Copper Cookware and the Dishwasher: A Love-Hate Relationship
Ah, copper cookware—gleaming, classy, and beloved by chefs and home cooks alike for its excellent heat conductivity and sheer kitchen swag. But when it comes to cleaning, this shiny metal can be a bit diva. So, can copper cookware go in the dishwasher? Well, let’s be real: in most cases, you’ll want to keep your copper pots and pans far away from that harsh dishwasher environment.
Why so? The dishwasher’s combination of high heat, aggressive detergents, and powerful jets can mercilessly attack copper, leading to tarnishing, dulling, discoloration, and even surface damage over time according to 6ABC. Copper is a soft metal, and those abrasive dishwasher detergents are like the kitchen equivalent of sandpaper, eroding that beautiful finish you paid good money for.
The Tarnish Truth: Why Dishwashers and Copper Don’t Mix
When copper interacts with water and heat — especially the concentrated detergents in dishwashers — it reacts chemically and can develop a greenish or black tarnish. This isn’t just an eyesore; it actually eats into the metal, compromising your cookware’s longevity.
The water jets can also cause micro-scratches, dulling the polished surface and giving your cookware a weathered look that screams “I’ve been through the dishwasher wars.” If you love that copper shine like a pirate loves treasure, trust me, hand washing is your BFF.
Hand Washing: The TLC Copper Craves
The recommended approach? Warm water, a mild dish soap, and a soft sponge or cloth — none of that steel wool business, please. Rinse gently and dry immediately to avoid water spots. This care ritual keeps copper gleaming and prolongs the life of your beloved pans as advised by Team Clean.
If you spot tarnish you just can’t ignore, don’t fret. There are gentle copper cleaners and traditional remedies like lemon and salt or vinegar that can restore that lustrous look without resorting to the dishwasher’s chemical chaos.
But Wait, What About Copper-Clad or Copper-Layered Cookware?
Here’s where the plot thickens. Not all copper cookware is created equal. Some modern cookware sets feature copper layers sandwiched between or clad with stainless steel — these can be a dishwasher-safe exception (yep, exceptions exist!).
For example, the Anolon Nouvelle Copper Stainless Steel Set proudly advertises its dishwasher-safe credentials, thanks to that durable stainless steel exterior protecting the copper underneath. Similarly, Viking’s Copper-Clad Cookware also claims easy cleaning and dishwasher safety.
These hybrids combine the best of both worlds—the heat-conducting copper core with a dishwasher-friendly shell. But a word to the wise: always check your manufacturer’s care instructions. If it says dishwasher safe, fantastic! If not, avoid the risk.
Still Unsure? Manufacturer Guidelines Matter Most
When in doubt, read the label or instruction manual. The cookware makers know their metals (or at least should!). Some copper items are coated, lined, or have special finishes that withstand the dishwasher’s fury better than plain copper. Others firmly recommend hand washing.
Real-World Examples and Expert Opinions
Consumer reports and appliance experts almost universally agree: copper cookware and dishwashers don’t mix well. The Lake Appliance Repair blog outlines copper along with aluminum as materials that should be hand washed to avoid tarnish and corrosion.
Furthermore, the folks over at Borough Kitchen advise never placing copper pans in the dishwasher or exposing them to abrasive cleaning. Their tips highlight copper’s quick heating properties and vulnerability to harsh chemicals.
Scanpan’s website also warns that while their copper products can technically be cleaned in the dishwasher, it’s not recommended due to the potential shortening of the product’s life as per Scanpan. So “can you?” Sure. “Should you?” Nope.
Copper vs Other Cookware Dishwasher Safety
If the dishwasher debate has got you thinking about other cookware types, check out our detailed take on can you put ceramic cookware in the dishwasher? Spoiler: each material has its quirks and quirks mean specific care. This makes sense since your dishwasher is basically a high-pressure chemical spa treatment that not everything enjoys.
Summary: The Final Word on Copper in Your Dishwasher
So, what’s the takeaway? Unless your copper cookware is specifically designed and labeled dishwasher safe, steer clear of the dishwasher. Hand wash with gentle soap and a soft sponge, dry immediately, and if tarnish pets up, there are plenty of home-friendly polish tricks to restore that beautiful gleam.
If your cookware is a copper-stainless steel hybrid, then check those instructions. They might just let you live the dishwasher dream.
Your copper cookware deserves some pampering to stay gorgeous and perform like a champ for years.