17 Unusual Things You Can Clean in a Dishwasher

The parts that can be safely cleaned in the dishwasher include the lid, sealing ring, inner pot, and steaming rack. Cleaning these parts in the dishwasher ensures thorough sanitation, especially after cooking various dishes with different flavors and ingredients.

Over time, oven mitts accumulate stains and residues from cooking. Silicone oven mitts are dishwasher-safe and can be easily cleaned on the top rack. Cloth oven mitts can also be washed in the dishwasher, but check their care label for any specific instructions.

Cleaning tools like dish scrubbers and sponges need regular cleaning themselves to prevent the buildup of bacteria and germs. Placing them in the dishwasher, preferably on the top rack, ensures they're thoroughly sanitized and ready for future use. Long-handled brushes can also be placed in the utensil holder for convenient cleaning.

Trivets come in various materials such as stoneware, earthenware, and silicone. Many trivets are dishwasher-safe, particularly those made of heat-resistant materials — but avoid cleaning trivets with delicate decorations or finishes that may be damaged in the dishwasher.

Over time, food spills and splatters can accumulate on the turntable, requiring regular cleaning. Most microwave turntables are made of glass, which is dishwasher-safe. Check the microwave's owner's manual for any specific instructions or precautions before placing it in the dishwasher.

Refrigerator shelves and bins are prone to spills and food residues, which can lead to unpleasant odors and bacterial growth. While cleaning these by hand can be challenging due to their size and shape, many are dishwasher-safe — since they can be bulky, it may be necessary to run a dedicated load for these items.

Trash can lids and wastebaskets can become dirty and smelly over time, especially in high-traffic areas such as kitchens and bathrooms. Many plastic ones are dishwasher-safe and can be easily cleaned to maintain hygiene and freshness — just check the material and construction first to ensure they can withstand the dishwasher's heat and water pressure.

Over time, these bathroom accessories can accumulate soap scum, toothpaste residue, and bacteria. Placing them in the dishwasher, preferably on the top shelf, ensures thorough cleaning and sanitation, keeping your bathroom accessories hygienic and germ-free.

Hairbrushes and accessories such as ponytail holders and barrettes can harbor dirt, oil, and product buildup. Cleaning them in the dishwasher helps remove dirt and residue, restoring their cleanliness and functionality — remove as much hair as possible from the hairbrush first, and secure small accessories to prevent them from falling through the racks.

Over time, shower poufs can become breeding grounds for bacteria and mold due to their damp environment. Cleaning them in the dishwasher helps eliminate germs and odors. Place them on the top shelf to ensure thorough cleaning without damaging the delicate mesh material.

These can become contaminated with bacteria and debris over time, posing a risk to eye health and medication effectiveness. Cleaning them in the dishwasher helps ensure thorough sanitation — use the top rack to prevent damage from heat and water pressure.

Over time, vent covers accumulate dust, dirt, and debris, affecting indoor air quality and HVAC system efficiency. Cleaning them in the dishwasher helps remove built-up grime and improve airflow. Use a short cycle and promptly dry vent covers by hand to prevent rusting, especially for metal covers.

These cleaning tools can become dirty and contaminated with dust, dirt, and debris over time. Cleaning them in the dishwasher helps remove built-up grime and sanitize the surfaces. Use the top rack and a low-heat cycle for vacuum attachments with rubber rings or delicate components to prevent damage.

Pet bowls and toys can harbor bacteria and germs, posing a risk to pet health and hygiene. Plastic and metal pet bowls and toys are dishwasher-safe and can be easily cleaned for convenience — use a dedicated load for pet items to prevent cross-contamination with human dishes and utensils.

Flower and plant pots can become dirty and contaminated with soil, bacteria, and pests over time. Terra cotta and hard plastic planters are dishwasher-safe and can be easily cleaned — remove excess dirt and debris first to prevent clogging the dishwasher's drain.

Over time, hubcaps can become dirty and contaminated with road grime, brake dust, and debris. Cleaning them in the dishwasher helps remove built-up dirt and restore their shine. Rinse hubcaps beforehand to remove any large debris, and adding white vinegar to the rinse-aid compartment can help remove stubborn stains.

Golf balls can become dirty and contaminated with grass, mud, and debris during gameplay. Cleaning them in the dishwasher helps remove built-up dirt and restore their appearance and performance. Placing golf balls in a utensil holder or mesh lingerie bag prevents them from bouncing around during the dishwasher cycle and ensures thorough cleaning. It's important to run a dedicated load for golf balls rather than mixing them in with your regular dishes.