Are Tumblers Dishwasher Safe? (Insulation Risks, Rust & Labels) - ImprintNow.Com
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Are Tumblers Dishwasher Safe? (Insulation Damages, Compatibility And Care)

Tumblers are versatile drinkware, often made from plastic, stainless steel, or insulated metals. They are designed to keep beverages at the desired temperature, so they are popular for both hot and cold drinks. However, one question frequently emerges: are tumblers dishwasher safe?


In this guide, we delve into the nuances of tumbler dishwasher compatibility. The dishwasher safety of a tumbler depends on its material, construction, and manufacturer guidelines, so read on to learn all you need to know about this topic.

Are Tumblers Dishwasher Safe? (Insulation Damages, Compatibility And Care)

Key Takeaways

  • The dishwasher safety of tumblers depends on the material and manufacturer guidelines, so only put them in if they are labeled as dishwasher safe.
  • It is often not recommended to put insulated cups in the dishwasher as the heat exposure could damage the vacuum seal.
  • Putting a hand-wash only mug in the dishwasher could lead to warping, fading, or loss of insulation.
  • We supply high-quality custom tumblers in plastic and stainless steel with a wide range of options for you to create the perfect personalized tumbler.

Are Tumblers Dishwasher Safe?

Tumblers are available in various materials including plastic, stainless steel, and insulated metals. Their dishwasher safety primarily depends on these materials and construction. Are tumblers dishwasher safe? The answer is that only some are.

Some tumblers are labeled as dishwasher safe, but others may not be due to the risk of damage to things like:

  • The vacuum seal
  • The exterior finish

Thus, it is often not recommended to put insulated cups in the dishwasher due to the risk of heat to the vacuum seal. It is crucial to check if your tumbler is labeled as dishwasher safe - if not, it is best to stick to hand washing.

If you make custom personalized tumblers with our service or any other method, understand these distinctions to ensure its longevity and the safety of your beverages.

the empty rack of a dishwasher for are tumblers dishwasher safe

Can You Put Tumblers In The Dishwasher Without Damaging Them?

Putting your tumblers in the dishwasher without proper knowledge can result in damage. You can only put tumblers in the dishwasher if they are labeled as dishwasher safe. Otherwise, you face the reality of risks like:

  • Warping
  • Fading
  • Deterioration of vacuum seals

The high heat and detergents can compromise the integrity of your tumbler, particularly in insulated cups. This could harm the insulating properties and even lead to potential leaks.

For this reason, it is often not recommended to put insulated cups in the dishwasher. Additionally, you need to consider the risks to lids and sealing rings, which could compromise functionality.

Check manufacturer guidelines to ensure the longevity of your tumblers. If you seek durable options, work with us to create custom warmth keeper steel tumblers and many other solutions. We can engrave or imprint high-quality personalized designs and offer benefits like a range of color options and generous wholesale discounts.

Seeking a plastic tumbler for cold drinks on-the-go?

Our custom acrylic tumblers with lids can be personalized for branding or any other design, and they are dishwasher safe and perfect for carrying your chilled drinks.

Are There Tumblers That Are Specifically Dishwasher Safe?

Some tumblers are specifically designed to withstand the rigors of the dishwasher. Manufacturers often label these as dishwasher safe, indicating that they have been tested for durability under high temperatures and detergent exposure.

Some stainless steel tumblers are dishwasher safe - those with robust construction and protective coatings are best. However, it’s important to verify this on the product label or manufacturer’s website. If you laser-engrave tumblers, it is still only safe to put them in the dishwasher if this is specified by the manufacturer.

Features that make a tumbler dishwasher-safe include:

  • Durable materials
  • Secure seals
  • Protective finishes


Always consult the manufacturer’s care instructions first. These will give you the strongest indication of whether putting your tumbler in the dishwasher will impact its longevity, appearance, and functionality.

What Tumblers Are Labeled As Dishwashers Safe By Reduce Everyday?

“Reduce Everyday” is known for producing dishwasher-safe tumblers. Their products include:

  • Mugs
  • Tumblers
  • Cups

Most are designed for easy cleaning. Thus, stainless steel tumblers from Reduce Everyday are generally labeled as dishwasher safe, ensuring convenience without compromising quality.

However, while all their products can go in the dishwasher, handwashing is recommended if you want to minimize the risk of wear to the finish. This is the same as the advice for dishwasher-safe ceramic mugs. Always check the product label or Reduce Everyday’s website for specific care instructions.

This brand has a commitment to quality that ensures their tumblers remain durable and functional. Even regular dishwasher use shouldn’t be a problem for their longevity and functionality.

shallow focus of a white tumbler beside a macbook for are tumblers dishwasher safe

Choose our stainless steel insulated tumblers for ultimate quality

Though caution is advised with dishwashers, our thermo-seal insulated tumblers are outstanding products for hot and cold drinks with high-quality personalized designs.

Learn more

Why Can't You Put Insulated Cups In The Dishwasher?

Studies have shown that households with dishwashers may use 50% less water and 28% less energy per cleaned item, so using them is desirable. However, many will say you can’t put insulated cups in the dishwasher. This is because it could damage the vacuum seal that provides insulation.

The high heat and harsh detergents in dishwashers can compromise the seal, reducing the thermal retention. It is generally not recommended to put insulated cups in the dishwasher unless the label says otherwise. Over time, repeated dishwasher cycles might break down the insulating layer, resulting in a tumbler that no longer keeps your drinks hot or cold effectively.

To preserve the functionality of your insulated tumblers, we recommend hand washing instead. Use mild detergent and warm water, avoiding exposing the vacuum seal to extreme temperatures and agitation.

Can You Put Stainless Steel Cups In The Dishwasher Without Rusting?

While many stainless steel cups are labeled as dishwasher safe, not all are immune to potential issues. The composition of stainless steel, by definition, makes it resistant to rust, but prolonged exposure could lead to discoloration or pitting.

The threats from dishwashers include:

  • High heat exposure
  • Harsh detergents

Some stainless steel cups are genuinely dishwasher safe, especially those with protective coatings. To minimize risks, we recommend putting them on the top rack and avoiding harsh detergents. The manufacturer guidelines should give you the instructions you need.

Regularly inspect your cups for signs of wear to help maintain their appearance and functionality. Our custom metallic tumblers are safe for use in the dishwasher, but take precautions to preserve the personalized designs.

Looking for a solution to take cold drinks on outdoor excursions?

Whether for long hikes or trips to the gym, our custom plastic travel mugs are the perfect, personalized solution and are dishwasher safe and convenient for your cool drinks.

Can Metal Cups Go In The Dishwasher?

The question of whether metal cups can go in the dishwasher depends on the type of metal and any coatings that are present. Custom stainless steel tumblers are among the best print-on-demand products to sell for brands, but not all are dishwasher safe.

The ones that are genuinely best for dishwashers are made from stainless steel with protective finishes. However, painted or powder-coated metal cups may experience fading or chipping when exposed to the heat and detergents that are commonly used in dishwashers.

To preserve the integrity and appearance of your metal cups, we recommend handwashing. This is especially important if they are not explicitly labeled dishwasher safe. Always consult the manufacturer’s care instructions to ensure the longevity of your drinkware.

Can Plastic Tumblers Go In The Dishwasher Safely?

Many plastic tumblers are labeled as dishwasher safe, particularly if they are made from robust materials like Tritan or polypropylene. However, it is usually recommended to place them on the top rack to avoid warping from the dishwasher’s heating element.

Tumblers are usually dishwasher safe if they are made of plastic, but you should always look for the dishwasher safe label. It is best to avoid using the high-heat drying cycles, as these might cause deformation. Also, make sure the plastic is BPA-free. Research has found that there are links between BPA exposure and adverse perinatal, childhood, and adult health outcomes. Avoid it to prevent potential health risks.


Inspect your plastic tumblers regularly for signs of wear or damage. They are built to last, but you should replace them as needed to maintain safety and functionality.

Make the most of your hot or cold beverages with a travel tumbler

These stainless steel travel tumblers enable you to carry your drinks with you in stylish, personalized containers that are convenient and easy to drink from when thirst strikes.

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What Happens If You Put A Sublimation Tumbler In The Dishwasher?

Sublimation tumblers are made with printed designs that are applied using heat and pressure, resulting in vibrant, long-lasting images. The designs are made to last, but it is generally not recommended to put tumblers in the dishwasher if they are sublimated.

The high heat and strong detergents can cause the sublimated design to fade or peel over time. Tumblers are only dishwasher safe when sublimated if it is specified by the manufacturer. If you want to preserve the design's integrity, handwashing with mild detergent is advised. Alternatively, you could go for laser-engraved options - there are many etched tumbler design ideas that look elegant and withstand vigorous washing.


Avoid using abrasive scrubbers when hand-washing your tumblers as they might scratch the surface. By taking these precautions, you can ensure longevity and vibrancy in your sublimation tumblers.

Tips For Safe Dishwasher Use With Tumblers And Cups

To ensure the longevity of your tumblers and cups, take precautions when you put them in the dishwasher with your elegant wine glasses and other drinkware. Here are some tips:

  • Always check if they are labeled dishwasher safe.
  • Place items on the top rack to minimize heat exposure.
  • Avoid high-heat drying cycles.
  • Use mild detergents to prevent damage to coatings or seals.
  • For insulated cups, we recommend handwashing to preserve the vacuum seal.
  • Regularly inspect for signs of wear or damage.
  • Avoid placing painted or decorated tumblers in the dishwasher unless they are specified as dishwasher safe.
  • For tumblers with lids or seals, disassemble them before you wash them to ensure thorough cleaning.
  • Dry all components completely before reassembling to prevent mold or mildew.
  • When in doubt, opt to hand-wash your tumblers to maintain their appearance and functionality.

With these tips in mind, you should be able to wash and care for your tumblers safely.

a woman wearing a pink top holding a tumbler for are tumbler dishwasher safe

Will The Dishwasher Warranty Cover Tumbler Damage?

Dishwasher warranties are intended to cover defects in the appliance itself, not damage to items that are washed within it. Can you put tumblers in the dishwasher without voiding the warranty? Provided the tumbler is dishwasher safe, there shouldn’t be any issues, but even a damaged tumbler won’t affect the dishwasher’s warranty.

If a tumbler is damaged in the dishwasher, it is unlikely that any warranty will cover it. If the tumbler itself has a warranty, and is labeled as dishwasher-safe, then any damage in the dishwasher may be covered. But the dishwasher’s warranty is not designed to cover damage caused to items inside it.

Always consult the manufacturer guidelines of both the dishwasher and tumbler. Protect your investment by following the recommended care guidelines. We provide full guidance for washing and maintaining our acrylic sip drinking tumblers and other products so you can use them with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions About Are Tumblers Dishwasher Safe

Are Tumblers Dishwasher Safe Or Not?

The answer to this depends on the material and the manufacturer’s guidelines. Always check for a dishwasher-safe label on your product before putting it in the dishwasher.

Are Stainless Steel Tumblers Dishwashers Safe?

Some stainless steel tumblers are dishwasher safe, especially those with protective coatings. However, others might require hand washing to preserve their finish and insulation.

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