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
Hi! I want to make little salt dishes. Can I coat regular mid podge with a food safe varnish and confidently call it food safe?
Yes, if the top layer is food safe, then it’s food safe!
Can you use dishwasher safe Modge Podge on epoxy resin bowl? Can you put things like tortilla chips in it? What do you recommend for food safe and dishwasher safe AND microwave safe? Or is there even such a thing?
I used mod podge dishwasher safe with food coloring to do stained glass jars I washes the jars before starting and dried them and painted them and waited for it to cure a long time and it came off when it got wet what am I doing wrong
I am intending to use my Mason jars for foaming soap dispensers. I thought this would give the best protection from water……., but I want them matte. Can I use this first to make them more water safe then top coat with a matte spray/modge podge just to have the finish? I would not picture anyone ever washing it in the washing machine, but just want to make sure it’s as sealed as possible in that environment. Thanks in advance (I have asked to join the Facebook group, but haven’t been approved yet)
I am looking for a food grade varnish and came across your piece about dishwasher safe mod podge – you then say it isn’t food safe. I was wondering why you would put stuff in the dishwasher if it hadn’t had food on it? I am confused 😂
I want to decoupage scallop shells to make little serving dishes. Many thanks, Hilly
Hi Hillary! You can attach fabric to the bottom of clear glass plates – glitter to mugs below the rim . . . stuff like that. So these items are decoupaged but the decoupage areas aren’t touching food or a mouth. While Mod Podge isn’t toxic, it’s just not food grade. People let food touch it (that is up to the individual) but I can’t recommend it.
I want to put pictures on a plastic cooler. Which mod podge is best for this project?