Is it okay to wash knives in the dishwasher? Why is hand washing preferable?

August 21, 2023

Introduction

The question of whether it's acceptable to wash knives in the dishwasher or if hand washing is a better choice deserves a clear answer. To state it outright, under no circumstances should knives be placed in the dishwasher. This holds true even for knives marked as "dishwasher safe."

Why Avoid the Dishwasher

Let's delve into the reasons why knives should not be put in the dishwasher and why hand washing is advised. The main reasons include:

Risk of Blade Damage: Dishwashers vibrate during their wash cycles, which increases the chance of knife blades colliding with hard surfaces inside. While some dishwashers are equipped with soft mats or padding, this does not ensure safety for your knives.
Potential for Rusting: Knives are made from various materials, such as stainless steel and carbon steel. Although stainless steel is resistant to rust, dishwasher detergents are typically alkaline or contain strong cleaning agents that can cause even stainless steel knives to rust. Carbon steel knives are already susceptible to rust, and placing them in the dishwasher exacerbates this risk.
Risk of Handle Damage: Knives with wooden handles are particularly sensitive to sudden temperature changes and can be easily damaged by the heat drying or harsh cleaning conditions in the dishwasher. Other handle materials may also be vulnerable to damage when exposed to dishwasher washing.

Given these reasons, it's advised not to put knives in the dishwasher.

The Preference for Hand Washing

Hand washing your knives is the preferred method. After washing, it's crucial to thoroughly dry the knives and store them in a dry condition. Leaving them wet can lead to rusting, so drying them before storage is important.

While taking care of knives might seem tedious, they are valuable tools that require proper maintenance. Proper care of your knives directly impacts cooking safety and efficiency. To ensure delicious meals, give your knives the attention they deserve and maintain them appropriately.

Back to blog

Blog Author: Toru

-Professional background-
・Graduated from Tokyo Sushi Academy
・Sushi lesson instructor at Tsukiji Tokyo
・Making sushi at RC Show, one of Canada's largest Toronto food shows

Traditional Japanese knives, like those from Sakai City, are globally prized for their sharpness and elegance. Yet, Sakai's dwindling artisans pose a challenge to preserving this craft. To combat this, I'm dedicated to spreading the brilliance of Japanese knives worldwide. My dream is to sustain Sakai's legacy while meeting global demand.