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Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge: Your Complete Guide!

Learn all about the Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge formula! Find out what it is, how to use it, and see some projects you can make.

Don’t forget to scroll down to the bottom of the page to see some ideas for this formula, including glitter glasses.

Mod Podge Dishwasher Safe

It’s always hard to pick my favorite of the Mod Podge formulas, and it definitely depends on the day. However, I will say that Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge is definitely always a front runner, and for good reason. What other decoupage formula can you WASH?!

There isn’t one.

Dishwasher Safe is the decoupage formula that you can apply to glass, ceramic, and metal – and then you’ll be able to wash the item. And when I say “put in the dishwasher,” I mean on the top rack after it cures.

This water based formula is indoor/outdoor durable (though I typically use Outdoor Mod Podge for outdoor projects).

Does it really work? Absolutely!

I’ve tested many projects with this formula, and if you follow the instructions EXACTLY, your item can be washed in the dishwasher.

If you are wondering about instructions, here you go. These are the steps you should follow for success:

  1. Clean your project surface. I wash glass, ceramic, and metal with warm soapy water – rinse thoroughly, and let dry. If your piece is too large, using rubbing alcohol and a cotton ball to clean.
  2. Roll your bottle on the table to mix it.
  3. Open and use a soft bristle brush to apply the finish to the surface and the back of the design element.
  4. While the Mod Podge is still wet, place the design onto the surface and smooth.
  5. Do not apply the design element where it can be in contact with food or your lips. For example, apply to the back of a glass plate or 1/4″ down from the edge of a cup.
  6. Let dry for 1- 2 hours and then apply 2 – 3 more coats. Let dry 1 – 2 hours between coats.
  7. Cure your project for 28 days.
  8. Wash by hand or in the top rack of the dishwasher.

Now that you’ve gotten the skinny on how to use it, here are some common questions I get about the formula. I’ve provided the answers to the best of my ability!

Questions About Dishwasher Safe Gloss

1. Isn’t all Mod Podge dishwasher safe? Why do I need a special formula?

This is a common misconception. All Mod Podges are not dishwasher safe. For example, Outdoor formula is highly water-resistant but not waterproof. If you want to be able to wash a decoupaged item in the dishwasher, you need this formula!

2. Is Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge also microwave safe?

Negative. You shouldn’t microwave anything you make with this formula.

3. What is the finish of this formula?

It is Glossy – so shiny. You can see what a Mod Podge glossy finish looks like here.

4. What sizes does the formula come in?

It comes in 8 ounce and 16 ounce. You can find out where to buy this formula (amongst others) here.

5. What is the cure time – when can I wash my project?

You need to wait 28 days. Not 10 or 17 or 26 – 28! Please wait the full time frame for the best results.

6. Do I really have to wait 28 days for it to cure?

Yes. Cure time is different than dry time. Dry is dry to the touch. Curing is a chemical strengthening process you can’t rush. It is when the formula has reached its peak chemical performance (essentially).

7. I waited the cure time and my project messed up!

You may not have put on enough layers of Mod Podge, or they may not have been thick enough. Or if you didn’t clean your surface before beginning, regular oils from hands and other things can cause the formula not to adhere appropriately.

8. Why can’t the Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge touch my food or lips?

While it is water based and non-toxic (so it won’t hurt you), it’s not FDA approved food-safe. it would be very unusual for a glue to be approved for use with food! So please keep it away from anything edible.

9. How do I prepare my surface to apply this formula?

Clean with warm soapy water if the item is small – or use rubbing alcohol and cotton balls, especially if the item is larger.

10. Can I still use the formula on wood?

Yes you can. Having said that, you aren’t going to want to wash a piece of wood in the dishwasher. If this is the only formula you have, you can still use it like regular Mod Podge.

11. Can I use Dishwasher Safe with vinyl?

No, you don’t want to use any Mod Podge formula with permanent or temporary vinyl. Vinyl is a plastic and Mod Podge is an acrylic product, and those don’t seal plastic very well.

Permanent vinyl doesn’t need to be sealed typically – which is why it’s called permanent. I’m not a vinyl expert though! I would make sure your vinyl is dishwasher safe if that is what is you are looking for.

12. Where can I purchase it?

This formula is available on Amazon.com, Michaels, or online at Jo-ann.com.


Are you ready for some project ideas? Check out the links below!

Ready to try Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge? Here are some awesome projects you can start with!


Let me know your favorite projects or any questions you might have in the comments! I’d also love for you to check out these other Mod Podge formulas:

BrushstrokeDimensional MagicExtreme GlitterFabricFurnitureGlossGlow in the DarkHard CoatMatteOutdoorPhoto Transfer MediumPuzzle SaverSatinSparkleStiffyUltraSuper Matte

Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge Web Story

Cindi

Friday 23rd of February 2024

I have some sea shells I want to use in my planter in my front yard which gets direct sun light. Will this Mod Podge work to preserve the color of my shells? Thank you!

Amy

Friday 23rd of February 2024

Only the outdoor is UV friendly. But since you're not decoupaging, you can just get a UV sealer. Keep in mind that if you're in Florida, AZ, CA, and the rays are super harsh, acrylic products might not be enough. You might need something more industrial or to move them to a different location. The suns rays are so damaging to acrylic even with UV protection.

Josie W

Monday 30th of October 2023

Can dishwasher Mod Podge be used when ironing on napkins/tissue/fabric on glass? Can glitter Mod Podge be applied to the glass first and then follow with dishwasher safe applications after the ironing is done?

Christina

Thursday 19th of October 2023

Which product would you use to make a stiff dish scrubber. Like the ones that are just a piece of stiffened beach towel. You say the dishwasher safe ModPodge isn't food safe, but if its being used to wash dishes.....

Dishwasher ModPodge? Hardcoat ModPodge? Something else?

Amy

Sunday 22nd of October 2023

Hi Christina! I wouldn't use Mod Podge. It's not meant for that type of application. Those are called Swedish dish cloths and they are made of "100 percent naturally biodegradable cellulose or a combination of wood pulp and renewable cotton." You could also make them out of jute. https://www.papernstitchblog.com/natural-diy-dish-scrubber/

NJ

Wednesday 13th of September 2023

Hello: Can I use dishwasher-safe Mod Podge over an acrylic painted bisqued ceramic tray?

If not, are there any paints, inks, or oxides that would work with dishwasher-safe Mod Podge on a bisqued ceramic tray?

Amy

Tuesday 3rd of October 2023

So it should be pretty porous I'm assuming? You should be fine. Having said that, I've never done it. But Mod Podge works fine with bisque and acrylic paint. Do a test first!

Angie M

Saturday 22nd of July 2023

I use this on my clear glass cup after I had applied permanent vinyl to it and I put only 1 thin layer but it made the glass foggy and its been over 28 days now, what did I do wrong? (I did use the Mod podge application brushes.)

Amy

Wednesday 2nd of August 2023

Hi Angie! You are seeing the Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge where it dried, so you didn't do anything wrong. It's a clear product, but not crystal clear on clear glass, so you will see a film. Mod Podge isn't meant to be used with vinyl, and permanent vinyl doesn't need to be sealed.