You Shouldn't Put Wooden Utensils In The Dishwasher. Here's Why

No matter what you like to cook or bake, a wooden spoon can be your best friend. Wooden utensils don't scratch non-stick pans, they're great for mixing cake batters and cookie doughs, and they add a rustic touch to the overall aesthetic of your kitchen. There is, however, one aspect about them that is not quite as convenient: You can't put them in a dishwasher. 

This includes not only wooden spoons, spatulas, and other utensils, but also wooden cutting boards and rolling pins — anything that's wood based. According to The Spruce, wood is actually one of the worst materials to put in the dishwasher. If you plan on keeping your wooden kitchenware for years to come, wash them only by hand using a gentle detergent or diluted bleach. You may be tempted to let them soak to extract all remnants of food, but The Spruce advises against this as it can damage the wood and be just as bad as putting it in the dishwasher.

Wooden spoons are known for their scratch-proof nature, but once you put them in the dishwasher, they're no longer as effective, and that means they could damage your pots and pans. The Kitchn explains that it only takes five times in the dishwasher for a wooden spoon to lose its special slickness. This is due to the harsh combination of hot water and dishwasher detergent stripping away the natural oils of the wood. 

The more you continue to wash your wooden utensils in the dishwasher, the more they deteriorate. Food Network further elaborates that the dishwasher's drying cycle is just as bad as the washing cycle. The high direct heat during the drying cycle leads the wood to warp and crack over time. If you're unsatisfied with the disinfecting job of a quick hand wash, or find visible food stains, Food Network suggests scrubbing with some baking soda. But under no circumstances should you ever use the dishwasher.