Dawn Powerwash is one of those cleaning products that’s basically earned its own fan club. It’s so easy to use, and it gets stuff done fast. You spray it, wait a second, and wipe it off. No scrubbing required.

But here's the catch: even though it’s awesome, there are a few things it’s not great for. In fact, using it on certain surfaces could damage them.

In this post, I’ll shed some light on what not to use Dawn Powerwash on.

#1 Unfinished Wood

Unfinished wood is one of those things you should just never use Dawn Powerwash on.

The thing about unfinished wood is that it's super absorbent. If you spray it with any kind of cleaner, especially one that’s liquid-based, it’s going to soak right into the wood.

That can cause stains, warping, or even permanent damage.

You want to treat unfinished wood with care, so go for a cleaner that's designed specifically for it.

A gentle wood cleaner or something like lemon oil works much better for this type of surface.

If you're working with wood that's not sealed or treated, it's probably best to just skip the Powerwash and stick to a dry cloth or a wood-safe cleaner that won’t soak in.

Also Read: How To Remove Alcohol Stains On Wood

#2 Cast Iron

Cast iron cookware is another no-go for Dawn Powerwash.

If you have cast iron pans or skillets, you already know they need a little extra TLC. The big thing with cast iron is seasoning. The more you use it, the better the seasoning gets, which creates a naturally nonstick surface.

If you spray Dawn Powerwash on your cast iron, you could strip away that layer of seasoning.

And that’s a problem because it means your pan won’t perform as well, and it’s at risk of rusting.

For cast iron, stick to good ol' hot water and a stiff brush. If it’s really stubborn, use a bit of coarse salt to help scrub it out.

#3 Granite And Marble

Granite and marble might seem like they can handle a little Powerwash action, but they really can’t.

These materials are beautiful, but they’re also kind of high maintenance. They’re porous, which means they absorb stuff easily.

The chemicals in the cleaner can eat away at the sealant that protects these stones. Once the sealant is gone, the stone becomes vulnerable to stains, etching, and damage from acidic foods or drinks.

Cleaning granite or marble requires a pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for stone surfaces. Trust me, it’s worth the extra effort to keep them looking gorgeous.

#4 Glass With UV Coatings

We’ve all got some glass surfaces in our homes. Windows, mirrors, and even glass shower doors. But when it comes to glass with UV coatings, you’ve got to be careful.

#5 Nonstick Cookware

Nonstick pans are a total lifesaver when it comes to cooking. But using Dawn Powerwash on them is a bad idea.

Powerwash is a little too harsh for nonstick surfaces. It can wear down the nonstick coating over time, which could leave you with food sticking to your pan (and nobody wants that).

Plus, most nonstick cookware is made with specific care instructions to keep that coating in good shape.

Using something like Powerwash could void your warranty or cause it to wear out faster.

Just use warm water and a gentle sponge. Avoid anything too abrasive to make sure your nonstick pans stay, well, nonstick.

#6 Leather And Fabrics

You should not use Dawn Powerwash on leather and fabric upholstery either.

Leather, in particular, can dry out or crack if it’s exposed to harsh cleaning agents.

And while Powerwash might make a great job of removing grease, it doesn’t treat leather with the gentle care it needs. The soap can also soak into fabric, leaving behind a residue that’s tough to remove. Plus, it could even damage the fibers over time.

Fabrics aren’t immune either. Powerwash can cause colors to run or fade, and it might leave behind a residue.

For leather, use a conditioner or a cleaner made specifically for it. For fabrics, check the care label and stick to recommended cleaning methods.

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#7 Automotive Paint

This one might seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many people try to clean their car with Dawn Powerwash.

Automotive paint is delicate, and Powerwash is just too strong for it.

The harsh chemicals could strip away the protective layers of wax or clear coat, which helps keep your car looking shiny and fresh. Over time, this can lead to fading or even rusting.

Instead, grab a car-safe cleaner, specifically designed to clean without damaging paint.

You want your car to stay looking good, and that starts with the right products for the job.

#8 Electronics And Screens

Finally, don’t even think about using Dawn Powerwash on electronics or screens.

These devices have delicate surfaces that can easily be damaged by liquid, especially something as strong as Powerwash.

Spraying it directly on a screen or using it on your phone, tablet, or laptop could lead to water damage or leave streaks that are super hard to remove.

For electronics, stick to a microfiber cloth and a screen-safe cleaner. It’s simple, effective, and won’t risk damaging your devices.

Bottom Line

So there you have it - eight things you should never use Dawn Powerwash on.

As easy as it is to spray and wipe, it’s important to remember that some materials just aren’t built for it. So, keep the Powerwash for the right surfaces, and for everything else, use a gentler, more appropriate cleaner.

By doing so, you’ll keep your home looking great without causing any damage.

What NOT To Use Dawn Powerwash On (8 Things To Avoid)