The rule of thumb is to NEVER wash a good knife in the dishwasher. Heat and steam will ruin wood handles and excessive movement will cause nicks on blade. Always knives by hand, use a mild detergent and thoroughly dry with a towel. However, if you want to use the dishwater, place knives in upper shelf only (to lesen excessive movement and damage to blades), Do not use a heated cycle becasue heat will crack and/warp wooden handles.