If youve ever livedwithouta dishwasher, then you know how truly life-changing they can be.

According to the team at the dishwasher detergent brandCascade, dishwashers arent just for dishes.

In fact, more kitchen and household items can go into your dishwasher than you probably realize.

Reusable storage bags placed upside down in top rack of dishwasher

The Spruce / Ulyana Verbytska

Here’s what she says wecan add to our next load.

Plenty of these kitchen staplesarentdishwasher safe.

According to Colvin, this area of your dishwasher isnt subjected to as much heat as the bottom shelf.

instant pot lid ring in the dishwasher

​The Spruce / Ana Cadena

That area can cause a whole host of problems for your plastic containers, including warping and melting.

Tip

If your plastic containers arent dishwasher safe, then placement wont make a difference.

Colvin says its key to always check labels and instructions before placing anything youre unsure of into your dishwasher.

Brown and yellow cellulose sponge in top rack of dishwasher tray

The Spruce / Ulyana Verbytska

This is a particular game-changer if youre trying toscrub out stubborn burn marks.

If youre worried that running your dishwasher isnt great for the planet, rest assured.

Want more cleaning and organizing tips?

Sponges

This might just be our new favorite kitchen hack.

According to the team at Cascade, yes, you canwash your spongesin your dishwasher.

Sponges are better off air-dried to avoid needless wear and tear.