So, you’ve cooked up something amazing in your favorite enameled cast iron pot—maybe a hearty stew or that slow-cooked chili everyone loves. Dinner was a hit, but now you’re staring at the dirty pot thinking, “Ugh, do I really have to scrub this by hand? Can’t I just throw it in the dishwasher and be done with it?”
Ah, the eternal question for cast iron lovers. Let’s get into it.
Can you put enameled cast iron in the dishwasher?
Technically… yes. But should you? That’s where it gets tricky.
Enameled cast iron, like your Le Creuset or Staub, is built to be tough. The enamel coating protects the iron from rusting, so in theory, it can survive a dishwasher cycle. The problem is that dishwashers are not exactly gentle. The high heat, harsh detergents, and constant water pressure can wear down that glossy enamel over time.
And once the enamel starts to chip or dull? There’s no going back.
What’s the big deal with dishwashers and enamel?
Here’s the thing: dishwashers use detergents that are a lot harsher than what you use for handwashing. They’re designed to cut through grease on plates and pans, but that same power can slowly strip the shine off your enamel. Not only that, the constant banging around of other dishes can lead to chips or scratches.
Imagine spending good money on that gorgeous pot, only to have it lose its luster because of a few lazy washes. Not worth it, right?
So, what’s the safer way to clean it?
Don’t worry, cleaning enameled cast iron by hand isn’t as bad as it sounds. In fact, it’s pretty easy:
Let it cool (don’t pour cold water in a hot pot—thermal shock can crack the enamel).
Use warm water with mild dish soap.
Scrub gently with a soft sponge or nylon brush—skip anything abrasive.
Soak for a bit if something is really stuck on, but avoid using metal scouring pads.
Dry thoroughly so no water spots form.
For stubborn stains, a paste of baking soda and water works wonders. You can even simmer water with a bit of baking soda in the pot, then wipe it clean.
What about the dishwasher for occasional use?
Alright, so maybe you’re thinking, “I’ll just do it once in a while—what’s the harm?” Honestly, if you’re in a pinch and run it through the dishwasher a few times, it’s not going to explode or anything dramatic like that. But repeated exposure? That’s where the long-term damage sneaks in.
It’s like putting a fancy sweater in the dryer—sure, maybe it’s fine the first time, but keep doing it and you’ll regret it.
Imagine this…
You’ve had that enameled cast iron for years, and it still looks stunning because you gave it just a little extra care. No chips, no dull patches, no regrets. You whip it out at dinner parties, and everyone’s impressed—not just with the food, but with how beautiful your cookware still is.
All it takes is a couple of minutes of handwashing. Totally worth it.
So, is enameled cast iron dishwasher safe? Technically yes, but it’s not the best idea. If you want to keep that enamel shiny and chip-free, stick to handwashing. It’s quick, easy, and your pot will thank you by lasting practically forever.
Have you ever risked the dishwasher with yours? Did it survive, or did you have a cookware tragedy on your hands? Share your story—I’d love to hear it!
