Washing Sterling Flatware in a Dishwasher

Is it safe to wash sterling flatware in the dishwasher? You will find many articles that state it is safe. But, you also see these caveats:

• Rinse food from the flatware immediately after use and before placing in the dishwasher
• Never let stainless steel and sterling touch each other - washing separately is preferred
• Avoid lemon-scented detergents and detergents with chlorides - use a mild detergent
• Never sprinkle detergent directly on the flatware - pitting could result
• Use a water softening agent if you have hard water
• Remove the flatware before the drying cycle - dry by hand with soft cloth

Having said all this, our preference is NOT washing sterling flatware in a dishwasher. Washing by hand with a mild soap immediately after use is our preferred method. See the post below about avoiding rubber gloves.

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