Should you use kitchen knives that have been ruined in the dishwasher?
by Pete Lader August 02, 2023
Have you ever accidentally put kitchen knives in the dishwasher and noticed they have rusting or brown spots after the wash?
(Image credit: Maria Siriano)
Most high-end kitchen knives are not meant to be put in the dishwasher because the chemicals and water pressure can (and most likely will) damage the knives. You may see water marks or brown spots on the kitchen knives, indicating they've been damaged during the wash cycle. The next thing you thought to yourself was....is it safe to use after you notice this?
Using kitchen knives that have been damaged or ruined in the dishwasher is no fun... and it can be problematic with continued use. If the knives are visibly damaged, dull, or corroded, they will not cut as well and could also be potentially unsafe to use for meal preparation.
What happens when you use these damaged knives?
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Dull Dishwashers can dull the edges of knives, leading to the inability for the knives to do what they are meant to do... which is cut! Dull knives can require more strength and force to cut, thereby increasing the risk of the knife slipping and unfortunately, injuring yourself or a loved one.
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Corrosion Some kitchen knives, particularly those made of materials like carbon steel, can rust or corrode if improperly washed in a dishwasher. The high water pressure from the dishwasher can lead to the kitchen knives with rust and/or corrosion.
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Sanitation Issues If a knife is damaged and leads to cracks or crevices, it may create a pool of bacteria, which can be a food safety issue. Using corroded knives can contaminate food while you are using the knife.
- Handle Issues The dishwasher can also impact the handle. The power of the water in some dishwashers can loosen the handle from the rest of the knife, causing unsafe conditions for the knife to be used.
If your knives have been ruined in the dishwasher, it is highly recommended to restore them (sharpen if dull, remove minor corrosion) or completely replacing them if the damage is too severe. Using rusted kitchen knives may not lead to an issue right away, but it will undoubtedly cause issues as you continue to use them.
Our Friendly Advice
Read and follow the manufacturer's care instructions for your knives. If your kitchen knife did not come with clear instructions, reach out to the brand or retailer directly. When in doubt? Hand-wash with mild soap and warm water is often the safest choice for maintaining the quality and performance of your kitchen knives.
If you are in the market for replacing your knife or knife set, you can qualify for a one-time discount with Premium Home Source. Just send us a picture of your old rusted/damaged knife and we'll send you a code!
