6 Things You Can Wash in the Dishwasher That Aren’t Dishes

Your dishwasher may be one of the hardest-working appliances in your home, but chances are, you’re only using it for plates, cups, and cutlery. This kitchen staple can tackle way more than that, though. From bath toys to sports gear, a dishwasher can help clean a variety of household items that rarely get the attention they deserve — just be sure to check care instructions before loading them in.

Beauty and Personal Care Tools

Hairbrushes pick up more than just loose locks: Over time, hair products, natural oils, dust, and dead skin cells accumulate in them. If you want to clean them in the dishwasher, start by pulling out any trapped hair and clearing debris from the bristles, then pop them in the top rack. (Never put brushes with wooden handles or natural bristles in the dishwasher, though, since the heat and moisture can damage them.) 

Other personal care items like metal manicure tools can go through a dishwasher cycle in the utensil section to help remove buildup and everyday grime. Dry them thoroughly to prevent rusting. 

Lastly, the reservoir of your water flosser may also be safe to clean in the dishwasher. Since they’re constantly exposed to moisture, they can accumulate mineral deposits over time. The New York Times advises sticking them on the top rack of your dishwasher, removing them before the heated drying cycle, and allowing them to air-dry completely before reassembling the device.

Baseball Caps

A sweaty, dirty baseball cap doesn’t always require a run in the washing machine. In fact, the dishwasher can be a surprisingly good alternative: It will help clean away grime without flattening the hat. All you need to do is place it in the top rack in either a special plastic frame or on one of the prongs to hold it in place. You should avoid detergents with bleach or citric acid, and skip the heated-dry setting in favor of air-drying.

Cabinet Knobs and Handles

The hardware in your kitchen and bathroom is touched countless times throughout the day, making it a magnet for fingerprints, grime, and germs. Metal knobs, pulls, and handles — especially if they have grooves or crevices — can be refreshed in the dishwasher if they’re made of a dishwasher-safe metal or ceramic. Just place small pieces securely in a mesh bag or the utensil holder to prevent them from slipping through the racks.

Sports Equipment

Between practices, games, and time spent outdoors, sports equipment can accumulate plenty of sweat, dirt, and grime. According to Whirlpool, certain items — including shin guards, mouth guards, protective cups, and even golf balls — can often be cleaned in the dishwasher. Golf balls should be placed in a mesh bag or enclosed container on the top rack to keep them from rolling around during the wash cycle.

Light Fixtures

Certain nonporous home décor items, including vases, sturdy soap dishes, and light fixtures, can often be cleaned in the dishwasher. Glass light fixtures should be placed in the top rack far enough apart that they don’t rub together. Forgo the heated cycle, and make sure not to put them back in place until they’re completely dry. Whirlpool advises against putting antiques, hand-painted pieces, and anything with delicate finishes that may not withstand high heat in the dishwasher. 

Bath Toys and Kids’ Accessories

If you have grandkids, you know bath toys with small holes can get gross fast, since trapped water can lead to mold and mildew growth. If the bath toys you have are labeled dishwasher-safe, place them on the top rack and run a hot cycle to help remove buildup. Some small plastic baby items, including teething toys and pacifier holders, can often be cleaned the same way. But before placing them in the dishwasher, check the manufacturer’s instructions and make sure they don’t contain any electronic components.

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