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
Can we apply dishwasher safe mod podge on a clear coated lacquered Brass metal bowl ?
Hi Amaan! Hmmmm . . if it’s lacquered, it might not *take* the Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge really well. Mod Podge and other acrylic products don’t always work well with other sealers. You could test it. But my guess is no.
Have you ever successfully removed dishwasher-safe modpodge after it’s been curing for a few days? I did a project with it, and I’m not thrilled with the results. I’d like to remove it and start over but not sure if there’s a product I could use to remove it, and wondering if you’ve tried anything that worked?
Your ability to remove a glue totally depends on the glue but also where it is in the curing process. You’re early in the process so it should be somewhat easy(ish) to remove. Check out this post: https://modpodgerocksblog.com/how-to-remove-mod-podge/
Dishwasher safe mod podge fabric on glass – I have about 40 plates standing upright on plate racks for about 2 weeks now. Is the 28 day cure time only for washing the plates? Can I safely pack up my plates or do I need to wait the 28 days to even pack them up. These are Xmas gifts so they are not going to be given out for quite some time.
Hi there, new to Mod Podge. I am using the dishwasher safe to make coasters. I am aware that I need to cure for 28 days, I also wanted to add a coat or 2 of the Mod Podge clear acrylic sealer for extra protection, should I wait until the curing process is complete before sealing?
Thank you
Hi Ginette! The curing is just for it to reach its maximum strength. You can go ahead and apply sealer any time!
Can this be used to revamp a stand mixer?
It really depends on what you are doing! If you are attaching paper or fabric, you’ll really have to rough up the surface to get the Mod Podge to stick. This is because those stand mixers have a coating on them and are waterproof. If you paint it, here’s the guide: https://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-paint-a-kitchenaid-stand-mixer-255810
Hi there,
I wanted to try alcohol ink mugs…
I tested it with 3 cots 1hr in between, for 28 days, too rack off the dishwasher and it peeled off? Why? I want to sell these!! I can’t clean it as alcohol ink will run off! What should I do!??
Hello! Since you aren’t decoupaging paper or fabric to the mug, you’re probably going to want to use something else. I would try this process: https://www.dickblick.com/project-ideas/create-custom-alcohol-ink-mugs/
Alcohol inks are somewhat tricky and are water soluble so the interaction with Mod Podge . . . is different. I recommend Mod Podge Dishwasher Safe for instances where you want to attach fabric, paper, glitter or other raised items. When you’re just dyeing or painting, there are tougher solutions.
I was recently at a craft show and a lady was selling dishes that were Mod Podge with material and she they were dishwater and microwave safe is this true?
They might be dishwasher safe (top rack) but they are not microwave safe with just Mod Podge. I address in the post! Now if she’s doing something else to them with a different craft material that I am unaware of . . . that could be. If it’s just Mod Podge, no.
Why does this take acrylic paint off my tile? I painted and left to dry then as I applied the modpodge it’s lifted the paint!
Was it paint made for tile? It’s not the Mod Podge – it would happen with any product. It’s because the paint isn’t adhered to the tile as it should be. That means it’s either not multisurface or glass or it wasn’t cured or dried properly!
I make Velcro patches for teams. I print the pattern on mailing labels with an inkjet printer and stick them on the hook side of the velcro. Will the dishwasher safe also be machine washable?
Hi Joseph! I would use something way stronger for that, given that Velcro has some plastic in it and Mod Podge doesn’t work well with polymers. I think there would be a better product that I would ask about at the fabric store . . . Dishwasher Safe Mod Podge is more for decoupage on items that you would like to wash in the dishwasher, top rack. It’s not meant for these type of applications! Thank you.
Can you use a Transparent ceramic paint over the dishwasher safe medium?
That is a good question – I’m not sure. If you are talking about for firing it, no – you can’t fire Dishwasher Safe. Which I think you need to do to that ceramic paint to make it work?