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
Is there a way to remove disheasher safe modge podge from a ceramic deviled egg plate? I painted it on 12 hours ago and I sat it in our mini oven to dry (i know but its only place to keep my tiny humans from touching) and well my hubby didn’t see it in the oven and turned it on to preheat…..
Long story short: I have brown discovered spots all over it and its an egg plate so its not easily “scraped off” Can the modge podge be removed? If so, what do I use?
Hi Courtney! I have a post about that: https://modpodgerocksblog.com/how-to-remove-mod-podge/
I would try soaking it. Although with the baking, I don’t know if that will work. I’ve never experienced the brown issue. Sorry that happened to you!
I was thinking about using mod podge for making tumblers, do you recommend this? if so what do you think is the best way to go about this?
Hi Meaghan! The Mod Podge works great if you want to do something like this: https://modpodgerocksblog.com/diy-travel-mug/ or something like this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RCIipsGmOew
If you want to do one that is more durable, you can use the resin: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JKztsNsOITA
It’s really up to personal preference! The resin is longer lasting.
Nice information.Quick question, what Mod Podge do I use to glue fabric to flip flops? Thank you in advance for your answer.
We have a tutorial here! https://modpodgerocksblog.com/scrap-fabric-wrapped-summer-diy-sandals/
Having said that, you don’t have to use the fabric formula. You can use Gloss or Matte.
Does this also add UV light (sunlight) protection as well ?
I do not see UV mentioned anywhere.
No, it does not add UV protection. Mod Podge Ultra has UV protection!
hi i have a really old kitchen table that i want to decoupage and i was told to use Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge. was this recommendation correct?
I would use Hard Coat Mod Podge. It’s made for furniture: https://modpodgerocksblog.com/mod-podge-hard-coat/
Dishwasher safe is made for things that go into the Dishwasher. You’ll want to use Hard Coat, and if your table is going to get wet a lot, just paint a clear waterproof sealer on top to make it tougher: https://modpodgerocksblog.com/is-mod-podge-waterproof/
Oops. Pardon my typo. Modge podge not MIDGE LODGE 😂
Haha! Not a problem. Sometimes I make mistakes with the typing too lol
Can I use midge lodge dishwasher safe gloss as a sealer over hand painted glass paint( vitral) which was painted on wine glasses and ceramic plates
Yes ma’am! You can. I’m not sure of the Vitrail curing instructions though. Do you need it? If it’s not Dishwasher Safe with the Pebeo, the MP will work. Just be sure to observe the curing instructions and always hand wash!
Thank you for all of your help! I used spray paint on a mug & a wine glass, then applied stickers, & then the dishwasher safe mod podge. I’m still in the creation process…first question- was that a bad idea? 2nd question- is there such thing as too many coats? You said somewhere that perhaps it didn’t work bc the coats weren’t thick enough. I feel like all of my coats are so thin.
Hi I’m wondering if I use the dishwasher safe mod podge over regular acrylic paint not made for glass on a wine glass or glass vase would it seal it so that it doesn’t wash off? Thanks!
Hi Jodi! Hmmm . . . I wouldn’t try that only because I believe that original acrylic paint will peel. But you know . . . I’m not quite sure. It would require a test. I’ve always used glass paint!
I used the dishwasher safe on a yeti water bottle for our son, it cured for 28 days. He took it to field day and brought it home, it started peeling.. how do I fix it!?
Hi Cassandra! I wouldn’t use Dishwasher Safe with Yeti. They put coatings on their mugs that don’t work well with Mod Podge (or other acrylic products). I’d use permanent vinyl OR coat the Yeti with resin as a final finish.