Question

How can I clean my moldy dishes and kitchenware? It is so gross. I am feeling bad for myself but I haven't washed my dishes for two months. I don't have a dishwasher and I find it really boring. I occasionally wash one or two plates only to eat.

Answer 1

Cleaning moldy dishes and kitchenware can indeed be an unpleasant task, but it's important to address the issue for both hygiene and safety reasons. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you clean your moldy dishes and kitchenware effectively:

1. Preparation:

   • Put on a pair of rubber gloves to protect your hands.
   • Open windows or ensure proper ventilation in the area to avoid inhaling mold spores.

2. Sorting and Discarding:

   • Start by sorting through your dishes and kitchenware. Discard any items that are heavily contaminated with mold or have porous surfaces that may be difficult to clean thoroughly (e.g., wooden cutting boards).
   • Focus on salvaging items that are dishwasher-safe, made of glass, metal, or other non-porous materials.

3. Scrubbing and Soaking:

   • Fill your sink or a basin with hot water and add a generous amount of dishwashing liquid or a mild detergent.
   • Submerge the moldy dishes and kitchenware in the soapy water and let them soak for a few minutes.
   • Using a scrub brush or sponge, scrub the items thoroughly, paying attention to all surfaces, crevices, and utensil handles.
   • For stubborn mold stains, you can make a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the affected areas. Let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing again.

4. Rinse and Inspect:

   • Rinse each item under hot running water to remove soap residue and any remaining mold particles.
   • Inspect the dishes and kitchenware for any signs of remaining mold. If you still notice mold after cleaning, repeat the scrubbing process or consider discarding heavily affected items.

5. Sanitizing:

   • Fill a sink or basin with a mixture of one part bleach to ten parts water.
   • Submerge the cleaned dishes and kitchenware in the bleach solution and let them soak for about 10 minutes. This step helps kill any remaining mold spores.
   • Rinse the items thoroughly with hot water to remove any bleach residue.

6. Drying and Storage:

   • Place the cleaned dishes and kitchenware on a dish rack or towel to air dry completely.
   • Once dry, ensure proper storage to prevent future mold growth. Store dishes in clean, dry cabinets or drawers.

Remember, it's essential to maintain regular cleaning habits to prevent the buildup of mold and ensure a healthy kitchen environment.