Not all cutting boards are dishwasher-safe. Plastic, glass, and titanium cutting boards can generally go in the dishwasher, while wooden, bamboo, and marble cutting boards should never be machine-washed. Dishwasher heat and moisture can warp, crack, and permanently damage natural-material boards.
In this guide, we break down exactly which cutting boards are dishwasher-safe, which ones aren't, and how to properly care for each type—so your board lasts as long as possible.
Can Wooden Cutting Boards Go in the Dishwasher?
No. Wooden cutting boards should never go in the dishwasher. The combination of high heat, prolonged moisture exposure, and harsh detergents strips the wood of its natural oils, causing it to warp, crack, and split. Over time, this damage creates deep grooves that harbor bacteria—making the board both unsafe and unusable.
Specifically, putting a wooden cutting board in the dishwasher will:
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Strip away the board's natural oils
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Cause warping or cracking along the grain
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Weaken glue joints on multi-piece boards
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Create a rough surface that traps bacteria
The safest and most effective method is hand-washing with warm soapy water, followed by thorough drying. To keep your wooden board in top condition, regular oiling is essential. The True Board's Premium Walnut Cutting Board Oil is specifically formulated to replenish the natural oils that washing gradually removes—helping to prevent cracking and extend the life of your board.
For a complete walkthrough on how to clean and maintain a wooden cutting board the right way, watch our step-by-step guide:
Can Plastic Cutting Boards Go in the Dishwasher?
Yes. Plastic cutting boards are generally dishwasher-safe. Most high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic boards are designed to withstand dishwasher temperatures, making machine-washing a convenient and hygienic option.
To get the best results when washing plastic cutting boards in the dishwasher:
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Place the board on the upper rack to avoid direct contact with the heating element
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Avoid putting thin or low-quality boards in the dishwasher, as they are prone to warping under heat
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For extra sanitization, apply a baking soda and lemon paste to the surface before loading
Can Glass Cutting Boards Go in the Dishwasher?
Yes. Glass cutting boards are dishwasher-safe. Glass is non-porous and highly resistant to heat and moisture, making it one of the easiest board materials to clean and sanitize.
Follow these tips for safe dishwasher cleaning:
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Place the board on the top rack
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Avoid loading it alongside heavy metal items that could chip or crack the glass
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Ensure the board is secured properly so it does not shift or fall during the wash cycle
Can Bamboo Cutting Boards Go in the Dishwasher?
No. Bamboo cutting boards should not go in the dishwasher. Although bamboo is technically a grass rather than a hardwood, it behaves similarly to wood when exposed to water and heat. Dishwasher cycles cause the natural fibers to swell, leading to cracking, splitting, and loss of the board's protective oils.
Like wooden boards, bamboo cutting boards should be hand-washed with mild soap and warm water, then dried immediately and stored flat. Regular oiling with a food-safe oil will help maintain the board's surface and prevent moisture absorption.
What Cutting Boards Can Go in the Dishwasher?
|
Cutting Board Type |
Dishwasher-Safe? |
|
Wood |
❌ No |
|
Bamboo |
❌ No |
|
Marble |
❌ No |
|
Plastic (HDPE) |
✅ Yes |
|
Glass |
✅ Yes |
|
Titanium |
✅ Yes |
|
Rubber |
✅ Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I accidentally put a wooden cutting board in the dishwasher?
Act quickly. Remove the board from the dishwasher immediately and allow it to air-dry naturally—do not use heat to speed up the process, as this can worsen warping. Once fully dry, lightly sand the surface with fine-grit sandpaper to smooth any raised grain. Then apply a generous coat of food-safe cutting board oil, such as The True Board's Premium Walnut Cutting Board Oil, to restore moisture and help prevent further cracking.
How often should I oil a wooden cutting board?
Wooden cutting boards should be oiled approximately once a month under regular use, or any time the surface begins to look dry or dull. Boards that are washed more frequently may need oiling more often. Consistent oiling is the single most effective way to extend the lifespan of a wood board.
Can marble cutting boards go in the dishwasher?
No. Marble cutting boards should never go in the dishwasher. The heat and detergents used in dishwasher cycles can etch, stain, and dull the stone surface. Marble boards should be wiped clean with a damp cloth and mild soap, then dried immediately.
Is hand-washing more hygienic than dishwashing for cutting boards?
For most board types, the dishwasher is actually more hygienic because it reaches higher temperatures than hand-washing. However, for wooden and bamboo boards—which cannot go in the dishwasher—thorough hand-washing with hot soapy water, followed by complete drying, is sufficient. Sanitizing with a diluted white vinegar solution offers an additional layer of protection for boards used with raw meat or fish.
What is the most durable dishwasher-safe cutting board?
Titanium cutting boards are among the most durable dishwasher-safe options available, as they are highly resistant to heat, warping, and bacterial growth. High-density plastic boards are also a practical and widely available choice that holds up well to repeated dishwasher cycles.
Conclusion
The golden rule: if your cutting board is made of wood, bamboo, or marble, keep it out of the dishwasher. These materials are vulnerable to the heat and moisture that dishwashers produce, and a single wash cycle can cause lasting damage. Plastic, glass, titanium, and rubber boards, on the other hand, are built to handle it.
For wood board owners, the good news is that proper hand-washing paired with regular oiling is straightforward—and keeps your board looking and performing like new. Explore The True Board's care products to keep your board in peak condition for years to come.