Alright, let’s start with the big question on your mind. You’ve just finished your fancy dinner, lit a candle (maybe two), and now you’re staring at your beautiful copper pans thinking, “Eh, should I just toss it in the dishwasher and call it a night?”
I feel you. No one wants to hand-wash dishes after cooking, especially when that takeout menu is calling your name for tomorrow. But before you go loading that copper into the dishwasher like it’s a regular old plate, let’s pause.
Spoiler alert: The short answer is — it’s probably not a great idea.
Why? Oh, we’re getting into it. Let’s talk about what actually happens when copper takes a spin in the dishwasher.
What Happens When You Dishwasher Copper? (It Ain’t Pretty)
Imagine this: copper + dishwasher = a not-so-shiny, kinda dull, maybe even greenish disaster.
See, dishwashers are like wild washing storms. The high heat, the abrasive detergents, the steamy moisture — it’s a harsh environment in there. Copper? It’s a soft metal. Kinda like the sensitive artist of the kitchenware world. It scratches easily, it hates acidic environments, and it does not appreciate being treated like a regular plate.
So, when you toss it in the dishwasher, here’s what you might notice:
That pretty shine? Gone.
Weird tarnish or dark spots? Yep.
Greenish or blue corrosion (aka patina)? Uh-huh.
And worst of all? Sometimes the protective coating on modern copper cookware wears right off. After a few washes, that gorgeous piece starts looking like something you dug up at an antique market — and not in a cute, vintage way.
What About “Dishwasher Safe” Copper?
Ah, the tricky label trap.
You might’ve seen copper mugs or pans labeled “dishwasher safe.” And sure, some modern copper items come coated with a protective lacquer that’s supposed to stand up to dishwashers. But here’s the thing — over time, even that coating can break down. It’s like rolling the dice every time you hit “start.”
If you’re attached to that shiny, golden look (and let’s be honest, you probably are), it’s best to keep it old-school and hand-wash it.
Also — some copper cookware has a tin or stainless steel lining inside. That lining can be sensitive too, especially to dishwasher detergents. So even if the outside looks fine, the inside might not be holding up as well.
How Should You Clean Copper?
Glad you asked.
Here’s the simple way to keep your copper looking gorgeous:
Use warm water and mild dish soap. No bleach. No harsh scrubbers.
Skip the steel wool. Instead, use a soft sponge or cloth.
Dry it immediately. Don’t let it air-dry or sit wet — that’s how spots form.
Want that shine back? Use a homemade polish (like a little vinegar, salt, and flour paste) or one of those gentle copper cleaners. Rub it on, rinse, dry, and admire your shiny masterpiece.
It’s honestly kinda satisfying — way more than just tossing it in the dishwasher and crossing your fingers.
Final Verdict: Dishwasher + Copper = Not BFFs
Let’s wrap this up: can you put copper in the dishwasher?
Technically? You can.
Should you? Nope. Not if you care about keeping it pretty, useful, and long-lasting.
If you’ve got a special copper piece — think heirloom pans, those trendy Moscow Mule mugs, or even decorative kitchenware — show it some love. A quick hand-wash today saves you from buying a new one tomorrow.
Dishwashers ruin copper’s shine and finish.
Even “dishwasher safe” copper can degrade over time.
Hand-wash with warm water, soap, and a soft cloth.
Want it to stay shiny? Polish it now and then.
So next time you’re cleaning up, maybe give your copper gear a spa day at the sink instead of a rollercoaster ride in the dishwasher. Your kitchen will thank you later.
Want more no-nonsense kitchen advice like this? Stick around. We’ve got answers to all those little questions you didn’t even know you needed to ask.
