6 Large Kitchen Appliances You Can (and Should) Be Washing In the Dishwasher

Why Large Kitchen Appliances You Can Wash In Dishwasher Make Cleaning Easier

Imagine the sizzle of a steak on the stove, followed by the daunting task of scrubbing grease-coated stove grates. It’s a kitchen mess many of us face, and hand-washing those large, greasy items can be both tedious and frustrating. But what if your dishwasher could handle more than just plates and glasses? Surprisingly, several large kitchen appliances and parts can go right inside the dishwasher. This method not only saves time but often delivers a deeper, more thorough clean than hand scrubbing. Embracing this trick turns your kitchen cleanup into a less greasy, more efficient routine.

Health Benefits & Nutrition of Proper Appliance Cleaning

Keeping your kitchen appliances spotless goes beyond aesthetics—it supports your health profoundly. Grease and grime buildup can harbor bacteria, mold, and allergens that degrade your kitchen’s hygiene. Thorough cleaning cuts down these risks substantially:

• Reduces harmful bacteria: According to a study by the Journal of Food Protection, thorough cleaning of kitchen surfaces helps prevent foodborne illnesses by removing pathogens.
• Prevents mold and allergens: Mold can thrive on moist appliances like dish racks or fridge drawers. Regular dishwashing removes mold spores and allergens, promoting better indoor air quality.
• Reduces lingering odors: Persistent smells from stove filters or racks can affect food flavor and air. Cleaning with hot water and detergent neutralizes these odors effectively.
• Promotes food safety: Deep cleaning helps reduce cross-contamination risks from residue left on appliances or shelves.

Always check manufacturer guidelines and use mild detergents, especially if sensitive to allergens. Pregnant individuals or those with respiratory concerns should maintain strict cleaning routines for appliance parts that trap grease and particles.

Ingredients & Preparation

Recipe Card

Prep Time	Total Time	Servings	Calories	Diet Tags
5 minutes	1 cycle (approx. 1-2 hours)	Varies by appliance pieces	0 (cleaning process)	Non-food items

Full Ingredient List

• Enamel-coated stove grates and caps
• Microwave turntables and trays
• Refrigerator shelves and drawers (dishwasher safe size)
• Range hood fan filters
• Plastic or metal dish drying racks
• Sink drain covers
• Dishwasher-safe detergent

Equipment Needed

• Dishwasher with adjustable racks
• Hot water connection
• Soft brush or sponge (for pre-rinsing)
• Owner’s manuals for your appliances (for safety references)

Tips for Choosing Quality Dishwasher-Safe Appliances

• Opt for enamel-coated metal parts—they hold up well in the dishwasher.
• Avoid raw or uncoated metals that rust easily.
• Confirm appliance components’ size fits your dishwasher rack comfortably.
• Refer to the appliance’s user manual to verify dishwasher compatibility.
• Choose sturdy plastic parts rated as dishwasher safe; avoid wooden or delicate items.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Pre-Rinse Loose Debris (5 minutes)

Before placing any appliance parts in the dishwasher, rinse them under warm water to remove large food particles or grease blobs. Use a soft brush for tough spots to prevent clogs or residue buildup during washing.

Step 2: Load Items Correctly into the Dishwasher (10 minutes)

Arrange items so they sit securely without crowding. Place stove grates and fan filters flat or on their sides where plates normally go. Lay refrigerator shelves on the bottom rack or flat on top, ensuring water jets reach all surfaces.

Step 3: Choose the Hot Water Wash Cycle (1-2 hours)

Use a heavy-duty or pots-and-pans cycle with hot water (around 140°F/60°C) to break down grease and grime thoroughly. Add a high-quality dishwasher detergent recommended for grease removal.

Step 4: Air Dry or Use Heat Dry Setting (30 minutes)

After washing, opt for an air dry or heat dry setting to ensure no moisture lingers, preventing mold or mildew growth.

Step 5: Inspect and Touch-Up (5 minutes)

Check cleaned items for any stubborn stains or grease. Use a sponge and mild detergent for any spots missed by the dishwasher.

Step 6: Reassemble and Store Clean Items

Once dry, reassemble your appliances or store cleaned parts safely until next use.

Variations & Substitutions

• Handheld Blender Blades: Instead of dishwasher cleaning, some blades require hand washing to preserve sharpness.
• Non-Enamel Cast Iron Stove Grates: Skip the dishwasher and use a specific cast iron cleaner to prevent rust.
• Wooden Dish Racks or Utensils: Substitute with plastic or metal racks when possible to wash in the dishwasher safely.
• Glass Refrigerator Shelves: Can generally be washed on a gentle cycle to prevent chipping or cracking.

Storage & Shelf Life

After cleaning, store dishwasher-washed kitchen appliances in a dry, well-ventilated area to prevent moisture buildup. Refrigerator shelves and drawers should be replaced immediately once dry to maintain fridge hygiene.

Dish drying racks or sink drain covers benefit from routine cleaning every 1-2 weeks depending on use. Signs that an item requires cleaning again include visible grease, sticky residue, or unpleasant odors.

Pro Tips

• Always verify that appliance parts are dishwasher safe to avoid damage or discoloration.
• Pre-soaking stubborn grease buildup for 10 minutes in hot soapy water can boost dishwasher cleaning power.
• Use eco-friendly dishwasher detergents to reduce chemical residues that might affect appliance surfaces.
• For stove fan filters, place them sideways on the top rack for best water and detergent coverage to break down greasy layers.
• Avoid overloading your dishwasher to ensure each item gets a proper rinse and wash.

When is the best time to use Large Kitchen Appliances You Can Wash In Dishwasher?

The best time is right after heavy cooking sessions when grease and residue are fresh and easier to break down. Running appliance parts through your dishwasher soon after use prevents buildup and keeps odors at bay while saving your hands from scrubbing.

Can all stove grates be washed in the dishwasher?

No, only enamel-coated stove grates and caps should go in the dishwasher. Raw metal grates can rust or discolor. Always check your stove’s manual before washing.

Is it safe to wash refrigerator shelves in the dishwasher?

Most glass and plastic refrigerator shelves are dishwasher-safe if they fit properly. Avoid placing shelves near heating elements to prevent warping or cracking.

How often should I clean my stove fan filters in the dishwasher?

For greasy cooking such as frying bacon or fish, clean stove fan filters every 1-2 months to prevent lingering odors and maintain fan efficiency.

Are wooden kitchen items dishwasher safe?

Wooden items like racks or cutting boards should not go in the dishwasher. The heat and detergent can cause warping and cracking. Stick to plastic or metal alternatives.

What detergent works best for cleaning large appliances in the dishwasher?

Use a strong dishwasher detergent specifically designed for grease removal. Eco-friendly detergents can also be effective and reduce chemical residues on appliance surfaces.

Can dishwasher cleaning damage my large kitchen appliances?

If the parts are dishwasher-safe and manufacturer-approved, the dishwasher won’t damage them. Overloading or using high-heat settings on delicate items may cause damage, so follow guidelines closely.

More Recipes You Will Love

Once your large kitchen appliances are sparkling clean, consider complementing your cleaner kitchen with foods that boost your health and energy. Try our Emergen-c powder recipe for a refreshing immune boost after a long day of cooking.

You might also enjoy homemade immune support with natural immune booster tablets. They’re easy to prepare and pair well with busy kitchen routines.

Conclusion

Washing large kitchen appliances in the dishwasher is a game-changer. This method saves you time, reduces grime, and even promotes a healthier kitchen environment. By knowing which items to safely wash and how to do it right, you can keep your kitchen shining with less effort. How do you tackle cleaning your big kitchen items? Feel free to share your tips, questions, or your dishwasher victories in the comments below!