Scraping food off the plates before putting them in the dishwasher is recommended for a few reasons:
Efficient cleaning: Dishwashers are designed to clean dishes, glasses, and utensils by spraying water and detergent onto them. If you leave large amounts of food residue on the plates, the dishwasher's cleaning process may not be as effective. Scraping off excess food ensures that the dishwasher can focus on removing stains, grease, and other stubborn residues.
Preventing clogs and blockages: Dishwashers have filters and drainage systems to remove food particles and debris during the wash cycle. However, if you regularly load heavily soiled dishes without scraping off excess food, it can lead to clogs and blockages in the dishwasher's drain or filter. This can impair the dishwasher's performance and may require additional cleaning or maintenance.
Avoiding unpleasant odors: When food particles are left on the dishes for an extended period, they can decompose and cause unpleasant odors inside the dishwasher. These odors can transfer to your clean dishes and glassware, making them less appealing. Scraping off food before loading the dishwasher helps minimize the potential for lingering smells.
Protecting dishwasher components: Food particles can get trapped in various parts of the dishwasher, such as spray arms, nozzles, and filters. Over time, this buildup can affect the dishwasher's performance and even cause damage to these components. By removing excess food, you can help maintain the longevity and efficiency of your dishwasher.
While it's important to scrape off food, modern dishwashers are generally capable of handling small bits of food that may remain on the dishes after scraping. However, it's still recommended to remove larger chunks or excessive residue to ensure optimal cleaning and to prevent any potential issues.