Okay to Wash Guns in the Dishwasher?..Fact or Total Internet BS?

Published on April 22, 2026
Duration: 7:04

Washing firearms in a dishwasher is strongly advised against due to the high risk of rust and corrosion. Water can penetrate microscopic pores in metal, leading to damage even after oiling, as oil is oxygen permeable. While polymer frames are less susceptible, hidden moisture can still cause issues. Proper gun cleaning is quick and effective, making dishwasher washing an unnecessary and damaging risk.

Quick Summary

Washing firearms in a dishwasher is strongly advised against due to the high risk of rust and corrosion. Water can penetrate microscopic pores in metal, leading to damage even after oiling, as oil is oxygen permeable. Proper gun cleaning is quick and effective, making dishwasher washing an unnecessary and damaging risk.

Chapters

  1. 00:11Intro: Dishwasher Gun Cleaning Myth
  2. 00:34Origin of the Dishwasher Gun Myth
  3. 01:34Why You Should NEVER Wash Guns in Dishwasher
  4. 01:53Water, Oxygen, Rust, and Corrosion Explained
  5. 02:16Metal Porosity and Moisture Trapping
  6. 03:10Dishwasher vs. Condensation: The Damage Difference
  7. 03:53Why Oiling After Dishwasher Washing Fails
  8. 04:46Washing Polymer Frames: Still Risky?
  9. 05:54Risk vs. Reward: Proper Cleaning is Easy
  10. 06:19Conclusion: Total Internet BS

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to wash a gun in the dishwasher?

No, it is not safe to wash a gun in the dishwasher. The process exposes metal parts to excessive moisture and heat, leading to rust, corrosion, and pitting. Even polymer frames can retain hidden moisture that damages metal components.

What are the main risks of putting a gun in the dishwasher?

The primary risks are rust and corrosion. Water penetrates the porous metal surfaces of a firearm, and even after drying, residual moisture combined with oxygen causes damage. This can lead to pitting and compromise the firearm's functionality and longevity.

Can oil protect a gun washed in a dishwasher?

No, oil is not sufficient protection. While oil can prevent immediate rust, it is oxygen permeable. Trapped water beneath the oil will continue to interact with oxygen, accelerating rust and corrosion over time, potentially causing worse damage than if the gun was left un-oiled.

What about washing just the polymer frame of a handgun?

Even washing only the polymer frame is risky. While the frame itself may not rust, plastic can absorb and retain moisture. This hidden water can then transfer to metal parts like the slide, rails, or internal components when reassembled, causing rust and damage.

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