At times, It can be quite alluring to just simply throw your copper pots, pans, and mugs into the dishwasher for a hassle-free wash. But it is safe to wash your copperware with a dishwasher?
You should not put your copper cookware in the dishwasher if you are concerned about your health and the longevity of your kitchen equipment. With copper cookware, most of its appeal comes from its looks and color, and all copper surfaces are susceptible to dulling due to the dishwasher’s abrasiveness.
But is the defect due to the copper’s quality? And are all copper cookware dishwashers unsafe? Read on to learn more.
Can You Put Copper Mugs In The Dishwasher?
Dishwashers shouldn’t normally be used with copper mugs, as many copper mugs come with a liner or food-safe lacquer to shield the copper while reducing any exposure to copper. Numerous copper mugs are lined with or are copper plated over, nickel, stainless steel, or tin.
The lining of these copper mugs might shatter or flake in a dishwasher if they are not washed by hand first. If thoroughly washed by hand, this added support layer increases the mug’s durability and eliminates any exposure to copper.
Dishwashers employ abrasive soap, drying, and heating methods that are readily damaging to coatings or linings. Your copper mugs won't just rust and appear worn out; they can also put you at a very small but unlikely risk.
It is technically possible to put a 100% pure, unlined copper mug in the dishwasher because they don’t have a liner that may rust.
However, to maintain quality, hand-cleaning is still the way to go because they are fragile and prone to dents and tarnishing.
Can You Put Copper Pans In The Dishwasher?
Generally, it is advised against putting copper in the dishwasher and hand-cleaning your copper pans instead. The issue again arises because copper may get dull due to the dishwasher’s abrasiveness.
However, when Copper Chef’s pans are used, the plot diverges. They state explicitly that they are dishwasher-safe. The reason for it is that Copper Chef’s pans are not even made of copper. The cookware is instead composed of aluminum with two copper-coloured coatings to give it the appearance of copper, despite the label stating copper.
Copper Chef can hence be put in the dishwasher even if the name contains the word “copper.”
Also, the dishwasher can be used to clean the Copper-Core All-Clad cookware set, however, doing so may tarnish the copper ring around the outside. To prevent this, opt for hand cleaning or quickly dry the exterior with a clean microfiber towel after the wash cycle is finished.
When Can Copper Cookware Be Washed In A Dishwasher?
There are a few instances where copper cookware could be washed in the dishwasher, including:
1. If the manufacturer specifies copper cookware as “dishwasher safe”
Many manufacturers are starting to strengthen their cookware with additional, high-quality, and wear-resistant copper to make cleaning them in a dishwasher a possibility to combat the strain of hand-washing cooking equipment.
Your copper pots, pans, and cups may only be washed in a dishwasher if they were specifically manufactured for this purpose. A distinctive sign notice is typically shown prominently on the packaging of the cookware or utensil indicating that the item is dishwasher safe.
2. If the utensil or copperware has been scathed
A dishwasher wash may not be a huge concern any longer if you already have copperware that has gotten dull due to some cause, such as wear and tear, hard water, or strong detergents.
The copper cookware might not be ruined by the dishwasher, but regular use would simply deteriorate the utensil’s look. You may keep washing it in the dishwasher if you don’t mind the appearance getting worse as you have nothing to lose.
3. If you need to remove a smelly odor
The smell in the dishwashers can sometimes become a major issue, and it may cause your dishes to smell. Using copper in the dishwasher to get rid of the stench is a clever little trick.
Plumbers and do-it-yourselfers may attest to the critical function that a copper component plays in cleaning out a dishwasher that has been contaminated with a foul odor.
All you’ll need is a copper wire and bleach or vinegar. Firstly, start by clearing the dishwasher of any debris, oil, and food remnants. If there are any dishes, wash them first. Next, obtain a pure copper wire or a well-cut disc from a copper pipe, and put it in the dishwasher. If there are any alloyed metals connected, remove them.
When morning arrives, take out the pure copper wire and wash the dishwasher with roughly a half cup of vinegar or bleach. Once you’ve done this for a couple of weeks, you’ll notice that the offensive odor is no longer there.
Final Words to Washing Copper in the Dishwasher
To sum it up, most copper mugs, pans, or pots are generally not dishwasher safe, as this may dull their surface and damage the protective layer which may cause health risks in the long term.
On the other hand, copper cookware claimed by the manufacturer as dishwasher safe or copperware that is already scathed can be used in a dishwasher.
