or distortion, it is important to check if a plastic item is dishwasher safe before placing it in the dishwasher. Items made of thicker, more durable plastics, such as polypropylene (PP), are often marked as top-rack dishwasher safe. Placing these items on the top rack keeps them away from the heating element, reducing the risk of warping or melting. However, it is still important to avoid high-temperature cycles, such as the "sanitize" cycle, when washing plastic items.
Even if a plastic item is marked as dishwasher safe, it can still be damaged by high temperatures over time. This is because the dishwasher's heat can cause the plastic to become brittle or discoloured. Additionally, the detergents used in dishwashers can also be too harsh for some plastics, causing them to break down or become discoloured. Therefore, it is always important to check the manufacturer's instructions and warnings before placing any plastic item in the dishwasher.
Overall, it is important to be cautious when washing plastic items in the dishwasher. While some plastics are marked as dishwasher safe, high temperatures can still cause warping, distortion, or discolouration over time. To reduce the risk of damage, it is recommended to place plastic items on the top rack, avoid high-temperature cycles, and check the manufacturer's instructions and warnings. By taking these precautions, you can help ensure that your plastic items remain in good condition.
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Some plastic containers are not dishwasher safe
Some plastic containers are not dishwasher-safe due to the potential damage that can occur to both the dishwasher and the item itself. The intense heat and water pressure of the dishwasher, particularly in the lower rack, can cause plastic items to warp, distort, discolour, or melt. Disposable plastics, such as takeout containers and water bottles, are typically not dishwasher-safe. These items are not designed to withstand high temperatures and will likely warp and become unusable.
Additionally, certain plastics contain harmful chemicals such as BPA, phthalates, and other bisphenols (like BPS). When exposed to the heat of a dishwasher, these chemicals can leach out of the plastic and into the water, potentially leading to health risks for users. Even plastics labelled as ""BPA-free"" may contain similar compounds that can have negative health effects. Therefore, it is essential to check if a plastic item is truly BPA-free before placing it in the dishwasher.
The type of plastic is a crucial factor in determining dishwasher safety. Common plastic types like PET (or PETE), PVC, and polypropylene (PP) have different properties and safety considerations. For example, PET, used in disposable water bottles, will melt in the dishwasher, while PP, used in toxin-free food containers, is generally considered top-rack safe. However, even items labelled as dishwasher-safe can suffer damage over time, emphasising the importance of checking product labels and instructions.
To identify if a plastic container is dishwasher-safe, look for a corresponding symbol or a label that explicitly states "dishwasher safe." In the absence of clear labelling, it is recommended to exercise caution and avoid placing the item in the dishwasher. It is worth noting that there is no universally approved symbol for dishwasher safety, which can lead to confusion among consumers. As such, it is advisable to also refer to the recycling number or code on the plastic item and research its dishwasher compatibility.
Overall, it is important to recognise that not all plastic containers are created equal when it comes to dishwasher safety. By considering factors such as the type of plastic, the presence of harmful chemicals, and the potential for warping or melting, consumers can make informed decisions about which plastic items are safe to place in the dishwasher.
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Dishwasher tablets contain enzymes, bleaches and surfactants
Plastic containers are not always dishwasher-safe. Some containers may warp, distort, discolour, or even melt when exposed to high temperatures. Even if a plastic item is labelled as dishwasher-safe, it may still suffer damage over time. Therefore, it is important to check the label or look for a dishwasher-safe symbol before placing plastic containers in the dishwasher.
Now, onto dishwasher tablets. These tablets are designed to break down food residue and stains on dishes, leaving them sparkling clean. They contain a combination of cleaning agents, surfactants, enzymes, bleach, and other chemicals.
Surfactants are chemicals that help to break down grease and food particles. Nonionic surfactants are commonly used in dishwasher detergents as they produce less foam. Surfactants also help to reduce the surface tension of water, allowing water to form thin sheets on dishes and glasses instead of droplets. This helps water evaporate more quickly and prevents watermarks.
Enzymes are another key component of dishwasher tablets. They target specific types of stains, such as proteins or starches. Amylases break down starches, while proteases break down proteins. Enzymes work early in the dishwashing cycle as they stop functioning at high temperatures.
Bleach is also an important ingredient in dishwasher tablets, acting as a whitening agent and disinfectant. While bleach can be toxic in its concentrated form, the amount present in dishwasher tablets is diluted and designed to be safe for use in dishwashers.
Overall, while dishwasher tablets do contain potentially harmful chemicals, they are generally safe for consumer use when used correctly. However, precautions should be taken to prevent ingestion or skin contact with concentrated forms of the product.
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Frequently asked questions
Check for a corresponding symbol underneath or a label that says "dishwasher safe". If there is no label, it is recommended to hand wash the container.
You run the risk of ruining the structure of the container and exposing users to unhealthy chemicals.
Plastics 2 (HDPE), 4 (LDPE), and 5 (PP) are generally considered top-rack safe. Food container plastic lids are commonly made with Type 5 plastic, which has a food-safe temperature of about 98oC.
The heating element of the dishwasher is in the bottom, so there is a risk of the container melting or warping.
Kitchen-specific glass and glazed ceramics can be placed in the dishwasher.
