This is how your pan comes out of the dishwasher singing

Can you put your pan in the dishwasher?

Yes, often you can. But to be honest: it rarely comes out looking better than when it went in. Especially if you choose powerful dishwasher tablets that clean more than you want. Want your pan to stay nice and in good shape for a long time? Then it’s smart to pay a little attention.

Why some tablets are too enthusiastic

Many modern dishwasher tablets work super fast and extra strong. Handy for baked-on oven dishes, but less great for pots and pans. They can:

• dull the shine of stainless steel
• damage or peel coatings
• discolor aluminium

Better choose a gentler approach

Go for tablets without aggressive bleaches or unnecessary ‘power boosters’. Gentler tablets (for example Sun Classic) clean your pan without eating away the protective layer or shine. That’s better for your pan and for your cooking pleasure.

What to watch out for

• Avoid tablets with ‘extra power’ or ‘all-in-one’ on the packaging
• Check that there is no chlorine or strong bleaches in them
• Choose a gentle program in the dishwasher
• Always dry your pan after washing

Extra tip

An old-fashioned, simple dishwasher tablet is often enough. Less aggressive, but still clean. That way you keep your pan looking good longer, without chemical overkill.

In short

Want your pan to survive the dishwasher and last for years? Choose mild, wash gently and give it a little dry cloth hug afterwards. That way your pan stays happy, and so do you.