Dishwasher vs Hand Washing: Choosing the Best Clean for Your Kitchen
The age-old debate: to wash by hand or use a dishwasher? Whether you are a singles, a family, or just prefer certain dishes to be hand washed, this decision can depend on several factors including the type of dishes, how dirty they are, and personal preferences. Let’s explore the advantages and disadvantages of both methods to help you make an informed decision.
I Wish I Had a Dishwasher
Many people dream of having a dishwasher to simplify their kitchen cleaning routine. I’m one of them. The convenience and efficiency of a dishwasher are undeniable, especially for larger loads. Imagine scraping dishes, putting them in the dishwasher, and running it when it’s full. Any unclean items can be washed again with the next load. This is my ultimate goal, and it’s only a matter of time before I achieve it.
My Ideal Dishwasher Routine
To streamline my kitchen cleaning, I have devised a simple plan: scrape dishes, put them in the dishwasher, and wait for it to be full. Once full, I’ll run it. If anything isn’t clean, it can be washed again with the next load. With this routine, I can reduce my dishwashing time and water usage, making it a win-win situation.
Arguments Against the Dishwasher
Not everyone agrees with the convenience of a dishwasher. Some find it a waste of time and resources. For example, a person living with their partner states, “Hell to the NO! Why would I want to waste an extra 6 hours a week washing, rinsing, and drying dishes by hand using 80 more water in the process?” This sentiment is backed by statistics showing that hand washing uses more water than running a dishwasher. Additionally, they have found that their dishes are clean enough manually and don’t require another wash in the dishwasher.
Practicality of Dishes
They continue, "There are just two of us and we have plenty of plates, glasses, and silverware. Table forks are the most common item we use so we bought some cheap stainless forks for 36, and never run out. We try to scrape the dishes clean to avoid food accumulation in the dishwasher and disposal before placing them in the dishwasher. It runs about 3 times per week. Therefore, using a dishwasher for them seems unnecessary." They also mention that some items, which are used frequently, are washed by hand.
Love for the dishwasher
However, there are those who have fallen in love with their dishwasher. For them, a dishwasher is a lifesaver. One user states, “No, I do not, I love my dishwasher. When I got my first one, I quickly realized I had to buy a load more crockery so you can pop the dirty ones in during the day and still have plenty to use. Its very disappointing if we use more than will fit in the dishwasher and I have to get the rubber gloves out. Last thing I do at bedtime is set the dishwasher off. Our neighbors, however, who also have a fully functional dishwasher, wash all their dishes by hand and then put them in the dishwasher for another wash. Barmy or what?”
Cost and Storage Considerations
For this user, the dishwasher increases the variety of dishes they have. However, the need to manage the number of dishes fits into the dishwasher can be a drawback. This is a key consideration for many users. Another user adds, "When I got my first one, I quickly realized I had to buy a load more crockery so you can pop the dirty ones in during the day and still have plenty to use. Its very disappointing if we use more than will fit in the dishwasher and I have to get the rubber gloves out."
Hate for the Dishwasher
On the other end of the spectrum, there are those who absolutely do not like dishwashers. They argue that the dishwasher results in dishes piling up throughout the day, and it’s impossible to adequately stack a dishwasher until you have all the dishes you need to wash. This frustration often leads to hand washing as the preferred method. One user shares, “Yeah me. I hate the things. I’ve had 2 both left by previous property owners and I’ve ended up selling them both. Don’t get me wrong, if you’re constantly throwing large dinner parties I think they’re ace, but for day-to-day family life all it usually resulted in was dishes piling up throughout the day until there was enough to justify using it. I really hate dirty dishes hanging about all day it seriously does my head in. And it’s impossible to adequately stack a dishwasher until you’ve got all the dishes you need. So aye it’s hand washing all the way for me and my wrinkly, dried up, badly aged hands!”
In conclusion, the choice between doing dishes by hand or using a dishwasher comes down to personal preferences, the type of dishes, and the number of people you need to cater to. Whether you opt for the efficiency of a dishwasher or the satisfaction of hand washing, the key is to find what works best for your routine.