22 Surprising Things You Can Clean in Your Dishwasher
(A fresh, eco-friendly way to simplify your cleaning routine in Roseville, Rocklin & Lincoln)
Let’s be honest—life gets busy. Between work, family, and everything in between, keeping a clean home can feel like a full-time job. And if you’re anything like the families we serve here in Roseville, Rocklin, and Lincoln, you want a home that’s not just clean—but truly healthy.
That’s where a little creativity (and your dishwasher!) can go a long way.
Most people think dishwashers are just for plates and cups. But when used thoughtfully, they can become one of your most powerful, eco-friendly cleaning tools—saving time, reducing harsh chemical use, and helping you maintain a naturally fresh home.
At Om Sweet Om Cleaning, we’re all about working smarter, not harder… and doing it in a way that supports your home’s wellness.
So let’s dive in.
First—A Quick Mindful Reminder
Not everything belongs in the dishwasher. Always avoid:
Wood (can crack or warp)
Cast iron (strips seasoning)
Delicate antiques
Items with glued parts
When in doubt, use the top rack and skip heated dry.
And for the bounce—remember: gentle cleaning wins every time.
1. Light Fixture Covers
Those glass dome covers collect dust, bugs, and grease over time. Instead of scrubbing by hand, place them securely on the top rack and let your dishwasher do the work.
2. Cabinet Hardware
Knobs and pulls get surprisingly grimy. Remove them, place them in a mesh bag or utensil holder, and run a gentle cycle.
3. Vent Covers
Air vents and return covers hold onto dust and allergens. A quick dishwasher cycle helps break down buildup—especially helpful during allergy season.
4. Plastic Toys (Especially Kids’ Bath Toys)
Kids’ toys can harbor bacteria, soap residue, and—this one surprises a lot of parents—hidden mold inside bath toys.
Those cute squeeze toys that spray water? They often trap moisture inside, creating the perfect environment for buildup you can’t see.
Here’s how to safely clean them in the dishwasher:
Place toys on the top rack only
Use a gentle cycle with a non-toxic detergent
Skip heated dry to protect the plastic
For bath toys specifically:
Squeeze out as much water as possible before loading
If they have a hole, position them so water can drain during the cycle
After washing, allow them to fully air dry
Pro tip: If bath toys are heavily affected inside, it may be time to replace them or rotate regularly to keep things fresh.
This is such an easy way to support a healthier bath time—especially for little ones with sensitivities or allergies.
5. Pet Bowls & Toys
Your furry family deserves clean too. Dishwasher-safe bowls and rubber toys can be sanitized without harsh cleaners.
6. Refrigerator Shelves & Drawers
(Your deep clean shortcut)
This is one of our favorite time-saving tricks—especially when you’re doing a full kitchen reset.
Instead of trying to scrub shelves in the sink (awkward, bulky, and messy), place removable glass or plastic refrigerator shelves and drawers directly into the dishwasher.
Load carefully to avoid crowding
Use a gentle or normal cycle
Skip heated dry for glass to prevent cracking
✨ Why this works: It breaks down sticky spills, food residue, and hidden grime fast—cutting your deep clean time in half.
If you’re tackling a full kitchen refresh in Roseville, Rocklin, or Lincoln, this one shift alone can make the process feel so much lighter.
7. Cleaning Brushes (Yes—Your Tools Need Cleaning Too)
This one might seem obvious—especially since we just talked about cleaning your cleaning tools—but it’s always worth spelling out.
The very tools you rely on—dish brushes, grout brushes, vegetable brushes, and small scrub brushes—can hold onto bacteria, grease, and residue over time. Instead of tossing them and replacing them constantly, give them a fresh reset in the dishwasher.
Place brushes bristle-side down on the top rack
Use a normal or sanitizing cycle
Skip heated dry if handles are plastic or glued
✨ Why it matters: You’re not just cleaning your home—you’re cleaning the tools that clean your home. That means less spreading of bacteria and a more effective, hygienic clean overall.
And for the bounce—fresh tools = a fresher home.
8. Sponges & Dish Brushes
Yes, we’re saying it again—because this is one of the most overlooked (and most needed) habits in the kitchen.
Instead of tossing sponges and dish brushes at the first sign of wear, run them through a sanitizing dishwasher cycle to extend their life and reduce bacteria buildup. It’s a simple switch that keeps your kitchen cleaner without creating extra waste.
9. Makeup Brushes & Holders
Holders, organizers, and some durable brushes can be gently cleaned this way. Just avoid anything with delicate glue or natural fibers.
10. Hairbrushes, Combs & Hair Accessories
Remove excess hair first (this step matters more than you think), then place brushes and combs on the top rack of your dishwasher. This helps break down built-up oils, dust, and hair product residue—no harsh soaking required.
👉 Bonus tip (especially for busy moms):
Girls’ plastic hair clips, barrettes, and small accessories can absolutely go in too—but place them inside a small dishwasher-safe bag or plastic container. This keeps them from slipping through and ending up at the bottom of the dishwasher (or worse… melting onto the heating element 😬).
It’s a simple way to refresh all those little everyday items that quietly collect buildup.
11. Flip Flops & Shower Shoes
Perfect for post-gym or summer cleanup. Use a gentle cycle and air dry.
12. Gardening Tools
Small hand tools like trowels can go in to remove dirt and bacteria—especially after planting season.
13. Switch Plates & Outlet Covers
These are high-touch areas that often get overlooked. A dishwasher cycle can safely deep clean them (just make sure they’re fully dry before reinstalling).
14. Toothbrush Holders
One of the most bacteria-prone spots in your bathroom—this is an easy win for a deeper clean.
15. Soap Dishes
Soap scum buildup? Let the dishwasher handle it.
16. Reusable Food Storage Containers
Over time, even “clean” containers can hold onto odors. A hot cycle helps reset them.
17. Range Hood Filters
These collect grease fast. A dishwasher cycle (with a degreasing agent) can restore airflow and cleanliness.
18. Microwave Turntables
That glass plate can absolutely go in the dishwasher—and it’s much easier than hand scrubbing.
19. Drawer Organizers
Utensil trays and junk drawer organizers can collect crumbs and dust. Give them a refresh.
20. Trash Can Lids (Small Ones)
If they fit, these are great candidates for a deep clean cycle.
21. Silicone Baking Mats & Oven Mitts
Heat-resistant items like these often trap grease and odors—your dishwasher can bring them back to life.
22. Stove Drip Bowls (Drip Pans)
These are one of the most satisfying items to clean in the dishwasher.
If you have an electric stovetop, those metal drip bowls under the burners collect grease, spills, and burnt-on food fast. Instead of scrubbing endlessly:
Remove and shake off loose debris
Place them on the bottom rack
Run a normal or heavy cycle
✨ Pro tip: Sprinkle a little baking soda directly on the drip bowls before running the cycle for extra cleaning power.
Why This Matters for a Healthy Home
When you start thinking outside the box like this, cleaning becomes less overwhelming—and more aligned with a holistic lifestyle.
Using your dishwasher this way:
Reduces the need for harsh chemical cleaners
Saves water compared to hand washing
Minimizes scrubbing and physical strain
Helps maintain a lower-toxin home environment
And if you’re sensitive to fragrances, allergens, or synthetic residues… this approach makes a big difference.
The Eco-Friendly Way to Do It
To keep this method truly non-toxic:
Use a clean, simple dishwasher detergent (free of dyes and synthetic fragrance) - Molly Suds or Branch Basics are a good option
Skip antibacterial or bleach-based additives
Air dry when possible
Run full loads to conserve energy and water
Less is more. Always.
When to DIY… and When to Call in Support
These dishwasher hacks are amazing for maintenance—but let’s be real:
There are layers of buildup in a home that a dishwasher just can’t reach.
That’s where deeper, intentional cleaning comes in.
If you’re in Roseville, Rocklin, or Lincoln and you’ve been searching for:
“eco-friendly cleaning service near me”
“non-toxic house cleaning”
“deep cleaning service for allergies”
“natural home cleaning company”
You’re not alone.
More families are realizing that how your home is cleaned matters just as much as that it’s cleaned.
What Makes Eco-Friendly Cleaning Different?
At Om Sweet Om Cleaning, we look beyond surface shine.
We focus on:
Removing buildup without leaving behind chemical residue
Using safer, plant-based or low-toxicity products
Paying attention to high-touch and often-missed areas
Supporting indoor air quality
Creating a space that actually feels calm, fresh, and balanced
Because a clean home should support your well-being—not compromise it.
A Gentle Shift Toward Simplicity
You don’t have to overhaul everything overnight.
Start small:
Try cleaning a few of these items in your dishwasher this week
Swap one harsh product for a gentler alternative
Open your windows and let fresh air in
Notice how your space feels after a deeper clean
These little shifts add up.
Final Thoughts
Your home is your sanctuary.
And keeping it clean doesn’t have to mean working harder—or exposing your family to unnecessary toxins.
Sometimes, it’s as simple as rethinking the tools you already have… like your dishwasher.
And for the bounce— cleaning isn’t just about removing dirt.
It’s about creating a space where you can breathe easier, think clearer, and feel more at peace.
Ready for a Deeper Clean?
If your home is ready for that next level of clean—the kind that goes beyond the surface—we’re here for you.
Om Sweet Om Cleaning proudly serves Roseville, Rocklin, and Lincoln with eco-friendly, detail-focused cleaning services designed for real life.
✨ Safe for kids, pets, and sensitive homes
✨ Thoughtful, thorough, and toxin-conscious
✨ Customized to your space and needs
Reach out today to schedule your eco-friendly cleaning and experience the difference a truly healthy home can make.