10 Things Cleaning Pros Say You Should Never Wash With Soap

When you’re in a deep-cleaning frenzy, it can be tempting to tackle everything with soap. But soap isn’t the best fit for every item in your home, and it can even cause further damage in some cases. Here are some common household objects that shouldn’t be cleaned with soap (and how you can wash them instead).

Cast iron skillets are a must-have tool for any home cook, and they require special care to be long-lasting. When cleaning a cast iron skillet, you shouldn’t rely on copious amounts of soap, says Angela Rubin, content manager at Hellamaid. 

“Soap can break down the seasoning on cast iron, which is essential for its non-stick properties and rust prevention,” Rubin says.

As an alternative method, Rubin recommends arming yourself with a stiff brush, hot water, and Kosher salt. 

Stainless steel is a popular choice for kitchen appliances, partially because of how easy it is to clean. All you need to clean stainless steel is a towel, microfiber cloth, and some water—but no soap. 

“Stainless steel is very porous, and soaps can leave behind residue in the small crevices that are difficult to rinse away completely,” says Max Mattes, restoration expert and owner at Max Paint & Restoration in Louisville, Kentucky. “Over time, this buildup can cause dullness or discoloration on the surface.”

Don’t put that wooden cutting board in the dishwasher. The soap and water exposure will, over time, cause the wood to split and crack apart, says Lina DaSilva, founder of Toronto Shine Cleaning. 

But it’s still important to clean and disinfect your cutting board after every use, and this can be done by wiping it with a vinegar and water mixture. 

Like cutting boards, knives can be damaged by repeated soap and water exposure.