There can be several reasons why people put dirty dishes in the sink even when they have an automatic dishwasher:
Convenience: It might be more convenient for some people to quickly place dirty dishes in the sink rather than taking the time to rinse or load them into the dishwasher immediately after use. This habit can lead to a pileup of dishes in the sink.
Partial loads: Some people prefer to wait until they have a larger number of dirty dishes before running the dishwasher to maximize its capacity and reduce water and energy usage. As a result, they temporarily store the dirty dishes in the sink until it's time to run the dishwasher.
Pre-rinsing or soaking: Certain types of stains or food particles might require pre-rinsing or soaking before placing the dishes in the dishwasher. People may leave the dishes in the sink to soak or rinse off excess food before loading them into the dishwasher later.
Dishwasher already running: If the dishwasher is already running, and a person has dirty dishes to clean, they may place them in the sink to deal with them later when the dishwasher cycle is complete.
Habit: Some individuals may have grown up with the habit of placing dishes in the sink, even if they have a dishwasher. Old habits can be challenging to break, leading to the continuation of placing dirty dishes in the sink.
Limited dishwasher space: In some cases, people may have limited dishwasher space or lack certain dishwasher features, like adjustable racks or specialized holders for specific items. This limitation might lead them to wash some items by hand or keep them in the sink.
Preference for handwashing: Some individuals may prefer handwashing certain delicate or sentimental items to ensure their proper care and longevity.
It's essential to remember that people have different habits and preferences when it comes to dishwashing routines. While some individuals may prefer to load their dishwasher immediately after use, others might opt for different approaches based on their lifestyle, the dishwasher's features, or their environmental concerns. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that dishes are cleaned efficiently, whether it's through the dishwasher or handwashing, to maintain a clean and hygienic kitchen environment.