Is PLA Dishwasher Safe

Is PLA Dishwasher Safe? Here’s What You Need to Know

PLA can be found at the top when it comes to discussing eco-friendly materials. This biodegradable plastic, made from renewable resources such as corn starch or sugarcane, has covered everything from 3D printing to disposable cutlery.

But one of the common questions that arises pretty much with ecologically conscious users, either trying to prolong the life of their PLA-based stuff or trying to keep everything squeaky clean, sounds like: “Is PLA dishwasher safe?”

Well, the short answer is-sort of. Keep reading to understand in detail why PLA and dishwasher cannot go together and also for general tips to maintain your PLA product.

What is PLA, and What’s so Special About it?

PLA is generally considered an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional plastics. Its value does not only lie in its compostability-only trait under specific industrial conditions but also in its versatility. PLA has a wide range of applications in the following:

  • 3D printing filaments
  • Disposable forks, spoons, and other eating utensils
  • Food containers
  • Cups and straws

On the other hand, while great for reducing environmental impact, PLA has certain limitations with regards to durability, especially when it comes to heat and moisture-like conditions found in a dishwasher.

Why PLA Isn’t Dishwasher Safe

The dishwasher might seem like an easy way to wash your PLA items, but doing so can do more harm than good. Here’s why:

1. Low Heat Resistance

PLA can start to soften anywhere between 104°F and 140°F (40°C to 60°C), depending on its specific formulation. Dishwashers expose items to temperatures above these limits during both the wash and dry cycles. This can cause PLA items to warp, lose their shape, or become brittle.

2. Moisture Weakens the Material

PLA is quite durable within its normal usage conditions. However, exposing it to hot water and steam for a long time will definitely degrading its strength. This makes the PLA items quite weaker and ready to break any time.

3. Compostability Comes with Tradeoffs

Keep in mind that PLA is supposed to degrade under specific conditions, such as at industrial composting facilities. Your dishwasher isn’t quite the same as a compost pile, but the combined effect of heat, water, and harsh detergent can accelerate this degradation process.

How to Clean PLA Items Safely

Despite the weaknesses that PLA has in the dishwasher, there are ways to safely clean your items without its damage.

1. Hand Washing is Key

The best way to clean PLA items is by hand washing with lukewarm water and mild soap. Use a soft sponge or cloth to avoid any scratches.

2. Avoid Hot Water

Stick to cool or lukewarm water. Hot water might soften the PLA and result in warping, even under conditions of hand washing.

3. Dry Immediately

Dry your PLA items with a towel after washing, and do not let them get wet for an extended period. Prolonged presence of water weakens the material over time.

4. Keep Them Away From Harsh Detergents

Strong cleaning agents can scratch the surface of the PLA items. Use gentle dish soap to avoid wear and tear.

Can You Make PLA More Durable?

Diversified types of PLA, called “tough PLA” for marketing purposes or combined with other materials, offer better heat resistance than the common type. Nevertheless, even such enhanced formulations have not made the majority of PLA-based products dishwasher-safe. When long-term stability and dishwasher uses are important to you, another material, PETG, one of the impact-resistant 3D printing filaments, and stainless steel possibly better suit your needs.

Wrap It Up

PLA is an eco-friendly material in many ways but is not a type of material that was ever designed to go through a dishwasher. Due to its susceptibility to heat and moisture, hand cleaning is your best option to have your PLA items last for a long time.

So if you’re thinking of living greener, still using everyday objects like cups, utensils, or even 3D printing stuff, PLA is a great choice-as long as you take good care of it.

Got more questions about PLA or any other eco-friendly material? Go ahead and leave them in the comments below, or share with us your best tips on keeping reusable items eco-friendly!

Click to rate this post!
[Total: 0 Average: 0]
Spread the love