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To most households, restaurants or hotels, stainless steel cutlery is the norm on the dinner plate because it is durable, fashionable and simple to clean. To most individuals, however, they always wonder while washing their cutlery using the dishwasher, “Are stainless steel cutlery dishwasher-safe?” In this article, we shall answer your question from a professional point of view and also provide you with useful tips for use and maintenance.
Can Stainless Steel Cutlery Be Washed In the Dishwasher?
The reply is: High-quality stainless steel cutlery can generally be dishwasher-washed.
Stainless steel (such as 18/10 or 18/8 stainless steel) is resistant to heat and corrosion and will be able to handle the high heat and dishwashers’ detergents. Remember, however, that proper use and washing will also be necessary to help it last longer and stay shiny.
Precautions for Cleaning Stainless Steel Flatware In A Dishwasher
- Avoid mixing with silverware
Stainless steel and silverware washed together may cause an electrochemical reaction, leading to discoloration or corrosion. - Rinse as soon as possible after meals
If acidic or salty food (such as ketchup, soy sauce, salt, etc.) is left on the cutlery, it is recommended to rinse it briefly with water before putting it in the dishwasher to avoid oxidation triggered by prolonged contact. - Proper Placement
Place knives and forks with their heads facing upwards to avoid cross-stacking and to ensure that the water flow touches each part evenly to improve the cleaning effect. - Use mild detergent
Use neutral or recommended dishwasher detergent, and avoid detergents with chlorine or high alkaline content to prevent corrosion of stainless steel surfaces.
Why Does Some Stainless Steel Cutlery Have Spots or Rust Stains After Washing?
Many users will find that stainless steel flatware has limescale spots, rainbow patterns or a small amount of rust after washing during dishwasher use. This is not necessarily a quality problem, but may be due to the following reasons:
- Excessive water hardness in the dishwasher: the water contains calcium and magnesium ions, which remain on the surface of the tableware to form scale.
- Dishwasher salt or brightener was not added in time.
- Excessive use of detergent or use of poor-quality dishwashing blocks;
- Failure to remove them in time after washing results in condensation of water vapor on the surface to form rust spots.
Solution:
- Use a water softener function (e.g., dishwasher with built-in water softener);
- Open the dishwasher door as soon as possible after each wash to dissipate heat and ventilation.
- Regular internal cleaning with white vinegar or professional dishwasher cleaner.
Recommendations For the Daily Care of Stainless Steel Cutlery
To maintain stainless steel cutlery in like-new condition in the dishwasher for an extended period, the following care recommendations are made:
- Wash thoroughly before first use to remove any residual protective oil film on the surface.
- Rinse promptly after use to avoid food residues corroding the surface.
- Wipe and polish regularly with a soft cloth or sponge, and use a small amount of olive oil to enhance the gloss.
- Keep dry when storing, and avoid a humid environment for a long time.
Summarize: daily dishwasher use + proper maintenance = extend the life of tableware
High-quality stainless steel cutlery is perfectly suitable for daily dishwasher use. As long as you follow the above suggestions, you can make your cutlery always look as good as new and durable for a long time.
Why Fangyuan Stainless Steel Cutlery?
As one of the Chinese stainless steel cutlery suppliers, Fangyuan has over 30 years’ industry experience in stainless steel knives, forks and spoons, cutlery sets and silverware. Besides providing good-quality wholesale cutlery, we are also willing to provide custom options like logo customization, pattern engraving, exclusive packaging and color matching customization for overseas customers to meet the diversified needs of hotels, brands and distributors.
We employ food-grade 304 (18/10) stainless steel, supported by the latest PVD coating, electroplating technology and mirror polishing to ensure that our products consistently outclass the market in appearance, corrosion resistance and lifespan.
As a restaurant chain, wholesaler or hospitality buyer, Fangyuan will be your best partner.
