Are Thermos Dishwasher Safe?

Thermos products including cups, mugs, and flasks are best suitable for storing food and beverages throughout the day. However, when it comes to washing these products, several questions arise in your mind.

Are thermos products dishwashers safe? How to know that your thermos products are safe to throw into the dishwasher? What could possibly happen if you put your thermos products inside the dishwasher and start a cycle? In this article, we will give you detailed information about its cleaning and washing process. So, without any further ado, let’s unravel everything.

What Will Happen If You Put Thermos in the Dishwasher?

Some manufacturers state that their products are dishwasher safe, but still many recommend using hands to wash them. Washing by hand helps to keep the impressive finish of the thermos. Why is it so?

Indeed, some products require extra care, and the thermos is one of them. Thermos products do not come with an interior coating. When you put thermos containers inside the dishwasher, they are more likely to procure the room between the inner and outer layer that gets filled with water. The heating element can damage your thermos inside out.

How Do You Know Your Thermos Are Dishwasher Safe?

Thermos is not new in the market. It launched the first-ever stainless steel vacuum insulated container. Earlier, there were rarely any vacuum insulated thermos products that were dishwasher safe. With technology and innovation, more and more manufacturers state that their products are safe to wash in the dishwasher.

You can figure out whether your thermos flasks, cups or any other products are safe or not by checking the official website of the manufacturer. Also, you can read the manual guide, where you will easily get direct care instructions.

Remember, it is absolutely inappropriate to use bleaching powder or other cleaner containing bleach on any thermos product. Likewise, do not use harsh detergents or hot water to wash your dirty thermos products. If you use them, they will ruin the original appearance. 

So, if you actually throw your thermos inside the dishwasher for a cycle, the results will vary. Ideally, if you have access to a dishwasher, simply put your thermos products only on its top rack. The top-racks of dishwashers will not affect your products. Accordingly, they will be fine and come out in the cleanest form, just as you would like to view.

However, it is not in the case of the bottom rack of a dishwasher. The bottom rack of the dishwasher is not thermos-friendly. As the heating element remains at the bottom of the dishwasher, it generates extreme heat that potentially smashes the vacuum insulation or vacuum seal of the thermos.

It can possibly crack due to heat generation during the cycle of drying. Hence, they can defect the vacuum seal of your thermos and restrain the insulation layer from working properly.

Some customers also choose the bottom rack to put their thermos and get clean products without any trouble. Yes, they say that it does not cause damage to the insulation.

So, if you want to be on the safer side, it is better to hand wash all your thermos and prevent them from being exposed to heat. It will not only help to increase the lifespan of your thermos but also keep the appearance unchanged.

Do The Dishwasher Covers Under the Warranty Period Cause Damages?

The manufacturers usually offer a five years warranty period on the vacuum insulation of stainless steel thermos. In the case of glassware products, they offer a 1-year warranty period on vacuum insulation.

You can get the benefit of this warranty cover in case the thermos loses the vacuum seal because of any manufacturing defects. However, you cannot acquire the benefit of warranty cover for wear and tear. The company will not replace or repair your thermos free of cost if you neglect, abuse, alter or use improperly. So, follow all the care instructions properly.

Similarly, if you keep thermos on the top-rack of your dishwasher and any mishap happens, it will come under warranty. If you put them on the bottom rack, it is doubtful to get warranty cover.

Besides, glassware thermos generally does not get a warranty cover if it gets broken in the dishwasher.

What Thermos Materials Are Dishwasher Safe?

1. Stainless steel: Stainless steel thermoses are generally dishwasher safe, as they can withstand high temperatures and are resistant to corrosion.
2. Glass: Glass thermoses are typically dishwasher safe but may require special care to avoid breakage.
3. Plastic: Some plastic thermoses are dishwasher safe, but it’s essential to check for specific dishwasher-safe symbols, as some plastics can warp or weaken in the dishwasher.
4. Vacuum-insulated: Vacuum-insulated thermoses often have multiple layers, making them more susceptible to damage in a dishwasher. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations before placing a vacuum-insulated thermos in the dishwasher.

Which Part Of The Thermos Is Dishwasher Safe?

The thermos lids have rubber and plastic materials that screw together. Therefore, the lid of all thermoses is entirely dishwasher safe. Here also you need to place them on the top rack of your dishwasher.

But, if you want to avoid the accumulation of mold, use your hands to clean them properly. Residual foods, liquids, and other particles can get into the trap of lid parts, rubber gasket, straws or container parts. Rubber gaskets are one of the primary spaces where molds can quickly accumulate.

Unless you peel off them with your hands, the dishwasher won’t be able to wash them away. Hand wash ensures to clean your products thoroughly. You can remove the gasket and scrub it nicely.

After that, keep it in a place to dry separately before you put them back together. Do it once in a week or two to avoid mold spores in the containers.

Alternative Way To Wash Thermos

If your thermos is not dishwasher safe or you prefer to clean it by hand, follow these stepsto ensure a thorough cleaning:

1. Gather supplies: You’ll need warm water, mild dish soap, a soft cloth or sponge, a bottle brush, and a towel for drying.
2. Disassemble the thermos: Remove the lid or cap and any removable parts like gaskets or seals.
3. Pre-rinse: Rinse the thermos and its components with warm water to remove any loose debris.
4. Wash with soapy water: Fill the thermos with warm, soapy water, and use the bottle brush to clean the interior. Be sure to get into any corners or grooves. Gently scrub the exterior and components with the soft cloth or sponge.
5. Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the thermos and its components with warm water until all soap residue is gone.
6. Dry the thermos: Leave the thermos and its components to air-dry on a towel or drying rack. Ensure that all parts are completely dry before reassembling to prevent any mold or mildew growth.
7. For stubborn stains or odors: If your thermos has stubborn stains or lingering odors, try using a mixture of baking soda and water. Add a few tablespoons of baking soda to the thermos, fill it with warm water, and let it sit for a few hours. Then, scrub the interior with a bottle brush and rinse thoroughly.

Conclusion

Determining if your thermos is dishwasher safe is essential for maintaining its functionality and appearance. By checking for dishwasher-safe symbols, consulting the manufacturer’s instructions, and considering the materials, you can ensure the proper care of your thermos. Remember that some parts of the thermos may be dishwasher safe while others are not, and always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to avoid voiding the warranty.

If your thermos is not dishwasher safe, or you prefer to clean it by hand, the alternative cleaning method provided will help you keep your thermos clean and well-maintained. By taking the time to properly care for your thermos, you can extend its lifespan and continue to enjoy your favorite hot or cold beverages on the go.

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