Why Tupperware Doesn’t Dry in the Dishwasher?
If you’ve just started using Tupperware, you may be surprised by some of its properties. And when you research what more to expect, you may find some conflicting or confusing information. You’ll finally understand why doesn’t Tupperware dry in the dishwasher.
You may even hear some people say that Tupperware doesn’t dry in the dishwasher. But is this true? Well, that’s what we’re going to talk about in today’s post.
Is it true that Tupperware doesn’t dry in the dishwasher?
Yes, Tupperware doesn’t dry in the dishwasher. In fact, all types of plastic containers struggle with drying in the dishwasher. This is because plastic doesn’t retain heat well, especially when compared to glass, ceramic, and metal.
As such, it’s hard for plastic containers to remain hot for long enough for all the water on them to evaporate. Another thing to keep in mind is that water tends to spread out more on glass, ceramic, and metal surfaces, creating a thin layer with a large surface area. This makes evaporation easy.
On the other hand, water tends to collect in beads on plastic containers, creating a small and thick surface area for evaporation. Things get worse when you’re dealing with scratched plastic containers.
How do I dry Tupperware in the dishwasher?
To ensure that your Tupperware dries properly when using a dishwasher, you can use a tea towel. All you have to do is wait until the cleaning cycle is complete, open the dishwasher, and then hang the towel over the dishwasher door before closing it again.
When you leave it like this for a few minutes, the tea towel will absorb any remaining moisture and leave your Tupperware and other plastic containers completely dry. To encourage proper drying, you can also do other things like:
- Placing your Tupperware on the top shelf
While it won’t eliminate all the water from your Tupperware, doing this will give your containers the best chance of staying upside down and effectively drip drying.
Remember, any dishes placed on the lower shelves usually experience more water pressure and have a higher chance of flipping over.
They also experience less heat and have a higher chance of getting damaged.
- Using the full cycle
If your Tupperware doesn’t dry in the dishwasher properly, try using the full cycle. Since the full cycle usually has a drying function with more heat, it can help your Tupperware containers dry better.
- Using high-quality dishwasher rinsing agents and tablets
High-quality cleaning agents will help keep water droplets from sticking to your Tupperware container. This is because they contain surfactants. These are compounds that reduce the surface tension of the water.
- Opening the dishwasher when you’re done
If you notice that your Tupperware doesn’t dry in the dishwasher, try to open the dishwasher when you’re done. This will let the steam escape from the dishwasher instead of forming water droplets on the Tupperware and other utensils in there.
That’s why some dishwashers even come with a feature that allows them to pop open once the cycle is complete. However, these are usually more expensive.
Is there a dishwasher that actually dries Tupperware?
Even though some brands have introduced some features to their dishwashers to help with drying Tupperware, it’s possible, that your Tupperware doesn’t dry in the dishwasher completely. As such, these containers usually still need a wipe with a cloth after cleaning.
It’s however important to note that some brands have featured a door that will automatically pop open after the cycle is complete.
Beyond that, others have included a fan that comes on during the drying cycle. This fan circulates warm air during drying, allowing the Tupperware to dry more evenly.
What other drying options do you have?
Because Tupperware doesn’t dry in the dishwasher, it can be better to look for other options. One option you have is to leave your Tupperware out to dry on a rack. Another one is to use a kitchen towel to wipe the containers.
Alternatively, you can just leave the Tupperware in the dishwasher until it dries. Just remember to leave its door open. Keep in mind though; this can take up to 3 hours.
Don’t worry about it too much
When it comes down to it, your Tupperware doesn’t dry in the dishwasher because of your dishwasher’s inability to completely dry your plastic in general. And it isn’t a big deal! Most times, spending more on a fancy dishwasher just isn’t worth it.