Dishwasher safe or not: How to identify?
Dishwashers are a time-saving and convenient mode to get your glassware clean. With the advent of dishwashers, one of the most recurring questions remains whether your drinking glasses are dishwasher safe or not. It’s not uncommon to end up with broken or foggy glass after running it through the dishwasher. Here are some cues you can take to determine if your drinking glasses are dishwasher safe:
Identify the material
Stemware and glassware come in a range of materials from crystal, tempered glass, borosilicate glass to soda lime glass. Not all of these materials can withstand the high pressure and heat of dishwashers. Crystal, for instance, is best hand washed because the high pressure of the dishwasher can cause it to crack. To be dishwasher safe, drinking glasses should be made of durable tempered glass, like Pyrex, that can withstand high temperatures without shattering.
Look for manufacturer’s instructions
Manufacturers often indicate on the packaging or on the product itself if it is dishwasher safe. For instance, Corelle indicates that their glass plates and bowls are dishwasher safe but advise against using the ‘sanitize’ option. Similarly, Luminarc indicates that their glassware is dishwasher safe but caution against rapid temperature changes like pouring a hot beverage in a cold glass.
Check for any damage
Before putting your glassware in the dishwasher, inspect it for any cracks, chips or scratches as they weaken the glass and can result in breakage when exposed to high heat and pressure. Glass with damages should always be hand washed.
Stick to a gentle cycle
Dishwashers often come with several cycles that vary depending on the nature of the load to be washed. For glasses, stick to the gentle cycle, which minimizes the pressure and heat on the glass. It’s also crucial to ensure that the glasses are securely placed and do not touch each other or the dishwasher walls as they can cause cracks and chips.
Read expert reviews
Finally, reading expert reviews on the specific brand or type of glass you own can help identify common complaints or issues users have faced when cleaning them in the dishwasher. Additionally, browsing forums and discussions online can provide insights on how others have been able to clean their glassware without the risk of damage.
