Will Dishwashers Damage Nonstick Coatings?

Non-stick skillet coatings make cooking easier.

Non-stick coatings on cookware have become increasingly durable since their introduction in 1951. Whether non-stick coatings can be safely cleaned in dishwashers depends on the type of non-stick veneer on the pans' interiors.

Coating Types

The extremely hot water of dishwashers may damage older pans coated with a light to dark brown non-stick coating. Common damage includes bubbling or peeling of the surface. Newer pans with tough, black or gray non-stick interiors that resist scratching from metal utensils are normally safe to clean in dishwashers.

Drawbacks

While the coating on newer pans can withstand most dishwasher temperatures and detergents, a white film frequently forms on the interior. This detracts from the appearance of the pan and may slightly affect the performance of the non-stick feature. Wiping pans with a soft cloth to remove the film immediately after removal from the dishwasher is helpful.

Considerations

Cooking over extremely high heat can compromise non-stick surfaces and make them more vulnerable to dishwasher cleaning. Manufacturers of non-stick pots and pans generally recommend hand washing to maintain the beauty of the cookware and prolong its life.

References

• RachaelRay: Cookware Care and Cleaning Instructions
• ChemHeritage: Roy J. Plunkett