Modern life is not always easy, and the proof can be found in a kitchen without the convenience of a dishwasher. Many homes today have them, but there are still a few lacking this essential appliance. Worse of all is when the dishwasher dies, and it could take a week or two before a new one will be installed. Until the installation occurs, washing dishes by hand will be a reality. For those who want to get it done in a timely manner while getting all the dishes sparkling clean, here are a few tips to help make it easier.
Scrape the plates
Before any soap and water get near those dishes, it is important to scrape the plates thoroughly. Removing any excess food means less work when washing, and it can show up plates that may need to be soaked or require extra scrubbing. It is a step that many may believe is not necessary when there are only a few crumbs, but those crumbs can make the job more difficult. It only takes a minute or two, and then it is on to the next step that can make washing those dishes by hand easier.
Hot sudsy water
There are those who believe that warm water with some dish soap is good enough, but the fact is that hot sudsy water will make the process of cleaning more efficient. Many people avoid very hot water because they feel their skin is burning, but a set of rubber gloves can make the process more tolerable. Even a few degrees hotter than the usual could help break down the grease and make the food easier to scrub off, so it is an investment in ease to get the job done.
Let them soak
There are times when sauces and foods can stick to the dishes, and there is no shame in finding it difficult to get dishes sparkling. When this is the situation, it can pay to put the dishes in the hot sudsy water to let them soak. The time those dishes spend in their hot bath will break down the grease and sugary sauces, and it will make them easier to clean.
Brushes, sponges or cloths
Every dishwasher has their own preference, but there are often reasons for their choices. For those who want an all-in-one solution, sponges with a scrubby side are usually the best choice. Keeping them clean means boiling them in hot water or microwaving them to get rid of bacteria, but they can be a good choice. Brushes that will not scratch plastic dishes are a good choice, and cloths that can be tossed in the washing machine are also good for getting plates clean without scratching or damage. Ensuring they get their own regular bathing routine will keep them fresh and ready to do the work.
The best order for washing
The old-fashioned rule of washing dishes used to be that any drinking glasses were washed first. This was followed by side plates, then large plates and cutlery. After those were done, then the serving plates came next. The pots and pans were always washed last. It would seem that this rule of them is still the right order today, and it should be taken into consideration when cleaning those dishes in the sink. Drinking glasses and mugs need to be done before anything with sauces or grease goes into the water. Plates and cutlery have touched the same foods, so they should be done next. The serving dishes may need time to soak, and they could require additional time to be scrubbed clean. Pots and pans may also need soaking time, and that is one of the reasons they are last on the list.
Rinsing and drying
Hot water is recommended for rinsing, and the reason is that it helps ensure germs are washed away and do not return. For those who have a large collection of kitchen towels, let them remain in their folded state. Modern hygiene requirements have declared that letting the air dry those dishes is a far more sanitary method than using a dish towel to dry them, so go and relax after the dishes are washed and rinsed.