How to Clean Dishwasher Safe Household Items
How to Clean Dishwasher Filters, Toys, and More
The dishwasher is your trusty kitchen companion. It tackles mountains of dirty dishes, saving us countless hours of scrubbing. But did you know this appliance can clean more than just plates and silverware?
From tackling everyday messes to cleaning surprising household items, your dishwasher can be your secret weapon in the war against grime.
Discover 13 unexpected ways to utilize your dishwasher for a deeper clean, making your life easier and saving you time.
Remember, always consult your dishwasher's manual before attempting any of these methods, as some materials or items might not be dishwasher-safe.
1. Stove Knob Covers and Oven Grates
Those greasy stove knob covers and grimy oven grates can be a nightmare to clean by hand. And now you won't have to. Toss them in the top rack of your dishwasher for an easy and effective clean.
For stubborn grime, pre-soak the knobs in hot, soapy water for 30 minutes before placing them in the dishwasher.
2. Plastic Toys
Kids' and pets' toys are notorious for harboring germs. Instead of spending hours scrubbing, toss washable plastic toys - after checking for dishwasher-safe labels - into a mesh laundry bag and place them on the top rack of your dishwasher.
After they're clean, you can rest assured your children and pets aren't touching days or weeks old germs.
3. Refrigerator Shelves
Over time, refrigerator shelves can accumulate spills, stains, and smelly odors. Most glass or plastic refrigerator shelves are dishwasher-safe.
Remove them, place them on the top rack, and let the dishwasher work its magic.
4. Dishwasher Filter
While your dishwasher cleans your dishes, it also needs periodic cleaning itself. Most dishwashers have removable filters that trap food particles and debris.
Here's how to clean dishwasher filter. Clean these filters regularly according to your dishwasher's manual, and give them a deep clean in the dishwasher. Remember to read the manual to ensure the filter is dishwasher-safe.
5. Vent Covers
Household vent covers accumulate dust and grime, which can restrict airflow or spread dust around your home. Luckily, many metal vent covers are dishwasher-safe.
Remove them, detach any filters, and run them on a gentle cycle to remove dust and debris.
6. Light Switch Plates and Outlet Covers
Light switch plates and outlet covers can become grimy with fingerprints and dust. Most plastic covers are dishwasher-safe. Remove them after turning the switch off, put them in a mesh laundry bag, and run them on a gentle cycle.
7. Artificial Flowers
Artificial flowers can accumulate dust, making them look dull and lifeless. Check the material of your artificial flowers – some may be dishwasher-safe.
If so, place them loosely on the top rack (covered with a mesh bag for delicate flowers) and run a gentle cycle. Let them air dry completely before displaying them again.
8. Sports Gear Pads
Sports gear like shin guards, elbow pads, and knee pads can get smelly and dirty. Many removable pads are dishwasher-safe, but check the material and manufacturer's instructions to be sure.
Place them on the top rack and run a gentle cycle with a little dish soap. Let them air dry completely.
9. Makeup Brushes
While some makeup brushes might be dishwasher-safe, this method requires caution.
Place only synthetic brushes - not natural hair brushes - in a mesh laundry bag and run a gentle cycle with a mild dish soap. However, a hand-washing method with a gentle cleanser might be a safer option for most brushes.
10. Paint Brushes
Similar to makeup brushes, some paint brushes might be salvageable with the dishwasher's help. Only clean brushes with synthetic bristles - not natural hair - by placing them in a mesh laundry bag and running a gentle cycle with no soap.
However, for most paint brushes, a hand-washing method with warm water and a gentle cleanser might be preferable.
11. Pet Food and Water Bowls
Pet food and water bowls can harbor bacteria. Most stainless steel or ceramic pet bowls are dishwasher-safe. Place them on the top rack for a deep clean and disinfection.
12. Shower Caddy
Shower caddies made of plastic or silicone can accumulate soap scum and mildew.
Check the material and make sure the caddy is dishwasher-safe. Disassemble it by removing any detachable parts and place it on the top rack for a refreshing clean.
13. Microwave Cleaning Hack
Microwave turntables can become greasy and spattered with food debris. Most glass turntables are dishwasher-safe. Place it on the top rack of the dishwasher for a deep clean.