Cook with Color is a popular brand of silicone bakeware that comes in a variety of bright, vibrant colors. Their products include baking pans, muffin tins, cupcake liners, mixing bowls and more. One of the benefits of silicone bakeware is that it is generally safe to clean in the dishwasher. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to cleaning Cook with Color products.
The Benefits of Silicone Bakeware
Silicone is a synthetic rubber material that is heat-resistant, non-stick, flexible and able to withstand temperatures from -40°F to 428°F. Here are some of the benefits of silicone bakeware:
- Non-stick – Food won’t stick to silicone like it can with metal pans.
- Easy release – Baked goods come out of silicone molds easily.
- Durable – Silicone is resistant to stains and odors.
- Versatile – Can be used for baking, freezing, refrigerating and reheating food.
- dishwasher-safe – Most silicone products can be cleaned in the dishwasher.
- Oven-safe – Silicone is safe to use at high baking temperatures.
- Food-safe – Silicone won’t react with food acids or oils.
These properties make silicone a great choice for bakeware. Cook with Color capitalizes on silicone’s versatility and eye-catching potential with their colorful pans, molds and accessories.
Are Cook with Color Products Dishwasher Safe?
For the most part, Yes! Cook with Color indicates that most of their products are top-rack dishwasher safe. They recommend washing on a gentle cycle and avoiding high heat drying cycles.
However, there are a few exceptions. Here are the dishwasher recommendations for specific Cook with Color products:
| Product | Dishwasher Safe? |
|---|---|
| Bakeware Pans | Yes |
| Muffin Pans | Yes |
| Mixing Bowls | Yes |
| Colanders | Yes |
| Silicone Oven Mitts & Trivets | No |
| Kitchen Utensils | Yes |
| Cupcake & Cake Pan Liners | No |
As shown in the table, items like silicone mitts, trivets and liners should not be placed in the dishwasher. The high heat and harsh detergent can damage these accessories over time.
Tips for Washing Cook with Color in the Dishwasher
Here are some best practices when placing Cook with Color products in the dishwasher:
- Wash on gentle cycle using low or no heat drying.
- Avoid high-heat sanitation cycles.
- Use a mild detergent, avoid aggressive additives.
- Allow items to air dry instead of using the drying cycle.
- Place delicate items on the top rack only.
- Avoid overcrowding and allow water/soap to circulate.
- Use a dishwasher basket or lingerie bag for small parts.
It’s also a good idea to regularly inspect silicone pieces for any signs of damage like cracking, tearing or melt marks. Discontinue dishwashing if this occurs.
Hand Washing Methods
For Cook with Color items that are not dishwasher safe or if you prefer to hand wash, follow these tips:
- Use warm, soapy water and a soft sponge or cloth.
- Avoid abrasive scrubbers that could scratch surfaces.
- Gently wash and use a bottle brush for any narrow pieces.
- Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue.
- Air dry completely before storing.
- For stains, soak in warm water with baking soda/vinegar.
- Use non-bleach kitchen cleaners and avoid harsh chemicals.
Hand washing is gentlest on all silicone accessories. Take time to carefully hand wash liners, mitts and any discolored or delicate pieces.
Can You Put Cook with Color in the Oven?
Yes, Cook with Color silicone pans and molds are oven safe up to 428°F. The silicone material is designed to withstand high baking heats. As long as you follow oven safety best practices, Cook with Color products can safely go directly from freezer to oven as well.
A few tips for using Cook with Color bakeware in the oven:
- Always preheat the oven fully before placing silicone pans inside.
- Avoid broiler function and open flame.
- Use mitt or towel when removing hot pans.
- Don’t exceed 428°F oven temperature.
- Avoid oven cleaning cycles.
- Prevent contact with oven walls or heating elements.
- Allow pans to fully cool before washing.
With proper use, Cook with Color pans and molds can safely be used for baking, roasting, freezing, thawing and food storage.
Reasons to Hand Wash Certain Items
While most Cook with Color products are dishwasher safe, certain pieces should only be hand washed. Here’s why:
| Item | Reasons to Hand Wash |
|---|---|
| Silicone Oven Mitts & Trivets |
|
| Cupcake & Cake Liners |
|
| Colored Mixing Bowls |
|
For these specialty pieces, the high heat and harsh detergents in dishwashers can degrade the silicone and fabrics over time. Gentle, thorough hand washing preserves the quality and appearance of these Cook with Color products.
Tips for Removing Stains
Silicone bakeware is prone to staining from oil, spices, food dye and other ingredients. Here are some tips for removing stains from Cook with Color products:
- Baking soda/vinegar soak – Mix baking soda and vinegar into a paste, apply to stains and let sit before washing. The bubbles will help lift stains.
- Lemon juice – Squeeze lemon juice onto stained areas and let sit before washing. The acidity helps break down stains.
- Hydrogen peroxide – Apply peroxide directly onto stains using a cotton swab. Let bubble for 5 minutes before rinsing.
- Sunlight – Set stained silicone bakeware in direct sunlight. The UV rays naturally bleach and fade stains over time.
- Denture tablets – Drop a denture tablet into warm water with silicone item and soak before washing. Enzymes will help eliminate set-in stains.
Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive scrubbers and bleach when removing stains to prevent damage to the silicone. With some targeted cleaning tricks, Cook with Color products can look like new again!
Storing Cook with Color Products
Proper storage can help keep your Cook with Color bakeware looking its best between uses. Here are some storage tips:
- Ensure silicone is completely dry before storing to prevent mildew.
- Stack items to maximize cabinet or shelf space.
- Place liners in airtight containers or bags.
- Store mitts laid flat, not hanging.
- Avoid direct sunlight, heat sources and cold spaces.
- Use padded dividers, shelves or baskets to prevent scratching.
If possible, display your Cook with Color collection! The bright colors make for fun, eye-catching kitchen decor.
Know When to Replace Cook with Color Products
With proper care, most Cook with Color silicone products can last for years. However, normal wear and tear can eventually damage bakeware. Watch for these signs that it may be time to replace an item:
- Cracking, tearing or rips
- Pitting, scratches or abrasions
- Warping or changes in shape
- Greasy film that won’t wash off
- Staining that cannot be removed
- Melting, burn marks or heat damage
For consumables like cupcake liners and oven mitts, expect to replace these more frequently with regular use. Avoid using damaged silicone products with food.
Conclusion
Cook with Color makes dishwasher-safe silicone bakeware that adds brightness and whimsy to any kitchen. While their products are made to withstand high temperatures and frequent cleaning, taking some precautions will help them last. Use the gentle cycle, only wash dishwasher-safe items, hand wash delicates and promptly remove stains. With proper use and care, Cook with Color bakeware will keep its vibrant colors and stay in top baking shape for years to come!
