Washing dishes by hand can be an effective and efficient way to clean them, but it's essential to do it correctly to avoid damaging them and to ensure they last longer. Here's the best way to wash dishes by hand:
Scrape off food residue: Before washing, scrape off any leftover food particles from the dishes into the trash or compost. This will prevent the sink from getting clogged and make the washing process easier.
Sort dishes by type: Group similar dishes together (e.g., plates, glasses, cutlery) to streamline the washing process.
Use warm water: Fill one side of the sink with warm, soapy water. Hot water helps to remove grease and grime effectively. The other side can be used for rinsing.
Use a mild dish soap: Choose a gentle dish soap that is not too harsh on your hands and is safe for your dishes.
Start with less soiled items: Begin by washing items that are less soiled, such as glasses and cutlery, and work your way up to more heavily soiled items like pans and pots.
Scrub gently: Use a soft sponge or dishcloth to scrub the dishes gently. Avoid using abrasive materials like steel wool on non-stick surfaces or delicate dishes, as they can cause scratches and damage.
Pay attention to crevices: Make sure to clean any crevices or hard-to-reach areas of dishes, especially in items like lids or utensils.
Rinse thoroughly: Rinse off all the soap residue thoroughly using clean, running water. Soap residue left on dishes can lead to an unpleasant taste and may cause health concerns.
Dry with care: Use a clean dish towel or let the dishes air dry on a clean dish rack. Avoid stacking wet dishes on top of each other for an extended period, as this can lead to mold growth or damage.
Now, regarding the potential damage or increased breakage of dishes when washing by hand, it mostly depends on the following factors:
Temperature: Exposing dishes to extreme temperature changes, such as placing hot dishes in cold water or vice versa, can cause them to crack or shatter. Avoid this by allowing hot dishes to cool down a bit before washing them.
Forceful scrubbing: Scrubbing dishes too vigorously or using abrasive materials can scratch and damage certain types of dishes, especially those with non-stick or delicate surfaces.
Glassware and delicate dishes: Items like glassware and delicate dishes are more prone to breakage, so handle them with care when washing and drying.
Quality of the dishes: High-quality dishes are generally more durable and resistant to damage than lower-quality ones. Investing in good quality kitchenware can help prolong their lifespan.
Overall, if you wash dishes by hand using the proper techniques and handle them with care, they should not be more prone to breakage over time compared to using a dishwasher. Dishwashers, when used correctly, can also be gentle on dishes and might be a more water-efficient option. However, improper loading of dishes in the dishwasher or using harsh detergents can lead to breakage as well.