13 things you never knew you could put in the dishwasher

You’d be surprised just how many household items can be given a thorough cleaning in your humble dishwasher.

Germs can linger on your kids’ toys for months. Disinfect them by putting them in a mesh lingerie bag on the top shelf of your dishwasher. Then just let the normal cycle run.

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Hook dirty flip flops into the top rack so they stay in place during high water pressure cycles.

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Your hairbrush can hold almost 3,500 colonies of bacteria, according to University of Arizona research. Remove any stray hairs and drop your brush in the silverware tray for a thorough cleanse. Remember: Only plastic brushes or combs. Wooden or boar-bristle brushes will get ruined.

Don’t put these 17 items in the dishwasher – but do throw them out as soon as you possibly can. 

Making mashed potatoes for your next big family gathering? Cut your preparation time and wash your spuds on a rinse-only cycle – no detergent! – on the top shelf.

Even gum boots deserve a good rinse once in a while. Remove the liners and lay them down horizontally.

Between leaking meat juices and spilled food, your fridge can get really gross really fast. Instead of scrubbing every last inch clean, throw those shelves in with your other dishes.

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When it comes to cleaning, common desk items like penholders and trays for scrap paper often get overlooked. If they’re metal or plastic, toss them in your next dishwasher load.

These are probably the last things you think of cleaning in your kitchen, but they can get dirty quickly. If they’re removable, throw them in the silverware tray.

Your bathroom is a haven for bacteria, from soap dishes to bathtub drain plugs to toothbrush holders. Luckily, all of them can be cleaned on the top rack with your other dishes.