Dishwashers are essential for daily cleaning, but many people wonder whether stainless steel cutlery can be safely washed in them. This guide explains dishwasher compatibility for various types of stainless steel cutlery, helping you use and maintain them properly while extending the product’s lifespan.
All-Stainless Steel Cutlery
Generally Dishwasher-Safe (With Important Notes)
All-stainless steel cutlery, with no non-stainless components, can generally be placed in the dishwasher. Stainless steel is resistant to high temperatures, water pressure, and common dishwasher detergents.
However, proper use is crucial to prevent surface damage and minimize long-term wear. Cutlery should be placed neatly in the dedicated dishwasher basket. Overcrowding should be avoided, as friction and water flow impact may cause scratching, which can gradually dull the surface finish over time.
For titanium-plated, gold-plated, and other electroplated cutlery, no product is 100% fade-proof. Durability depends on plating thickness, material quality, and craftsmanship rather than simply a “dishwasher-safe” label.
Low-end electroplated cutlery typically withstands around 10–15 dishwasher cycles, after which plating may fade or wear noticeably.
Mid-range plating generally lasts 30–40 cycles and represents a balance between cost and durability. Huashun Factory’s best-selling titanium-plated cutlery falls into this category.
High-end plating can endure 60 to over 120 dishwasher cycles, but comes at a higher cost due to premium materials and refined manufacturing processes.
Plastic-Handled Cutlery
Dishwasher Compatibility Depends on Handle Material
The dishwasher suitability of plastic-handled cutlery depends heavily on the handle material. Common materials include PP, PS, and ABS, each with different heat resistance and safety characteristics.
PS (polystyrene) handles are not suitable for dishwashers with high-temperature disinfection functions. At temperatures around 60 °C, PS may release harmful substances, posing potential health risks.
PP and ABS handles are generally dishwasher-safe. PP offers heat resistance up to approximately 130 °C, which exceeds typical dishwasher operating temperatures of 70–90 °C. ABS is impact-resistant, dimensionally stable, and performs reliably under dishwasher conditions.
Printing & Heat Transfer
Fading Prevention and Usage Notes
(Over 50+ cycles)
For plastic-handled cutlery with printed patterns or logos, whether fading occurs depends on the printing process and its compatibility with the handle material.
PP and ABS handles are best matched with reinforced heat transfer printing. When properly processed, this method typically withstands more than 50 dishwasher cycles without visible fading.
PS handles with printed patterns usually use pad printing. These can also pass over 50 dishwasher cycles, but must be clearly labeled as not suitable for high-temperature disinfection dishwashers.
Huashun also offers custom hand-feel paint coatings for plastic handles, providing a matte texture and premium grip. These coated products are not dishwasher-safe, as dishwasher detergents may gradually erode the painted surface and affect appearance and durability.
