Are Refrigerator Drawers Dishwasher Safe? Expert Guide

When it comes to cleaning kitchen items, we all love the convenience of throwing them into the dishwasher. But have you ever wondered if your refrigerator drawers can go in there too? Well, you’re not alone! Many people want to know whether it’s safe to clean their fridge drawers in the dishwasher or if they need to wash them by hand. In this article, we’ll dive into the details of whether refrigerator drawers are dishwasher safe, how to clean them, and what precautions you should take. Let’s get started!

What Are Refrigerator Drawers and Why Are They Important?

Refrigerator drawers are the shelves or compartments inside your fridge that are designed for storing fruits, vegetables, meats, or even beverages. These drawers are handy because they help keep food organized and fresh by providing separate spaces with different temperature settings. For example, crisper drawers are designed specifically for keeping produce fresh by controlling humidity levels.

The importance of these drawers goes beyond just storage. They are crucial for maintaining the overall cleanliness and hygiene of your fridge. If they aren’t cleaned properly, they can accumulate food spills, stains, and bacteria, which can impact the freshness of your food. But with so many different materials used in these drawers, it’s natural to wonder whether they can go in the dishwasher for a thorough clean.

Are Refrigerator Drawers Dishwasher Safe?

The short answer is: it depends. Not all refrigerator drawers are dishwasher safe. Some are made of materials that can handle the heat and water pressure of a dishwasher, while others can warp, crack, or get damaged in the process. Most refrigerator drawers are made of plastic, glass, or metal, and each material behaves differently when exposed to the dishwasher’s cleaning cycle.

Let’s take a closer look at the different types of refrigerator drawers and their dishwasher safety.

Plastic Refrigerator Drawers

Plastic is one of the most common materials used for refrigerator drawers. These drawers are lightweight, easy to clean, and relatively affordable. However, not all plastic is created equal. Some types of plastic can handle high heat, while others may warp or crack under the pressure of a dishwasher.

Most plastic refrigerator drawers are marked as dishwasher safe by the manufacturer. These drawers are typically made from high-quality plastic that can withstand the heat and water used in dishwashers. If your refrigerator drawer is made of high-quality plastic, you can safely put it in the dishwasher on the top rack, which is typically the safest spot for plastic items.

However, some plastic materials may not be durable enough to survive repeated exposure to heat and water. If your drawer shows signs of wear and tear, like cracks or discoloration, it’s better to wash it by hand to avoid further damage.

Glass Refrigerator Drawers

Glass refrigerator drawers are less common but still found in some high-end refrigerators. These drawers are often used in fridges with sleek, modern designs. Glass is a sturdy material that is resistant to stains and odors, making it a great option for keeping food fresh.

When it comes to washing glass refrigerator drawers, they are usually dishwasher safe. However, it’s important to check the manufacturer’s guidelines to be sure. Glass can sometimes crack or shatter under extreme heat, especially if there are sudden temperature changes, so be careful when placing glass drawers in the dishwasher.

To protect your glass drawers, place them on the top rack to avoid contact with other items that could cause them to break. Also, consider using a dishwasher with a gentle wash cycle to prevent any potential damage.

Metal Refrigerator Drawers

Some refrigerator drawers are made of metal, especially in commercial or high-end models. Metal drawers are typically more durable and resistant to scratches and dents. They are usually dishwasher safe, but there are a few things to consider before tossing them in the dishwasher.

If the metal drawer has a coating (such as enamel or a special finish), it’s essential to check the manufacturer’s recommendations. Some metal finishes can be damaged by dishwasher detergents or high heat. In this case, hand washing is a safer option.

Additionally, metal drawers can get very hot during the dishwasher cycle, which might cause warping or discoloration over time. If you decide to clean metal drawers in the dishwasher, always place them on the bottom rack and use a lower heat setting to reduce the risk of damage.

Drawer Materials to Avoid in the Dishwasher

There are a few materials you should avoid putting in the dishwasher altogether. These include:

• Wooden drawers: Wood can warp, crack, or swell when exposed to water and heat.
• Drawers with non-dishwasher-safe coatings: Some refrigerator drawers have special coatings that can get damaged in the dishwasher.

In these cases, it’s best to wash the drawers by hand using warm, soapy water.

How to Safely Clean Refrigerator Drawers

If you’re wondering how to clean your refrigerator drawers properly, there are a few steps you can follow to make sure they stay in good condition.

Step 1: Remove the Drawer

Before cleaning, make sure to remove the drawer from your refrigerator. Empty it of all food and make sure it’s completely dry. If you’re cleaning a plastic or metal drawer, you may want to remove any food debris or stains with a dry cloth first.

Step 2: Check the Manufacturer’s Instructions

Always check the manufacturer’s instructions before deciding whether to put the drawer in the dishwasher. If you don’t have the original manual, you can often find this information online by searching for your refrigerator’s model number.

Step 3: Washing Plastic and Glass Drawers

If the drawer is dishwasher safe, place it on the top rack of the dishwasher to avoid direct exposure to the heating element. Use a gentle wash cycle and avoid high-heat settings. After the cycle is done, inspect the drawer for any cracks or warping. If it seems fine, you can continue using it as usual.

Step 4: Washing Metal Drawers

For metal drawers, it’s best to wash them on the bottom rack of the dishwasher, as the bottom rack has a more intense spray, which can help remove tougher stains. However, use a lower heat setting to avoid potential damage to the metal.

If the drawer has special coatings or finishes, it’s recommended to wash it by hand to prevent any damage from dishwasher detergents.

Step 5: Handwashing Non-Dishwasher Safe Drawers

For drawers made of wood, ceramic, or other delicate materials, hand washing is your best bet. Use warm, soapy water and a soft sponge to clean the drawer. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the surface.

Once you’ve cleaned the drawer, dry it thoroughly before placing it back in the refrigerator to prevent moisture from building up inside the fridge.

Tips for Maintaining Refrigerator Drawers

To ensure that your refrigerator drawers last longer and continue to serve their purpose, here are some tips for maintaining them:

• Clean your refrigerator drawers regularly, ideally once a week or every two weeks, to prevent food buildup.
• Keep the fridge temperature in the proper range (typically between 35-38°F) to ensure food stays fresh and bacteria doesn’t build up.
• If you notice any cracks, warping, or discoloration in your drawers, replace them as soon as possible to maintain a hygienic fridge environment.

Regular cleaning and proper maintenance will keep your refrigerator drawers in good shape and ensure that your food stays fresh and safe.

I hope this article helped you figure out whether your refrigerator drawers are dishwasher safe and how to clean them properly. Keeping your fridge organized and clean is essential for food safety, and now you know how to do it with ease!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to put all refrigerator drawers in the dishwasher?

Not all refrigerator drawers are dishwasher safe. It depends on the material they are made from. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions to be sure.

Can plastic refrigerator drawers go in the dishwasher?

Yes, most plastic refrigerator drawers are dishwasher safe. However, make sure they are made from durable plastic that can handle high heat.

Do I need to remove the drawer before cleaning it?

Yes, you should always remove the drawer from the refrigerator before cleaning it to make sure it’s fully clean and dry.

Is it okay to wash glass refrigerator drawers in the dishwasher?

Most glass refrigerator drawers are dishwasher safe, but you should be careful with temperature changes to avoid cracking. Check the manufacturer’s instructions to be sure.

Can I wash metal refrigerator drawers in the dishwasher?

Yes, metal refrigerator drawers are generally safe to wash in the dishwasher, but you should use a lower heat setting to prevent damage to the finish.

Do I need to clean my refrigerator drawers regularly?

Yes, it’s important to clean your refrigerator drawers regularly to prevent food buildup and bacteria. Aim to clean them every one to two weeks.

Is it okay to use harsh chemicals to clean refrigerator drawers?

No, avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers to clean refrigerator drawers, as these can damage the surface and affect the freshness of your food.

Can I put wooden refrigerator drawers in the dishwasher?

No, wooden refrigerator drawers should never go in the dishwasher. Wood can warp or crack when exposed to heat and moisture.