While it’s hardly a fan-favorite chore, taking care when washing your dishes is essential to ensure they get the deepest clean possible. Giving kitchenware a quick rinse and calling it a day can leave behind unwanted odors, bacteria, and food residue that makes the items unsanitary to use. Of course, everyone wants to believe their dishes are getting a thorough cleaning, but there are a few dishwashing mistakes many people make when completing this household task. Whether you’re hand-washing or using a dishwasher, be sure to avoid what experts say are the most common dishwashing pitfalls.
Use a Dirty Sponge
Working with a clean sponge is essential when washing dishes by hand. “Dirty sponges can harbor bacteria and bad odors, so if not properly cleaned, it could spread bacteria and odors to dishes,” says Bree Lemmen, kitchen brand manager for Whirlpool. “It’s best to clean your sponges every couple of days and replace it altogether every one to two weeks.”
I’ve noticed that sponges can get grimy faster than you’d think, especially if you’re tackling greasy pots or pans. To keep things sanitary, I like to toss my sponge in the dishwasher’s top rack every few days—it’s a quick way to kill off bacteria without much effort. Research shows that kitchen sponges can harbor up to 54 billion bacteria per cubic centimeter, so regular cleaning is a must. For an extra tip, try soaking your sponge in a vinegar-water mix (1:1 ratio) for a few minutes before rinsing. It’s a cheap, effective way to keep things fresh and avoid spreading germs to your dishes.
Pre-Rinse Dishes Before Using the Dishwasher
Believe it or not, there’s no need to rinse your dishes before putting them in the dishwasher. “Dishwasher detergent is designed to target any leftover food particles on dishes, so cleaning dishes beforehand can actually inhibit the effectiveness of the detergent,” says Lemmen.
I used to be guilty of pre-rinsing every plate, thinking it’d help the dishwasher do its job. Turns out, I was just wasting water! Modern dishwashers are built to handle food scraps, and detergents work best when there’s something to break down. According to the EPA, pre-rinsing can waste up to 6,000 gallons of water per year in a typical household. If you’re worried about chunks of food, just scrape them into the trash or compost bin. Save yourself the effort and let the machine do what it’s designed for.
Use Too Much Soap
Using a lot of soap when washing dishes doesn’t equate to cleanliness. “Using too much soap not only wastes products but can leave a film or residue on dishes,” says Kathy Cohoon, the director of franchise operations at Two Maids. “With most brands and formulas, you only need a few drops for a load of dishes. Overuse of dish soap usually won’t damage dishes but will cause more work as you’ll wind up having to clean off residue.”
I’ve definitely overdone it with the soap before, thinking more bubbles meant cleaner dishes. Big mistake—my glasses ended up with a weird filmy coating that took extra rinsing to remove. To avoid this, I now stick to about a teaspoon of dish soap for a full sink, which is plenty for most loads. If you’re curious about costs, a typical bottle of dish soap lasts way longer when you’re not overpouring—potentially saving you a few bucks a month. For tough grease, try adding a splash of white vinegar to the water instead of extra soap; it cuts through oil like a charm.
Clean Dishes in a Dirty Sink
Washing dishes in a dirty sink can create more work and leave clean dishes subject to cross-contamination and bacteria, says Cohoon. “It’s best to wash dishes in a clean area for the best results and the most sanitary dishes,” she adds. The same rule applies to washing dishes in a dirty dishwasher. “Regular cleaning of your dishwasher prevents smells, as well as detergent and food debris build-up that can impact the dishwasher’s cleaning results over time,” says Lemmen.
I learned this the hard way when I washed dishes in a sink that hadn’t been scrubbed in a while—my “clean” plates had a faint greasy feel. Now, I give my sink a quick wipe-down with a baking soda paste before washing; it takes two minutes and keeps things spotless. Studies suggest that kitchen sinks can be dirtier than bathroom surfaces, so a clean sink is non-negotiable. For dishwashers, running an empty cycle with a cup of vinegar on the top rack every month keeps it fresh and free of buildup, saving you from funky smells or spotty dishes.
Not Use the Correct Water Temperature
Choosing the right water temperature when washing dishes doesn’t just ensure they’re cleaned properly, but it’s also important for safety reasons. “Using water that is too hot can hurt your hands and even cause burns,” says Cohoon. “Meanwhile, using water that is too cold may not cut through grime as easily, and you may need to use more elbow grease to get things sparkling.” If washing dishes in a dishwasher, the ideal water temperature is 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
I’ve burned my hands a couple of times trying to power through with scalding water—definitely not worth it! For hand-washing, I aim for warm water that’s comfortable but still hot enough to tackle grease, around 110°F. A kitchen thermometer can help if you’re unsure, but honestly, it’s about what feels right. For dishwashers, check your water heater settings to ensure it’s hitting that 120°F sweet spot; anything lower might leave residue, while hotter could damage delicate items. This small tweak can make a big difference in getting sparkling results without extra scrubbing.
Use the Wrong Soap
Avoid using dishwashing detergent when hand-washing dishes and vice versa. “Soaps and cleaning solutions are specifically formulated for their own tasks, so using dish detergent while hand-washing can damage both skin and dishes as formulas are more concentrated and differently activated,” says Cohoon. “Using dish soap in your machine may also damage the unit and cause a sudsy mess.”
I once tried using hand dish soap in my dishwasher, thinking it’d be fine—big mistake! The kitchen looked like a bubble bath gone wrong. Dishwasher detergents are designed to work with the machine’s mechanics, while hand-washing soaps are gentler on skin but foam too much for machines. If you’re in a pinch, it’s better to hand-wash with a tiny bit of dishwasher detergent diluted in water than to risk a mess in the machine. Always check labels to avoid costly repairs or skin irritation from harsh chemicals.
Store Dishes Before Drying Them
Always ensure your dishes are dry before putting them away. “When there’s still moisture on dishes, make sure to wipe them down before putting them away,” says Cohoon. “Putting damp dishes in cabinets or pantries can be a recipe for mildew and may even damage the interior of your cabinet.”
I used to stack damp plates in the cupboard to save time, only to find a musty smell later—gross! Now, I always air-dry on a rack or give them a quick towel wipe. A study from the University of Arizona found that damp environments in cabinets can promote mold growth, which isn’t just bad for dishes but can ruin wood finishes too. If you’re short on counter space, a foldable drying rack is a game-changer for keeping things organized and mold-free.
Overload Your Dishwasher
Don’t cram your dishes into your dishwasher to fit it all into one cycle. “Overcrowding the dishwasher can impact the cleanliness of your dishes and damage the appliance,” says Lemmen. “When dishes are too close or improperly loaded, including silverware nestling together, they will not be properly cleaned since spray and detergent cannot reach each surface. Sprayer arms may also get trapped or stuck when too many dishes are loaded at once.”
I’ve been tempted to stuff the dishwasher to avoid running it twice, but it’s not worth the spotty results. Proper loading is key—think of it like a puzzle where every piece needs space. Experts suggest leaving at least a finger’s width between dishes for water and detergent to circulate. If you’re dealing with a big load, split it into two cycles; it’s better than re-washing everything. Plus, an overloaded dishwasher can strain the motor, potentially shortening its lifespan and costing you more in repairs.
Dishwash Items That Should Be Hand-Washed
Knowing which items can and cannot be put in the dishwasher will save you from potential mishaps. “Certain materials and delicate items, like wood, crystal, and certain pots and pans, should not be washed in the dishwasher because they may get damaged by the detergent or high heat,” says Lemmen.
I ruined a favorite wooden cutting board by tossing it in the dishwasher once—cracked it right down the middle. Items like cast iron, fine china, or anything with gold trim need gentle hand-washing to stay in top shape. Check manufacturer labels if you’re unsure; most will clearly state “hand-wash only.” For delicate glassware, I soak in warm soapy water and use a soft sponge to avoid scratches. It’s a bit of extra work, but it saves you from replacing pricey kitchenware.
Let Dishes Pile Up in the Sink
Staying on top of your dishes saves you time in the long run and keeps your kitchen looking and smelling its best. “Letting dishes or food messes pile up in the sink can cause unwanted smells in the kitchen and potentially have an impact on your drain,” says Cohoon.
I’ve had days where the sink turned into a dish mountain, and it’s not just an eyesore—it starts to stink! A quick rinse and load after meals keeps things manageable. Clogged drains from food scraps can lead to plumbing issues, which can cost $150-$500 to fix, depending on the severity. If you’re short on time, at least soak dishes in soapy water to prevent food from hardening. It’s a small habit that keeps your kitchen fresh and saves you from a bigger cleanup later.
