Health & Life

8 Toxic Dishwashing Mistakes You’re Probably Making

8 Dishwashing Mistakes That Double the Bacteria Most Homemakers Make

Administrator

20 April, 2024

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Mistakes You Make While Washing Dishes That Double the Number of Bacteria

Here are 8 mistakes you make while washing dishes that double the number of bacteria, which many housewives make.

1. Scrubbing All the Chopsticks Together
2. Stacking Dirty Dishes
3. Putting Away Dishes When They Are Not Dry
4. Pouring Dishwashing Liquid Directly onto Dirty Dishes
5. Not Disinfecting Dishes
6. Not Replacing the Dish Sponge Often
7. Overusing Cleaning Products
8. Using Cutlery for Many Years

1. Scrubbing All the Chopsticks Together

To wash chopsticks, many people have the habit of scrubbing all the chopsticks together. This is a wrong way to wash chopsticks. Although it is quick, it will damage the protective layer on the outside of the chopsticks, inadvertently creating small cracks. This is a favorable environment for microorganisms to grow.

The correct way to wash chopsticks is to use a dish sponge to wash each chopstick thoroughly to remove grease, rinse with clean water to remove all soap, and then dry or sun-dry.

2. Stacking Dirty Dishes

After eating, many people have the habit of not washing immediately but soaking all the dishes in the basin.

1-4 hours after eating is the time for the bacteria to enter the dishes. From 8-18 hours, the bacteria start to grow rapidly. Stacking dirty dishes is an act of nourishing bacteria, increasing the risk of cross-infection and making it more difficult to clean.

Wash dishes immediately after eating. Wash dishes without grease first, then wash dishes with grease. Wash dishes containing cooked food first, and then wash dishes containing raw meat.

3. Putting Away Dishes When They Are Not Dry

Do not dry before putting away chopsticks. This will create a humid environment that helps bacteria and mold grow and produce a serious carcinogen called aflatoxin.

Therefore, after washing chopsticks, you should dry them in the sun, then store them in a dry place. In addition, you should choose a chopstick holder with holes that allow air and water to circulate.

4. Pouring Dishwashing Liquid Directly onto Dirty Dishes

If the detergent is poured directly onto the dishes, it will still stick to the dishes if not washed thoroughly. Then, it enters the body through the food and drink, which is harmful to health.

To wash dishes cleanly, save water, and be safe, dilute the detergent with a little water and use this mixture to wash the dishes.

5. Not Disinfecting Dishes

No matter how clean the dishes are, it is impossible to wash away all the bacteria. Therefore, don’t forget to disinfect the dishes regularly. You can use a dish dryer to sterilize dishes at high temperatures or soak dishes in boiling water for about 3 to 5 minutes.

6. Not Replacing the Dish Sponge Often

There are about 10 million bacteria per square inch in a dish sponge, which is more than in a toilet bowl. Therefore, after washing the dishes, the sponge must also be dried thoroughly and replaced frequently.

7. Overusing Cleaning Products

If possible, use natural detergents such as rice water, salt, or lemon peels to clean dishes. If using dishwashing liquid, always remember to rinse the dishes many times under running water.

8. Using Cutlery for Many Years

Wooden chopsticks and cutting boards are vulnerable to mold, insects, and scratches. This is where bacteria accumulate, grow, and multiply. Therefore, if you see any spots, cracks, or mold on chopsticks or cutting boards, you need to replace them.

Frequently asked questions

Scrubbing all your chopsticks together can damage the protective layer on the outside of the chopsticks, creating small cracks that are favorable for microorganism growth. Instead, use a dish sponge to thoroughly wash each chopstick, removing any grease, and then rinse with clean water to ensure all soap is gone before drying.

Stacking dirty dishes provides a breeding ground for bacteria, increasing the risk of cross-infection. It’s best to wash dishes immediately after use, starting with grease-free items and then moving on to greasier ones. Always wash dishes containing cooked food before those that held raw meat.

Putting away dishes that aren’t completely dry creates a humid environment, which is ideal for bacteria and mold growth. This can produce a dangerous carcinogen called aflatoxin. Always ensure your dishes are sun-dried and stored in a dry place. Using a chopstick holder with holes allows for better air and water circulation.

Avoid pouring dishwashing liquid directly onto dirty dishes as it can be difficult to rinse off thoroughly. Instead, dilute the detergent with water and use this mixture to wash your dishes. Also, remember to disinfect your dishes regularly using a dish dryer or by soaking them in boiling water for a few minutes to kill any remaining bacteria.

Dish sponges can harbor an incredibly high number of bacteria, even more than a toilet bowl! It’s important to replace your sponge frequently and ensure it’s thoroughly dried after each use to minimize bacterial growth.

You can opt for natural detergents like rice water, salt, or lemon peels to clean your dishes. If using dishwashing liquid, be sure to give your dishes a thorough rinse under running water to avoid any chemical residue.

Wooden chopsticks and cutting boards are susceptible to mold, insects, and scratches, which provide hiding places for bacteria. If you notice any spots, cracks, or mold on your cutlery, it’s time to replace them to ensure a safe and hygienic dining experience.