No, you should not put good kitchen knives in the dishwasher. The heat, harsh detergent and knocking against other items dull the edge, can damage or loosen the handle, and may cause rust or pitting, even on stainless steel. Hand-washing takes seconds and protects your knives. The only exceptions are cheap knives you do not mind ruining. This guide explains why knives should not go in the dishwasher and how to wash them properly.
No. The dishwasher’s heat, harsh detergent and knocking dull the edge, damage handles and can cause rust, even on stainless. Hand-wash and dry knives immediately instead; it takes only seconds.
Why Not the Dishwasher
- Dulls the edge: knives knock against racks and other items, bending and dulling the edge.
- Harsh detergent: dishwasher detergent is abrasive and corrosive, pitting even stainless steel over time.
- Heat and handles: high heat can crack, warp or loosen wood and some plastic handles.
- Rust: prolonged moisture and detergent can rust carbon and even some stainless blades.
- Safety: bare blades in the rack are a hazard when loading and unloading.
Key Takeaway: The dishwasher undoes all your other knife care at once: it dulls the edge, attacks the handle and risks rust, in a single cycle. Thirty seconds of hand-washing protects a knife that should last decades.
How to Wash Knives Properly
- Wash with warm soapy water and a sponge, blade facing away from your hand.
- Wipe along the spine, not across the edge.
- Rinse and dry immediately with a towel.
- Store the knife safely once dry.
See how to care for kitchen knives.
What About Cheap Knives?
You can put very cheap knives you do not care about in the dishwasher, but they will dull faster. For any knife you value, including budget favourites like the Victorinox, hand-wash it. See best budget chef knives.
Safety Notes
- Hand-wash with the blade away from your hand.
- Never leave knives in a sink of soapy water where they are hidden.
- Dry immediately to prevent rust.
- Store knives safely, not loose in a drawer.
FAQ
Can you put knives in the dishwasher?
No, not good knives. The heat, harsh detergent and knocking dull the edge, damage handles and can cause rust. Hand-wash and dry them instead.
Does the dishwasher really dull knives?
Yes. Knives knock against racks and other items and are exposed to abrasive detergent, both of which dull and damage the edge over time.
Are any knives dishwasher-safe?
Some cheap knives are labelled dishwasher-safe, but even these last longer hand-washed. For any knife you value, hand-wash it.
Bottom Line
Do not put good knives in the dishwasher; the heat, detergent and knocking dull the edge, damage handles and risk rust. Hand-wash and dry them in seconds to keep them sharp for years. See our how to care for kitchen knives guide.
