Washing dishes is a necessary chore for anyone who loves to eat. Whether you live alone or with a family, keeping your kitchen clean and tidy is important. However, if you're not careful, you may make mistakes that can lead to poor hygiene, damaged dishes, and wasted time. We'll discuss common mistakes to avoid when washing your dishes so that you can keep your kitchen clean and your dishes looking new.
Not Pre-Rinsing Your Dishes
One of the most common mistakes when washing dishes is not pre-rinsing them before putting them in the dishwasher. While it might seem like an extra step, pre-rinsing removes food particles and grease that can clog your dishwasher's filters and lead to poor cleaning performance. To avoid this problem, take a few extra seconds to rinse your dishes with warm water before putting them in the dishwasher.
Using Too Much Detergent
Another pitfall is using too much detergent when washing your dishes. This can make your dishes look cloudy and damage your dishwasher. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on how much detergent to use, and avoid overfilling the detergent cup. Using too much detergent doesn't make your dishes any cleaner and is a waste of money. If you feel like your dishwasher isn't cleaning properly, rather than adding more detergent, use some troubleshooting tips for dishwashers that aren't cleaning.
Not Checking Your Dishwashing Load
Poor placement of dishes in the dishwasher can also cause problems. When you overload your dishwasher with dishes, water and detergent can't reach all surfaces of the dishes, leaving some of them dirty. To maximize the capacity of your dishwasher, use the correct loading pattern suggested by the manufacturer. Check your owner's manual or read online guides for the most effective way to load your dishwasher so that you get a perfect wash every time.
Using Hot Water on Delicate Dishes
Hot water can warp or crack delicate crystal and fine china dishes. For these types of dishes, you should wash them by hand using lukewarm water and mild dish soap. Only use the dishwasher for tough and sturdy items, such as pots, pans, and plates.
Not Using the Right Cleaning Tools
Lastly, using the wrong cleaning tools can scratch, chip, or damage your dishes or dishwasher. Use a mild dish soap and a soft sponge or dishcloth to clean your dishes. Avoid using abrasive materials such as steel wool or scouring pads, which can scratch and damage your dishes and leave behind tiny metal particles embedded in the surface, causing further damage during washing.
Now that you know what mistakes to avoid when washing your dishes, you can work to keep your dishes looking new and extend the life of your dishwasher. Remember to follow best practices and use the right tools for the job. A little care and attention can go a long way when washing your dishes.
