Can You Wash Produce in the Dishwasher? Food Safety Experts Weigh In

Assorted fruits and vegetables being washed inside a dishwasher — Credit:
Malikov Aleksandr / Getty Images

Dishwashers are a workhorse appliance that sanitize utensils, cookware, dishes, and more, saving you time in the kitchen. Because of their cleaning power, you may be tempted to put your produce in the dishwasher to remove pesticides, dirt, and debris—a so-called hack that has made the rounds on social media more than a few times. While this is undoubtedly easier than scrubbing produce by hand, food safety experts recommend against it. Here's why.

Brittany Saunier, executive director at Partnership for Food Safety Education
Kimberly Baker, PhD, RD, LD, food systems and safety program team director at Clemson University Cooperative Extension
Tracey Brigman, EdD, MS, RDN, LD, clinical associate professor and associate director for National Center for Home Food Preservation at the University of Georgia

Can You Wash Produce in the Dishwasher?

Despite what you may have seen online, food safety experts say there are no instances in which you should wash fruits and vegetables in the dishwasher. "We do not recommend washing fruits and vegetables in the dishwasher because of concern for cross-contamination from soap residue that is likely not safe for consumption," says Brittany Saunier, executive director at Partnership for Food Safety Education. "The best way to prepare your produce is to rinse it or scrub it under running water before eating."

Risks of Washing Produce in the Dishwasher

There are no circumstances when washing produce in a dishwasher is considered safe. "The potential risks—including chemical contamination, microbial hazards, and damage to product quality—far outweigh any perceived benefits," says Kimberly Baker, food systems and safety program team director at Clemson University Cooperative Extension.

Dishwasher Detergents Aren't Food-Safe

Dishwasher detergents and rinse aids are meant for cleaning dishes and other food-contact surfaces—not for direct contact with food. "When produce is washed in a dishwasher, these chemicals can be absorbed into the flesh or remain on the surface, creating a risk of chemical contamination if consumed," says Baker.

Increased Mold Risk

Increased levels of molds and yeast can occur on produce when it's washed in the dishwasher. "A closed dishwasher creates a steamy environment that, along with darkness, encourages mold growth," says Tracey Brigman, associate director for the National Center for Home Food Preservation at the University of Georgia.

Cross-Contamination From Water and Food Debris

Most dishwashers recirculate water, so spoilage or harmful microbes are not reduced during the cycle, says Brigman. Additionally, food particles tend to remain in the dishwasher from cycle to cycle, which could cause sickness or allergic reactions due to cross-contamination, Brigman warns. Unless you clean and sanitize your dishwasher regularly, it can harbor food particles and bacteria that may contaminate your produce.

Damaged Produce

Additionally, your produce likely won't come out of the dishwasher looking as appetizing as it did going in. "High dishwasher temperatures can harm produce. The heat and strong water pressure can compromise texture, quality, and freshness," says Baker. Meanwhile, produce with any cuts or bruises before going into the dishwasher can more easily absorb detergents, rinse aids, and microorganisms.

The Best Way to Wash Produce

The best way to wash produce is to run it under cool water and use your hands or a clean produce brush to remove dirt and debris. "Cool, running water is effective because it helps physically remove dirt and pathogens from the surface," says Baker. "Cool temperatures also help prevent pathogens from being drawn into the pores of the produce during washing."

Don't use soap when cleaning produce, as it is not food-grade and can lead to chemical contamination. It's also best to avoid using a commercial produce wash, as its safety and efficacy have not been proven.

Brigman says to make sure you clean all produce, even items you plan to peel, to prevent germs from the outside transferring to the inside during cutting. And finally, don't soak your produce. "Soaking can also spread contaminants from one item to another through the shared wash water," Baker adds.