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.
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:
- 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.
- Roll your bottle on the table to mix it.
- Open and use a soft bristle brush to apply the finish to the surface and the back of the design element.
- While the Mod Podge is still wet, place the design onto the surface and smooth.
- 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.
- Let dry for 1- 2 hours and then apply 2 – 3 more coats. Let dry 1 – 2 hours between coats.
- Cure your project for 28 days.
- 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!
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:
Brushstroke • Dimensional Magic • Extreme Glitter • Fabric • Furniture • Gloss • Glow in the Dark • Hard Coat • Matte • Outdoor • Photo Transfer Medium • Puzzle Saver • Satin • Sparkle • Stiffy • Ultra • Super Matte
If I use Iron on Vinyl on my mug, than I’m a able touse the Mod Podge over that?? Or do I still need to use it before putting the design down???
Hmmmm – I think iron on vinyl you would need to glue it down first. I would use adhesive vinyl personally!
Used Dishwasher safe Mod Podge over printable vinyl on a mug. I was under the impression that before the 28 days it could be used and hand washed, just not put in dishwasher. I drank hot chocolate, and hand washed and the vinyl bubbled up. Are you literally not supposed to use it for 28 days?? Did I misunderstand?
Hi Judith – it does need to cure the entire 28 days. I’m not sure why the vinyl bubbled up though even though you had hand washed it before. Is it possible for you join this group on Facebook and ask the question? It’s a huge group of crafters and someone will know the answer. Thank you!
Can the 28 day cure time be accelerated in an oven at a low heat?
Hi Matthew! I asked Plaid and unfortunately no – you’ll have to wait the 28 days!
Hi! Im using if this is being used and it is dishwasher safe, it is also safe for handwashing? I just wanted to double check, I wasn’t sure if the wear and tear of using a dish sponge on it may effect this top coat differently than a dishwasher. Thanks! Very helpful info in here!
Hi Emily! Yes, it can withstand. A little known secret for people who scrub . . . you can reapply every now and again and just let it cure again!
Thank you so much! Any tips on how to get a nice smooth coating? I’ve found on my second coat it started to crackle a little and pick up the layer underneath, but i waited an hour and a half between coats?
I AM USING THE DISHWASHER SAFE MOD PODGE FOR FABRIC ON PLATES. I KNOW THEY ARE DISHWASHER SAFE ON TOP RACK – BUT ARE THEY MICROWAVE SAFE?
Kari, they are not microwave safe. Thank you for asking!
Can you add mica powder or a drop or two of alcohol ink to color
the Dishwasher Mod Podge or any of the othe Mod Podge products?
Hi Louise! You definitely can. I talk about how to tint Mod Podge here: https://modpodgerocksblog.com/colored-mason-jars/
You can use the mica or alcohol ink in place of food coloring. Have fun!
I’m wrapping yarn around tumblers and sealing with dishwasher safe mod podge. After 4 coats I’m still feeling the yarn texture. If I keep applying it will it ever fill in the cracks and be smooth?? I’d really like to avoid using epoxy.
i have a question actually. I am new to this and do NOT have the hard surface or dishwasher safe yet. I was wondering if i could use regular modpodge for my first 2 coats then get the better one and finish with it on top?? much like others do with epoxy…
I think this would be great to use on those free advertising mugs. The decopouge could cover the ads. There are also tons of these at thrift stores.
#1 can I use this fabric mod podge to seal the top surface of my patches, in order to keep patches from wear and tear?
#2 will the fabric mod podge adhere patches to leather??
#3 is the dimensional Mod Podge water prof.?
#4 can you apply fabric mod podge over the top of dimensional mod podge?
Thank you for your time,
Rissielerai@gmail.com
Even though though dishwasher-safe Mod Podge is available, I have never elected to use it. Way back, when the only kind of Mod Podge we could buy was the glossy kind, it was the gloss that was the one thing that made me slow to embrace the stuff. I like a glossy finish for some things, but just a few.
I have several things I’ve made and the materials I’ve used claim to be dishwasher safe, but I never put them in the dishwasher. I have certain things I’ve purchased that say “dishwasher-safe” on the bottom, (like a vase for instance). I never put them in the dishwasher. I do not mind in the least making up a sink full of soapy water and handwashing a few things. When I see the normal wear and tear a dishwasher tolls on my dishes and glasses, I’m not willing to risk placing anything I’ve put time, money and creativity toward to save myself a few minutes at the sink.
Hi Judy! Thank you for your perspective! I definitely think you have to do what works for you 😀