Hi Dish washing liquid or powder has bleach in it. It will dry out the plastic the hoops are made of and they will eventually break. Suzanne

Good question.

Not sure if is safe, but I soak mine in plain water. Just the top hoop, not the screws. I rub with my fingers and the gook rolls up to be removed. I find it works better than the "stuff" I bought for that purpose. I don't allow to stay longer than the time is takes to soften for removal. Not a recommendation, just what I do.

Soap for the dish washer machine is very harsh, it will sometimes even etch glassware. I'd be afraid of what it would do to the plastic of the hoop. What kind of gook do y'all get on your hoops that they need cleaning? I just wipe mine with a damp paper towel once in a while. I never never use 505 or any type of spray near the hoops. If I have to use that, I take the material out into the garage, because I can't stand the fumes anyway. Interesting question, will like to see the answers. Hugs, Marji

What a interesting question. If I was going to wash my hoops it would be in a much less harsh soap like a bar of hand soap. Plus a quick wipe and not a long wash. Look forward to others replies

I have heard some people use baby wipes

I never even thought of that. I guess I haven't embroidered enough to accumelate gook.

Very interesting question. I always clean all my machines as well as my computer with a clean rag and methylated spirits. This will do just as well for the hoops. I think a little bit of white vinegar with a little water in it will also work because it work wonders on carpets. Please never ever put your hoops in the dishwasher. Hope this will help a bit. Annatjie

Thank you for all your replies. I was not thinking of a dishwasher. I was talking about the liquid one uses to wash dishes manually. Sorry I worded my question wrong.