It's generally a good idea to wash dishes as soon as possible after cooking, or at least start the cleaning process right after you finish using them. Here are a few reasons why:
Easier cleaning: Fresh food residue is generally easier to remove than dried-on or hardened stains, so it can save you time and effort to clean the dishes promptly.
Hygiene: Leaving dirty dishes around can attract pests and bacteria, leading to potential hygiene issues in your kitchen.
More space: Washing dishes right away clears up space in your kitchen and makes it easier to move around and continue with other tasks.
Avoiding odors: Certain foods can leave strong odors on dishes if left uncleaned for an extended period.
Dish damage prevention: Some food residues, particularly acidic or sugary substances, can cause damage to dishes if left on them for too long.
Of course, there may be situations where you're unable to wash dishes immediately due to other commitments or time constraints. In such cases, it's essential to at least scrape off any leftover food and soak the dishes to prevent food from sticking and hardening, making cleaning more manageable later on. Using a dishwasher can also be a convenient option if you have one available.
Ultimately, the goal is to maintain a clean and organized kitchen, and washing dishes promptly after cooking can contribute to that objective.