WHY is a dishwasher bad for my Calphalon???

[xavier]

I understand that Calphalon anodized aluminum pots should not go in the dishwasher. Since a houseguest unknowingly put one of my in a few years ago, I've seen firsthand how it turns white. What I don't understand is WHY??? the stuff is otherwise pretty indestructible and I use all sorts of harsh abrasives on it, cleaning my roasting pan with comet or barkeeper's friend all the time.

[ted]

I think it's not so much that it's chlorinated as caustic. The high pH and aluminum don't get along well.

[btnfood]

Yes, you are right Ted. It's been too many years since my stewarding days :).

[ted]

No biggie. Chlorine would do in the stainless, too.

[btnfood]

All aluminum pans should not go in the dishwasher as the detergent is heavily chlorinated and acts as a corrosive on the metal. Stainless steel does well in the dishwasher, but most other cookware materials don't.

To restore the finish on your pan, try Calphalon's Dormond cleaner.