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
Nice you have been outdoors..i live southern california😊
I been trying to put a picture on a champagne bottle but all the videos i see are decorating the whole bottle and i just want put the picture on the bottle when i tey dows not looks good ..do you have any ideas? How do it good?
I was wondering if you could elaborate on the curing process. What exactly do I need to do?
Hi Laura! Sure. So the difference between drying and curing first. Dry is when it’s dried to the touch. Curing is when the little particles have reached their maximum hardness and bond – and it takes longer. So once the mug is dry to the touch, you need to leave it for 28 days more for the bonding and hardness to happen so that it can be washed. You don’t need to “do” anything except leave the item to sit. You can use it and rinse it out gently, but don’t hand wash or place in the dishwasher until it’s cured. I hope that helps.
Question(s): Does this only work with paper or fabric on a glass (or ceramic etc) surface to make it waterproof enough to be able to wash it?
I ask because I want to decorate different glassware (wine glasses, vases, etc.) with seed beads or other very small non flat materials that can at least be washed by hand without harming my artwork. Can I do this with the dishwasher safe Modge Podge? Or is there another Modge Podge product offered that will have the results I’m looking for & needing so as to not damage what I’ve created?
*(I’m really hoping I get an answer to this as it doesn’t look like the comments below have been answered as of yet & it has been many months since they posted)
Hi Kristine – I’ve answered all the questions and I can see my responses so I’m not sure why are you aren’t seeing them . . . but to answer your question, it will seal lots of things to a surface but not three dimensional objects. There isn’t a Mod Podge available that will do what you’re looking to do, and unfortunately I’m not sure what product would work for this purpose.
Can you use dishwasher modge podge in a canvas bag they may be washed occasionally, in the washing machine of course?
Hi Sarah! Fabric Mod Podge is made for this purpose. I’ve never tried washing Mod Podge Dishwasher Safe in the washing machine. If you already own a bottle of it, you could glue two scrap pieces of fabric together, let them dry, and wash to see if it would work. That’s what I would do! Otherwise, I’d purchase Fabric Mod Podge.
Amy, I appreciate all of your articles and crafts with Mod Podge. Will the Dishwasher Safe formula work for repairing a broken china platter? I was going to use Gorilla Glue but don’t think it’s food safe. The broken piece is towards the edge where food doesn’t need to be placed. And this platter isn’t used much at all so we don’t have to be concerned about it being exposed to water regularly. Any help with this repair project is greatly appreciated! Thank you! Denise
Hi Denise! Mod Podge doesn’t hold ceramic. I do recommend Gorilla Glue or another ceramic glue for this purpose. It should still be fine if food isn’t near it!
Quick question…step 3 in the process says to apply to the surface and the back of the design element. If I am using a napkin, that would not really be possible. Can I put it on a glass, for example, then the napkin and then more mod podge?
Hi Wendy! Yes, you’re fine. For more fragile/thin items like napkins, you’ll get enough Mod Podge on there doing it the way you’re talking about. This is just to make sure if people use scrapbook paper or Fabric that it gets sealed really well so water doesn’t get in.
I’m thrilled to see this! I’m hoping to use the dishwasher-safe podgie for a project with my seniors but want to be 100% sure… this product *is* safe for ceramic cups used for hot beverages?
Yes it is! Stay 3/4″ below the lid, clean the mugs thoroughly, and observe the 28 day curing time! Enjoy!!
Can I use dishwasher safe as base and sealer on glass with oil paints?
Oooh – good question. I don’t believe that Mod Podge would play well with oil based paints.
Actually, I used the Sharpie oil based paint pens and then the fishwasher safe and it works very well, if allowed to cure completely before any other coat is added. Just be sure to use a light touch when brushing it on and be sure the oil paint is 100% dry first or it will smear.
@Amy, thanks!
I placed a permanent vinyl made on a Cricut Joy. I did clean with rubbing alcohol. After 2 coats the clear glass is foggy.
Hi Jim! It should dry clear. If it doesn’t, let’s ask in the Facebook group.
@Amy, Hi. I used permanent vinyl on a glass and used dishwasher safe mod podge and I can see the clear dried brush strokes. Help! How do i fix this?
Hi Karen! You should be able scrape away the excess with a razor blade or craft knife! Ideally you do this right after it dries or even wipe it away with a wet rag before it dries. Note for the future: Mod Podge doesn’t really protect permanent vinyl any more than it works on its own.
I have a question… you see plastic Christmas plates decorated and they can de eaten off of and washed. I have a plastic “ football tray that I want to decorate with a team logo.. but what’ can I use todo this that is good safe and can be (hand) washed
Hi Anne! Unfortunately Mod Podge – none of the formulas – are food safe.