Can Lego Go in the Dishwasher? Safe Cleaning Tips Revealed
Lego pieces should not go in the dishwasher as the heat can warp or damage them. It’s best to clean Lego by hand with mild soap and warm water.
Is It Safe to Wash Lego in the Dishwasher?
Composition of LEGO Bricks
LEGO bricks are renown for their durability and the ability to withstand countless hours of play. This resilience is largely due to the material they are made from: acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic.
ABS is a thermoplastic polymer known for its strength and rigidity, making it an ideal material for the production of interlocking toy bricks.
However, while ABS can handle the pressure of being clicked together and pulled apart repeatedly, it has its vulnerabilities when it comes to heat exposure.
Effects of Dishwasher Conditions on LEGO
The environment inside a dishwasher is harsh for delicate items. The high heat, which is effective for cleaning and sterilizing dishes, can be detrimental to LEGO bricks. Temperatures can soar to levels that cause the ABS plastic to warp or become disfigured.
Additionally, the forceful water jets inside a dishwasher, coupled with abrasive detergents, can cause the bricks to collide and result in surface scratches, which diminishes their aesthetic and functional quality.
These conditions are not conducive to preserving your LEGO’s integrity and appearance.
LEGO’s Cleaning Guidelines
LEGO Group, the manufacturer of these beloved bricks, provides specific guidelines for cleaning their product. They advise against using the dishwasher for cleaning LEGO pieces.
Instead, they recommend less aggressive methods to ensure that the bricks are not damaged during the cleaning process. It is pivotal to follow these guidelines to maintain the quality and longevity of your LEGO sets.
Best Practices for Cleaning Lego Bricks
LEGO’s Recommended Manual Cleaning Methods
When it comes to cleaning LEGO bricks, the safest method is to wash them by hand.
LEGO suggests using a mild soap and lukewarm water to gently cleanse the bricks. This method ensures that the ABS plastic does not become compromised by excessive heat or harsh chemicals.
Step-by-Step Guide for Hand-Washing LEGO
Hand-washing LEGO is a straightforward process. Begin by disassembling any complex structures to ensure that each brick gets thoroughly cleaned.
Soak the bricks in a basin of lukewarm water mixed with a small amount of mild soap.
Use a soft-bristled brush or cloth to gently scrub the bricks to remove any grime or residue. Avoid using hot water, as this can lead to warping or other damage.
Tips for Drying and Storing LEGO After Washing
After washing, it’s important to dry your LEGO bricks completely to prevent mold or mildew from forming, especially in the hollow areas of the bricks. Spread the pieces out on a towel and allow them to air dry, or gently pat them down with a cloth.
Avoid using heat sources, such as hair dryers, as these can also warp the plastic. Once dry, store your LEGO pieces in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent any discoloration or heat damage.
Alternative Cleaning Methods and Precautions
Ultrasonic Cleaners and LEGO
Ultrasonic cleaners are devices that use high-frequency sound waves to clean items at a microscopic level. While they can be effective for certain types of items, their suitability for cleaning LEGO bricks is questionable.
The intense vibrations may cause bricks to collide and scratch, or potentially weaken the structure of the plastic over time.
If you choose to use an ultrasonic cleaner, do so with caution and sparingly to minimize potential damage to your LEGO sets.
Using Mesh Bags or Containers in the Dishwasher
If you still wish to use the dishwasher against LEGO’s recommendations, consider placing the bricks in a mesh bag or a secure container to reduce the impact of the water jets and prevent the pieces from scattering inside the machine.
Use a cooler wash cycle and avoid using heated drying. Even with these precautions, there is still a risk of damage, so this method should be used as a last resort only.
Precautions if Using a Dishwasher
When using a dishwasher, it is critical to take certain precautions. Choose a gentle detergent and a low-temperature wash cycle.
Place the LEGO bricks securely in a mesh bag or container and position them on the top rack of the dishwasher, where the heat and water pressure are typically less intense.
Despite these precautions, understand that there is still a risk involved, and the safest way to clean LEGO bricks remains to wash them by hand.
FAQs About Cleaning Lego
Can Lego pieces be washed in the dishwasher?
No, Lego pieces should not be washed in the dishwasher as the heat may warp or damage them.
What is the recommended way to clean Lego bricks?
The recommended method is to clean Lego by hand using mild soap and warm water.
Will hot water from the dishwasher melt Lego pieces?
Hot water from the dishwasher may not necessarily melt Lego pieces, but it can warp or otherwise damage them.
Is it safe to use any chemicals or bleach to clean Lego?
No, it is not recommended to use harsh chemicals or bleach on Lego pieces; mild soap is best.
How can I dry Lego bricks after washing them?
Lego bricks should be air-dried on a towel or drying rack after washing by hand.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning Lego pieces in the dishwasher is not recommended due to the potential for heat damage and warping.
To preserve the quality and integrity of Lego components, manual cleaning with mild soap and warm water is the safest method. This ensures the longevity and continued enjoyment of Lego sets.
