Can You Put a Colander in the Dishwasher? Safety Guide

Stainless steel and silicone colanders are always dishwasher safe.

Plastic colanders need a dishwasher-safe symbol or PP/PA marking.
Aluminum, wood, and nonstick colanders should be hand washed.
Place any colander on the top rack to minimize heat exposure.

What Makes a Colander Dishwasher Safe?

The key factor is the material's heat tolerance. Dishwashers use water between 120 and 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Stainless steel withstands that easily. Silicone is also heat resistant up to 400 degrees. Plastic colanders vary widely. Polypropylene can handle the heat, but cheaper plastics may not. Look for a dishwasher-safe symbol on the bottom.

How to Check if Your Colander Is Dishwasher Safe

Start by flipping the colander over. Look for a symbol of plates or glasses with water droplets. That indicates dishwasher safety. Check the base for a material code like PP or PA. PP means polypropylene, which is generally safe. PA is nylon, also heat resistant. If you see no mark, test a small area first. Run a short cycle and inspect for warping or melting.

Stainless Steel vs. Plastic vs. Silicone Colanders in the Dishwasher

Stainless steel is the safest bet. It won't warp, melt, or stain. Plastic colanders are risky if they're thin or unmarked. High-quality plastic like polycarbonate is fine. Silicone colanders are flexible and heat safe. They also collapse for easy storage. Aluminum colanders are not recommended. They can oxidize and leave dark marks on dishes.

What About the Bottom Rack vs. Top Rack?

Place colanders on the top rack whenever possible. The top rack is farther from the heating element. This reduces heat exposure. Large colanders may only fit on the bottom. If so, angle them away from the heating coil. Avoid stacking heavy pots on top. That can bend the colander's shape.

When Should You Hand Wash a Colander?

Hand wash if the colander has a wooden handle. Wood can crack or warp in the dishwasher. Also hand wash colanders with nonstick coatings. The harsh detergent can degrade the coating. If your colander has fine mesh, hand washing prevents clogging. Dishwasher jets can push food particles deeper into the mesh.

Common questions

Can plastic colanders go in the dishwasher?

Some can, but not all. Check for a dishwasher-safe symbol or a PP or PA marking. If unmarked, wash by hand to avoid melting.

Will a colander melt in the dishwasher?

Yes, if it's made of low-quality plastic and placed on the bottom rack. The heating element can reach over 200 degrees, which is enough to warp or melt thin plastic.

Is it safe to put a stainless steel colander in the dishwasher?

Yes, stainless steel is completely dishwasher safe. It won't warp, rust, or leach chemicals. Just avoid mixing with aluminum to prevent discoloration.

Can silicone colanders go in the dishwasher?

Yes, silicone is heat resistant up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. It's safe on both racks and won't absorb odors.

What happens if you put a non-dishwasher-safe colander in the dishwasher?

It may warp, melt, or crack. The heat and detergent can also cause fading or chemical leaching. You might notice a distorted shape or rough edges.

How do I know if my colander is dishwasher safe?

Look for a symbol of a plate with water droplets or the words 'dishwasher safe.' Also check the material code on the bottom. PP, PA, and Tritan are usually safe.

Is it better to wash a colander by hand?

Hand washing is gentler and extends the life of any colander. It's especially important for aluminum, wood, or nonstick models. For stainless steel, the dishwasher is fine.

Can I put a colander with a rubber rim in the dishwasher?

It depends on the rubber's quality. Some rubber rims are heat resistant, others aren't. Check for a dishwasher-safe label. If unsure, place it on the top rack.