Should you use the porcelain and crystal setting on your dishwasher? - Life in the South

Whether it's about brands of mayonnaise or enjoying deviled eggs, there are certain topics that can excite Southerners. We recently reached out to our audience on social media and asked them about their dishwashing habits and whether it was safe to put china, silver, and crystal in the dishwasher. Nearly 300 of you weighed in and since we didn't have a clear answer, we turned to the experts. They will help us (and you!) move closer to a consensus below.

Meet the experts

Soft vs. Normal cycles

Dishwashers have multiple settings, but if you're like me, you always use the same one. In fact, it wasn't until a few weeks ago that I was aware that my dishwasher had different settings. Kit Webb, sales representative for Sewell Appliance, explains that the porcelain/glass wash cycle (sometimes considered a gentle cycle) is actually a gentler approach to cleaning. "The cycle uses a lower water temperature and reduces the number of revolutions per minute (RPM) of the pump to reduce the force of the water on the dishes." Lower force is less abrasive on fragile items.

Photo: Getty

Webb points out that many dishwasher manufacturers recommend switching to powder detergent when using the gentle cycle because capsules and liquids contain too much detergent for the lighter cycle. Linh Calhoun, marketing director at Replacements, Ltd., agrees and recommends dividing rooms evenly. "This helps prevent damage caused by parts rubbing together and allows for more efficient cleaning as the water can reach all areas." She also suggests avoiding heat drying and allowing the porcelain to cool completely to preserve the delicate ornaments.

Lauren W Glenn

Dishwasher safety

Not surprisingly, Webb recommends sticking to items that are clearly marked as dishwasher safe. "Delicate glass and porcelain, as well as hand-painted or gold-decorated pieces, are likely to be too fragile, which can result in chipping or discoloration." Instead, it's best to hand wash it.

Calhoun says there are other things you can do to maintain good dishwashing habits, especially in family rooms:

• Remove all jewelry as some pieces (e.g. diamonds!) can scratch the inside of glass items.
• For extra protection, cover the bottom of the sink with a kitchen towel or rubber mat.
• Fill your sink with lukewarm or lukewarm water and add a mild detergent. Avoid lemon-scented products or bleach as they can damage delicate surfaces.
• Wash one piece at a time.
• Pro Tip: Keep the faucet handle away from the washing area to avoid accidental chips or scratches.

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Additional tips for caring for porcelain and crystals

Experts across the board agree that regular use is the best way to keep delicate parts clean and in top condition. "China is designed to be used and prolonged storage in areas with uncontrolled temperature and humidity can negatively impact tooth enamel, making it brittle and potentially causing cracks," says Calhoun. If you don't use your dishes for a long time, take them out of storage at least once a year to wash them properly. This annual maintenance prevents contaminants from building up in the tooth enamel and helps maintain its strength. "But of course we always say: use the right things. Don't save it. May it bring you and your family joy! »

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