22 Unusual Things You Can Clean In a Dishwasher

Just because it’s called a dishwasher doesn’t mean that it can only wash dishes, you know? We’re not suggesting you chuck everything that needs cleaning in the dishwasher, cause there are some rules and regulations if you want this handy kitchen appliance to serve you for a long time, but there are some things you can do that will save you lots of time and effort. Be creative, think about what materials are your dishes and pans made of, think about other things that can withstand heat and you’ll probably figure it out. But just in case, here’s a list of things you can clean in a dishwasher that you probably haven’t tried to clean that way before.

1. Silicone Kitchenware
Silicone oven mitts, spatulas and cupcake and cake molds, silicone baking sheets – all these are completely safe to wash in the dishwasher and it’s a quick and easy way to keep them germ free.

2. Kitchen Brushes and Sponges
We use these every day to clean some dishes, but we never bother to actually clean these things. Just put them in the top section of your dishwasher or in the utensils compartment next time you run the dishwasher.

3. Fridge Compartments
Most of us don’t bother to wash the fridge as often as we know we should. All because you don’t want to do it by hand. Well good news – all those shelves and compartments and separators are usually dishwasher safe.

4. Microwave Turntable
How often does stuff bubble out, or explode in your microwave? If you’re anything like me – at least once a week. So here’s a trick – first just microwave a glass of water to get all the gunk lose, then pop the turntable into the dishwasher and wipe the inside of the dishwasher with a moist cloth.

5. Grill Rack
This is such a lifesaver, since it usually takes quite a while to wash the grill rack by hand. Just pop it in the dishwasher on the hot setting and forget about it. It’ll come out clean and shiny.

6. Vases
Vases are so difficult to wash. Just put them on the bottom section of the dishwasher upside down and it’ll be clean in no time. Obviously only do this with plain vases, none of that gold pleated stuff, cause all the patterns and designs will rub off.

7. Figurines
If you’re the type of person who likes collecting figurines but doesn’t have time to dust them every week – put them in the dishwasher. But again, make sure they’re plain not gilded.

8. Light Fixtures
The shades and cover on your light fixtures and laps can easily be washed in the dishwasher. No need to try and dust them, we know how weirdly sticky they can get.