It is fantastic to print unique 3D objects. There are many options to choose from when creating things made from PETG (polyethylene terephthalate glycol). However, after some use of these PETG creations, they will eventually get dirty, so can you pop them into your dishwasher to clean them?
PETG is dishwasher safe as it’s heat-resistant and capable of withstanding the high temperatures in a dishwasher. PETG is also non-toxic and does not produce odors after being washed. Be sure to regulate the dryer setting on the dishwasher to prevent damage to the PETG.
This article will provide a few solid reasons why you can safely wash your PETG items in your dishwasher. I will also explain some of the adverse side effects that may arise. While you should monitor for these closely, they’re usually nothing too serious; now, let’s begin!
What Exactly Is PETG and What Does It Mean?
PETG stands for polyethylene terephthalate glycol. It is used for many products, specifically 3D printing. Products that require heat in order to be produced also use PETG, such as packaging goods and insulators.
For the purpose of this article, we will focus on PETG products and running them through a dishwasher in order to clean them.
Another essential thing to note is that PETG can be vacuum sealed. It uses heat resistance which will be a tremendous help when it comes to being cleaned within a dishwasher.
You can safely place your PETG items in your dishwasher and not have to worry about them being dangerous or contaminating your machine. However, there are a few things about which you should be mindful.
Below are a few positive aspects, along with some things about which to be mindful that will benefit you as you use PETG in your dishwasher at home.
Benefits of Cleaning PETG in the Dishwasher
Besides the fact that your PETG items will be squeaky clean after a cycle in the dishwasher, there are two great reasons for cleaning them thoroughly.
No Toxicity or Foul Odor
Who wants something toxic or something that smells foul in their house? Not you, I’m sure!
PETG, once thoroughly washed and dried, is not toxic. This means that it does not have nasty toxins that could potentially be harmful to you or your family members.
Neither does washing PETG in your dishwasher result in unpleasant odors.
So no need to worry about nasty smells emanating from within once you open the dishwasher door after running a cycle. That is fantastic!
Environmentally Conscious
For those of you who are conscious about your footprint and impact on the environment, one benefit of using PETG is that it can be recycled.
The elements with which the PETG are made can be further broken down and used for other products.
So, if you happen not to like the condition of the PETG items once they have been cleaned in the dishwasher, you can at least rest assured that they are recyclable. Then you can create new PETG and be more mindful of putting them in your dishwasher.
3 Things To Know Before Putting PETG in the Dishwasher
As with many fragile and delicate things, you want to know the potential consequences or side effects of using a dishwasher to clean your PETG products.
Here are three good things to be mindful of as you go through this process:
The Process of Crystallization of the PETG
Sometimes, PETG is unable to crystalize due to the elements within it containing glycol.
This could potentially result in cracking of the items, so, again, be sure to monitor all of the heat levels from your water heater to the dryer setting.
Be Conscious of the Temperature of Your Household Water Heater
Do you know what the temperature of the water heater in your house is?
Well, it is good to be knowledgeable about your water heater because it directly impacts the heat of the PETG products. So check the temperature and memorize what the level is so you can play around with it if need be.
Keep in mind that PETG is heat-resistant, which is an excellent quality when it comes to going inside a hot and steamy dishwasher.
However, if the dishwasher has a heat level that increases above 167 °F (75 °C), then there is a high chance that your PETG will warp.
Once the PETG warps, it will, unfortunately, change shape and size. This is certainly something you do not want happening to your beloved items.
While this is a harmful side effect of using a dishwasher, as long as you can regulate the water temperature in your house and pay attention to how it correlates with the PETG, then you should be just fine running it through a cycle.
Regulate the Dryer Setting on the Dishwasher
After your dishes have been washed and lathered with soap and water, the dishwasher will dry them at a high temperature.
Well, can PETG run through a dryer cycle as well in your dishwasher?
Yes, it can as long as you are conscious of how strong the drying cycle is once it reaches that point in the process.
If the drying process is too high or far too strong, then the PETG may crack. If you can regulate the dryer settings, you should be just fine.
Not only will you end up with super clean products, but they will also be dry!
Conclusion
Practically speaking, it is safe to use PETG in your dishwasher. You don’t have to worry about it carrying toxins or becoming hazardous.
It is crucial to monitor the various impacts the heat of the water can have on PETG, which fortunately is mostly heat-resistant.
As long as you follow a few simple steps, then you can safely run your PETG through a wash and dry cycle in your dishwasher.
Now you do not need to worry about hand washing your items, and you can let technology do the work!
- Written by:
- Ben
- Last updated:
- 11/11/2023
About Ben
I started 3D printing since 2013 and have learned a lot since then. Because of this I want to share my knowledge of what I have learned in the past years with the community. Currently I own 2 Bambulab X1 Carbon, Prusa SL1S and a Prusa MK3S+. Hope you learn something from my blog after my years of experience in 3D printing.