Is It Okay to Wash Knives in the Dishwasher? Why Hand Washing Is Always Better

A Clear Answer

The question arises often: can knives be washed in the dishwasher, or should they always be cleaned by hand? The answer is unambiguous. A fine knife should never be placed in a dishwasher—even those labeled “dishwasher safe.”

Why the Dishwasher Harms Knives

A dishwasher may seem convenient, but it is a harsh environment for precision tools. Inside, blades rattle and collide against metal racks and other utensils, dulling the edge that craftsmen have carefully created. Detergents, formulated to strip away grease, are highly alkaline and can corrode even stainless steel, leaving behind stains or rust. For carbon steel knives, which already demand attentive care, this effect is even more pronounced.

Handles, too, suffer greatly. Wood swells and contracts under sudden changes in temperature, while resin or composite handles may weaken over repeated cycles of heat and detergent. What emerges from the dishwasher is often a knife that has lost both beauty and integrity.

The Case for Hand Washing

Hand washing, by contrast, preserves the essence of a knife. A gentle rinse with mild soap, followed by thorough drying, ensures that both blade and handle remain in their best condition. Taking a moment to wipe the blade dry is not simply maintenance—it is a small act of respect, an acknowledgment of the knife’s value.

Proper care rewards the cook with safety, sharpness, and joy in use. A well-kept knife glides through ingredients, elevating both the cooking process and the meal itself. To care for a knife by hand is to honor the craftsmanship within it, ensuring that it continues to serve faithfully for years to come.