The "stuff" in the dishwasher can be either clean or dirty, depending on whether it has already gone through a dishwasher cycle or if it was recently loaded with dirty items.
Clean stuff: If the dishwasher has completed a full washing and drying cycle, the items inside should be considered clean. They have undergone the cleaning process and are now ready to be used or put away.
Dirty stuff: On the other hand, if the dishwasher has not been run or if it has only been partially loaded, the items inside are likely dirty and in need of cleaning. These items may have food residues, stains, or other debris on them, and they should not be used until they have been properly washed in the dishwasher.
To avoid confusion and cross-contamination, it's essential to establish a system for managing dishes in the dishwasher:
- Before loading the dishwasher, scrape off excess food and rinse off any large particles from the dishes.
- Load dirty items in the dishwasher and run a washing cycle to clean them thoroughly.
- Once the dishwasher cycle is complete, unload the clean items and store them appropriately for future use.
By following these practices, you can ensure that the "stuff" in the dishwasher remains organized, clean, and ready to be used for your next meal or occasion.