Should Paring Knives Go in the Dishwasher?
Grandma always said to wash and dry paring knives by hand to avoid rust and dullness on the blade. Thanks to technological advances, however, most recently manufactured paring knives are dishwasher-safe. Does this Spark an idea?
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A New Grip on Things
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Most knives made prior to the last couple of decades had wooden handles, which retain water and are highly susceptible to warping and mold. Experts suggest washing and thoroughly drying all wooden kitchen components by hand. Most modern knife handles are made of plastic or stainless steel, both of which are dishwasher-safe.
Stainless Steel vs. Carbon Steel
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Carbon steel has long been used to make blades, as it is easy to sharpen, holds an edge well and is relatively cheap. It is not dishwasher-safe, however, as carbon steel corrodes easily. Most knives used today are made with stainless steel, which through the use of metal alloys is highly resistant to corrosion and dulling. Stainless steel is dishwasher-safe.
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Still on the Fence?
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Many knives made of stainless steel will say so on the blade, but if you can't confirm the composition of your knife, it is best to wash it by hand. Some manufacturers even recommend washing dishwasher-safe stainless steel knives by hand. Ceramic blades, which arguably cut the most precisely, are too fragile to be cleaned in a dishwasher.
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