Do I need to scrub pots and pans before the dishwasher?Updated 4 hours ago
TL;DR: Usually no. Dishwashing Tabs are designed to lift tough residues like dried egg yolk and baked-on food. In most cases, pots and pans come out clean without heavy scrubbing. For heavily burnt or greasy cookware, a little prep helps.
Last reviewed: April 2026
When should I scrub first?
✓ Quick prep for heavy soiling
If there's thick, baked-on, or burnt food, giving it a light scrub before loading the dishwasher can improve results.
✓ Enzyme boost pre-treatment
For stubborn grease or baked-on grime, spray cookware with Kitchen Grease & Oil Cleaner and leave for at least 15 minutes before starting the dishwasher cycle.
Which scrubbing tool should I use?
For tougher spots that need hands-on attention, work through these in order from gentlest to most abrasive.
Gentle
Medium
Heavy duty
Diamond Sponge. Very abrasive. Use caution on delicate, coated, or non-stick surfaces.
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