To clean dishes effectively by hand, follow these steps:
Scrape off food residues: Before washing, scrape off any large food particles from your dishes using a spatula or a brush. This helps prevent clogging your sink and makes the cleaning process easier.
Pre-soak if necessary: For dishes with tough stains or dried-on food, consider pre-soaking them in warm water and a small amount of dish soap. This helps loosen the debris and makes it easier to clean later.
Fill the sink or basin: Fill your sink or a basin with warm water. The water should be comfortably hot but not scalding.
Add dish soap: Add a small amount of dish soap to the water. Use the recommended amount mentioned on the soap's packaging. Avoid using excessive soap as it can leave residues on your dishes.
Start with glassware and delicate items: Begin by washing delicate items, such as glassware and stemware, first. This way, you minimize the risk of accidental breakage while your hands are still fresh.
Wash from cleanest to dirtiest: Wash your dishes in order of cleanliness, starting with glasses, then cutlery, plates, bowls, and finally, pots and pans. This prevents cross-contamination and keeps your dishwater cleaner for longer.
Use a sponge or dishcloth: Wet a sponge or dishcloth and apply a small amount of dish soap to it. Use the sponge or dishcloth to scrub the dishes, paying attention to areas with stubborn food residues. For nonstick cookware, use non-abrasive materials to avoid damaging the surface.
Rinse thoroughly: After scrubbing each dish, rinse it under running water to remove the soap and food residues. Make sure there are no slippery or soapy residues left on the dishes.
Air dry or towel dry: You can either allow your dishes to air dry in a dish rack or use a clean dish towel to dry them. If using a towel, ensure it's clean and free of lint.
Clean the sink: Once you've finished washing your dishes, give your sink a quick clean to remove any remaining food particles or soap residue.
Remember to take breaks if needed, especially if you have a large number of dishes to wash. It's also a good idea to wear gloves to protect your hands from hot water and harsh dish soap if you have sensitive skin.