Blenders are invaluable kitchen appliances that allow us to quickly and easily blend, puree, and mix ingredients. However, one downside is that they can be difficult to clean, especially all of the various parts and components. When it comes to cleaning your blender, one of the key questions is: what parts are dishwasher safe?
Blades and Blade Assemblies
The blades and blade assemblies are arguably the most important part of a blender. They are what chop, mix, and blend your ingredients. However, blender blades are often not dishwasher safe. The extreme heat and water pressure in a dishwasher can potentially warp or dull the blades over time. It’s best to hand wash blender blades with warm soapy water and take care while handling the sharp edges.
Some blender manufacturers specify that you should never put the blades in the dishwasher. For example, Vitamix and Blendtec blades are not dishwasher safe. With other brands, you may be able to get away with occasional dishwasher use, but hand washing is still recommended for longest blade life.
The blade base or blade assembly that houses the blades should also be hand washed. Avoid submerging the metal blade base in water or putting it in the dishwasher, as moisture can get inside the seal and motor housing potentially leading to rusting or electrical issues.
Blender Jars/Containers
For most standard blenders, the main glass or plastic jar/container is dishwasher safe. However, there are some exceptions:
- Glass blender jars – Most are dishwasher safe, but hand washing is recommended to prevent clouding, scratches, and cracking over time.
- Plastic blender jars – Lower quality plastics may warp or deteriorate from heat and harsh dishwasher detergents.
- Silicone blender jars – Silicone is vulnerable to stains so hand washing is best.
- Personal/single serve blenders – Often have plastic containers not suitable for dishwashers.
When putting your blender jar in the dishwasher:
- Use a low heat/delicate cycle.
- Avoid placing it near the heating element where extreme heat can damage plastic and glass.
- Secure lids, caps, and rings so they don’t get lost or warped.
- Remove any remaining contents first – food particles can get stuck and baked on.
Lids, Caps, and Blender Rings
The plastic lids, caps, and rings that fit onto your blender jar are often marked as top-rack dishwasher safe. However, hand washing is often still recommended. The high heat and harsh detergents can cause warping, discoloration, and deterioration over time. Delicate cycles are ideal. You also want to watch that small removable parts don’t get lost in the dishwasher.
Rubber Gaskets and Seals
Many blender jar lids and bases have rubber gaskets and seals to create a tight connection and prevent leakage. The extreme temperatures and detergents in a dishwasher can cause rubber gaskets to become brittle, warped, or deteriorated over time. Check your manual, but hand washing is typically recommended.
Blender Bases/Housing
Never submerge or put the motor base of a blender in water or the dishwasher. Even if marked dishwasher safe, the blender base houses electrical components that can short circuit if exposed to moisture. Instead, wipe down the outside gently with a soft damp cloth and mild detergent.
Other Removable Parts
Some blenders have other removable parts such as tampers, measuring cups, blades for dry grinding, etc. The general rule of thumb is to avoid soaking or washing anything with electrical connections or plastic/rubber seals. Refer to your manual for guidance. Hand washing removable parts is often the safest bet.
Third Party Replacement Parts
If you purchase replacement parts from third party manufacturers instead of the original brand, their dishwasher safety rating may differ. Only use replacement parts guaranteed as dishwasher safe.
Tips for Hand Washing
When hand washing blender parts, here are some tips:
- Rinse right after use – this prevents foods from drying and sticking.
- Use warm water and mild dish soap.
- Soft brush or sponge can help remove stuck on residues.
- Avoid abrasive scouring pads that can scratch glass and damage finishes.
- Take care with sharp blades and serrated edges.
- Rinse and dry thoroughly.
Part Dishwasher Safe Status Summary
| Blender Part | Dishwasher Safe? |
|---|---|
| Blades and blade assembly | No, hand wash recommended |
| Blender jars/containers | Most are dishwasher safe, but hand washing often recommended |
| Lids, caps, rings | Marked dishwasher safe but hand wash recommended |
| Rubber gaskets and seals | No, hand wash recommended |
| Blender base/housing | No, never submerge or place in dishwasher |
Conclusion
While many blender parts are technically “dishwasher safe”, hand washing is highly recommended whenever possible to maximize the life of your machine. The blades, gaskets, lids and other parts can gradually deteriorate from the heat, water pressure, and harsh detergents. Delicate cycles and proper loading techniques can reduce dishwasher risks. When hand washing, take care with sharp blades and use mild soap and soft brushes. Refer to your manual for specific guidance on cleaning all the various components of your blender safely.
