How to Tell if Plastic is Dishwasher Safe

Plastic dishes are one of the most versatile and convenient options for everyday use. They are lightweight, affordable, and come in endless colours and designs that can match any kitchen theme.

However, not all plastic dishes are dishwasher safe; using a dishwasher could damage them or cause harmful chemicals to leach into your food. It’s essential to know how to tell if a particular plastic item is safe for use in the dishwasher before you put it in there.

First, you should understand the different types of plastics that exist. Here’s a definitive piece on how to tell if plastic is dishwasher safe.

Let’s dive right in!

What is the Meaning of “Dishwasher Safe”?

When a material is labelled “dishwasher safe,” the manufacturer has tested it and confirmed its ability to withstand high temperatures and detergents. Most dishwasher-safe plastics always have a symbol that indicates they stay in the dishwasher.

Other dishwasher-safe plastics indicate that they should be placed on the dishwasher’s top rack. If plastic isn’t labelled, do not assume it is dishwasher safe. It doesn’t matter whether it’s a transparent plastic water bottle or a plastic container from a supermarket.

Undoubtedly, there are situations where plastic is labelled as “dishwasher safe” but cannot withstand the detergents and high temperature the dishwasher generates. While some plastics require more gentle (special) dishwasher cycles, others are only top racks.

So, to be safe, always go through the manufacturer’s guide (user manual) before putting any plastic in the dishwasher. In addition, some glass container plastic lids are dishwasher safe. They’re polypropylene (PP) and can sit comfortably on the dishwasher top rack without melting.

However, checking the user guide before washing any lid in the dishwasher is paramount. That’s because some plastic lids have a special coating that needs to be dishwasher-safe.

Plus, overcrowding the dishwasher racks increases the drying time and obstructs thorough cleaning. So, always keep enough space between the dishes.

Which Plastics Are Dishwasher Safe?

Over seven types of plastics exist, but only three have enough heat resistance and are considered “dishwasher safe.” 

The types include:

• Type 2
• Type 4
• Type 5

All plastics labelled “dishwasher safe” are manufactured using either of the plastic types above. However, not all plastics made from the enlisted plastic types are dishwasher safe.

So, you must always confirm the manufacturer’s instructions before putting any plastic in the dishwasher.

Types of Plastics

Below is a description of the plastic types considered to be dishwasher safe:

• Type 2 Plastics

These plastic types are used for the production of juice and milk containers. They are HDPE (high-density polyethylene). The HDPE prevents chemicals from leaching chemicals into beverages or food, as it is a stable polymer.

• Type 4 Plastics

This plastic category is LDPE (low-density polyethylene). They’re flexible and used in making plastic wraps and food storage bags.

• Type 5 Plastics

These plastics are polypropylene (PP). They’re lightweight and durable. You’ll mostly find microwave-safe containers and condiment bottles produced with this type of plastic.

Generally, the most commonly used plastic for food storage containers is polypropylene (PP), which is dishwasher safe. This plastic’s temperature is 210° Fahrenheit, identified by the number 5 plastic recycling symbol.

Note that other plastic types not described here are not dishwasher safe and shouldn’t be put in the dishwasher. Instead, wash the plastics with your hand.

How to Wash Plastic in a Dishwasher

You should know these tips if you use dishwasher-safe plastics so they can go in and out of the dishwasher undamaged. They are:

• Some dishwashers have settings for plastics. If yours does, use it for better results. The setting allows you to use milder detergents and lower temperatures to avoid damage.
• Always place your plastic on the top rack whenever you’re washing it in the dishwasher, as it prevents the plastic from warping or melting from heat.
• Don’t use bleach or harsh chemicals to wash plastics in the dishwasher. If you do, the plastics will keep degrading.

Dishwasher Settings for Plastics

Ensure you wash all plastics, including those labelled “dishwasher safe,” on the top rack of the dishwasher. Washing them in the bottom rack will make them warp.

Place them at an angle in the dishwasher to avoid water accumulation on your plastics. The secret to a perfect clean is to place your dishes so that the dirtiest part is directly in front of the spray.

Below are the dishwasher settings for plastics:

• Heated Rinse

At the end of the washing cycle, the final rinse uses hot water to aid in quick evaporation, leaving the dishes dry. This setting is safe for all plastic containers.

• Fan Dry

This setting is safe for all plastics as it uses air circulating in the room to dry dishes, saving energy.

• Heat Dry

Here, an internal fan is responsible for the hot air circulation that dries the dishes. This setting is only safe for heat-resistant plastics like those labelled “microwave safe.” 

FAQs

Can I Sanitize Plastics in a Microwave?

No, sanitizing plastics in a microwave is not advisable because its heat can cause them to leach chemicals into food or even melt.

Is it Safe to Place plastic in the dishwasher?

If the plastic is labelled “dishwasher safe,” then it’s safe to place it comfortably in the top rack of the dishwasher. 

Otherwise, please do not attempt to place any plastic in the dishwasher, as it could melt from the heat generated during the washing cycle.

Can you Clean Plastic Baby Bottles in the dishwasher?

The most recommended way of cleaning a baby’s bottle is using a brush to clean it by hand. This cleaning method allows you to scrub all hidden areas of the bottle.

Notwithstanding, you can still clean your baby’s plastic cup or bottle in the dishwasher. But, you must first confirm whether the drinkware is dishwasher safe.

In addition, ensure you put them on the top rack and desist from using any harsh dishwasher detergent.