Dishwasher or Handwash? How to Clean Stainless Steel Pots & Pans

Stainless steel pots and pans are the unsung heroes of the kitchen — sleek, sturdy, and built to last. But one of the most common questions we hear from Aussie households is: can you put stainless steel in the dishwasher, or should you stick to handwashing?

It’s a fair question. While stainless steel is designed to resist rust and stains, even the toughest cookware can lose its shine or develop marks if it’s not cleaned correctly. The good news? With the right care and the right cleaning products, you can keep your stainless steel cookware looking brand new for years to come.

Below, we break down when to dishwash, when to handwash, and how to clean stainless steel pots and pans the smart way.

Why Stainless Steel Needs Special Care

Stainless steel is incredibly durable because it contains chromium, which forms a thin “passive” layer that protects it from corrosion. But that protective barrier can be damaged by harsh detergents, salt, or even prolonged exposure to moisture, all of which are common in dishwashing environments.

That’s why understanding how to clean stainless steel is just as important as knowing what to clean it with.

When cared for properly, stainless steel cookware can last decades, resist scratches and stains, and even develop a natural non-stick patina over time. When cared for poorly, it can lose its shine, develop rainbow discolouration, or show water spots that dull its mirror finish.

Can You Put Stainless Steel in the Dishwasher?

The short answer: yes, but not always.

Dishwashers can save time and water, but they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution for every piece of cookware. Here’s how to decide whether your stainless steel pots and pans are safe for the dishwasher:

When It’s Safe

You’re using high-quality stainless steel, such as 18/10 or 18/8, which resists corrosion and tarnish.

The cookware has no wooden handles, copper bottoms, or aluminium layers exposed.

You’re using a gentle, low-chemical dishwasher detergent that won’t strip away the protective chromium layer.

A product like our Auto Dishwasher Power is ideal as it’s specially formulated to cut through grease and food residue without using harsh caustic chemicals. It’s septic-safe, eco-friendly, and perfect for maintaining the natural sheen of stainless steel without streaks or residue.

When to Avoid the Dishwasher

If your pots have wooden, silicone, or plastic parts, these can warp under high heat.

If the cookware is non-stick or enamel-coated, as dishwasher detergents can degrade coatings.

If the pan is cheap or unbranded stainless steel as lower grades may rust or spot more easily.

If the base has a multi-layered material like copper or aluminium that’s visible, the dishwasher can cause electrochemical reactions, leading to dulling or pitting.

When in doubt, always check the manufacturer’s care instructions. Many cookware brands label their products as “dishwasher safe,” but that doesn’t mean it’s the best option for longevity.

What Happens When You Put Stainless Steel in the Dishwasher (and Do It Wrong)

Dishwashers are designed to blast away grease, grime, and food debris using a mix of high heat, powerful water pressure, and alkaline detergents. While that’s perfect for most everyday dishes, it can be a little too harsh for stainless steel if you’re not loading or washing correctly.

1. Dulling or “Rainbow” Stains

You might notice your once-shiny pots start developing a dull, cloudy surface or streaks that shimmer like a rainbow.

This happens when the protective chromium oxide layer on stainless steel reacts to:

• Excessive heat from “sanitise” or extra-hot cycles
• Harsh, high-alkaline detergents
• Detergent residue that hasn’t rinsed away fully

These discolourations don’t affect the safety of your cookware, but they do make it look tired and aged long before its time. Once dullness sets in, it can be difficult to restore the original shine.

2. Water Spots, Cloudiness, and Film

If your dishwasher has hard water, minerals like calcium and magnesium can dry onto the surface of your pots, leaving white spots or a cloudy film. This gets worse when:

• The rinse cycle isn’t thorough
• You leave cookware sitting in a closed dishwasher after the cycle ends
• You use a detergent with heavy fillers or caustic ingredients

Over time, these mineral deposits can build up and actually etch into the surface — meaning your cookware will never quite look “new” again. Using a gentle, low-residue formula helps prevent this.

3. Pitting, Rust Marks, or Orange Specks

If the protective layer is damaged (for example, by scratching, stacking with other metals, or using a strong caustic detergent), pitting corrosion can form. This looks like:

• Tiny orange or brown dots (rust marks)
• Rough, sandpaper-like patches
• Permanent “pits” that trap food and bacteria

These marks are a sign that the metal’s surface integrity has been compromised. Once pitting begins, it can spread, especially if the pan continues to be exposed to salt, moisture, or harsh chemicals in the dishwasher.

4. Metal-on-Metal Reaction (Galvanic Corrosion)

Stacking stainless steel next to aluminium, silver, or copper items in the dishwasher can trigger an electrochemical reaction called galvanic corrosion.

In simple terms, the metals “react” with each other, leading to black or dark grey streaks where they made contact. These stains are often permanent and can even damage the other items in your load.

5. Handle Damage and Warping

Wooden or plastic handles can crack, warp, or loosen in the dishwasher due to high water temperatures and prolonged drying cycles. Even stainless handles can loosen over time if repeatedly exposed to heat expansion and contraction.

Handwashing vs Dishwasher: Which Is Better?

Handwashing Pros

• Gentler on cookware and finishes.
• Lets you spot-clean burnt or stubborn areas.
• Reduces risk of corrosion, rainbowing, or spotting.
• Uses milder, more controlled cleaning agents.

The perfect pairing for handwashing is our Dish Power, a biodegradable, high-performance dishwashing liquid made to tackle grease and grime without stripping away shine. It’s tough on residue yet gentle on stainless steel and skin, with a naturally fresh fragrance that won’t leave a chemical smell on your cookware.

Dishwasher Pros

• Time-saving and water-efficient (modern dishwashers use less water than handwashing).
• Kills bacteria effectively through high heat.
• Convenient for busy households or large loads.

Ultimately, alternating between both is ideal. Use the dishwasher for your daily stainless steel pots and pans — and handwash premium or heavily soiled pieces for longer life and better shine.

How to Clean Stainless Steel Pots & Pans (Step-by-Step)

For Everyday Cleaning

1. Let the pan cool first. Sudden temperature changes can warp stainless steel.
2. Rinse with warm water to loosen food debris.
3. Add a few drops of OzKleen Dish Power to a soft sponge or cloth.
4. Gently scrub in circular motions — avoid harsh scourers or steel wool.
5. Rinse thoroughly and dry immediately with a soft towel to prevent water spots.

This gentle approach removes residue, preserves the shine, and keeps your cookware free from streaks or dullness.

For Burnt or Stubborn Food

1. Fill the pot with warm water and a tablespoon of baking soda.
2. Let it soak for 10–15 minutes.
3. Bring to a gentle simmer on the stovetop if the food is really stuck.
4. Once cool, use a soft cloth with Dish Power to remove remaining residue.
5. For especially stubborn spots, a white vinegar rinse can help restore brightness.

For Dishwasher Cleaning

If you’re popping your stainless steel cookware into the dishwasher, follow these best practices:

1. Pre-rinse lightly, remove excess oil and sauce to avoid film buildup.
2. Load carefully. Keep stainless steel items separated from aluminium, silver, or non-stick cookware.
3. Use OzKleen Auto Dishwasher Power for a streak-free, eco-friendly clean that’s gentle on metal.
4. Choose a gentle or eco cycle. Avoid extra-hot drying cycles that can dull finishes.
5. Open the door slightly after washing to let steam escape and prevent water marks.

This process helps you get that “out of the box” shine after every cycle — without corrosion, clouding, or residue.

Is 18/10 Stainless Steel Safe?

Yes, and it’s the best you can buy for cookware. The numbers refer to the chromium and nickel content:

• 18% chromium provides corrosion resistance.
• 10% nickel adds shine and durability.

Higher nickel content also means better dishwasher resistance. If your pots or pans are marked 18/10, they’re generally safe for regular dishwashing.

Considering the Most Eco-Friendly Option?

Stainless steel is one of the most sustainable cookware choices — durable, endlessly recyclable, and built to last for decades. When you care for it the right way, that same eco value can extend across your whole kitchen. You’re not only keeping your pots and pans in better condition for longer; you’re also reducing waste and protecting waterways with every wash.

Traditional dishwashing liquids and powders often rely on caustic agents, phosphates, chlorine, and synthetic fragrances. While effective at cutting through grease, these ingredients can:

• Corrode the protective layer on stainless steel
• Leave harmful residues on cookware that come into contact with food
• Contribute to waterway pollution once rinsed down the drain

Switching to biodegradable, non-caustic cleaners such as OzKleen Dish Power or OzKleen Auto Dishwasher Power keeps your cookware’s eco advantage intact from sink to cycle. These formulations are gentle on metal surfaces, tough on grease, and safe for the planet — helping you clean smarter, waste less, and enjoy cookware that shines for years to come.

Shop OzKleen For Your Dishwashing Needs

So, can you put stainless steel in the dishwasher? The answer is yes, when you do it right.

Stainless steel cookware is built to last, but even the toughest pots and pans need a little care to stay in top shape. Whether you prefer the convenience of a dishwasher or the precision of a good handwash, the real secret lies in how and what you clean with.

By using gentle, biodegradable cleaners like OzKleen Dish Power or OzKleen Auto Dishwasher Power, you’re not only protecting your cookware’s finish, you’re also choosing a safer, smarter, and more sustainable clean for your home.

Your stainless steel will stay gleaming, your kitchen will stay toxin-free, and your impact on the planet will stay low, proof that the best kind of clean is one that works for you and the environment.

Clean smarter, live better, and let your stainless steel shine for years to come. Shop OzKleen at your local Woolworths today.