Washing dishes with dish soap and water and then submerging them in a tub full of clean water is generally safe and effective for cleaning dishes. The clean water helps rinse off any remaining soap residue and ensures that the dishes are free from any cleaning agents.
However, it's important to note that the effectiveness of the cleaning process depends on several factors, such as the type and amount of soap used, the temperature of the water, and the thoroughness of rinsing. Here's a recommended approach for washing dishes using a dual-basin sink:
Fill one basin with hot, soapy water: Use the first basin to fill with hot water and add an appropriate amount of dish soap. Make sure the water is hot enough to effectively dissolve grease and food residues.
Scrub and wash the dishes: Take each dish, scrub it thoroughly using a sponge or brush, and remove any visible food particles or stains. Dip the dish into the soapy water as needed to apply more soap.
Rinse in the second basin: Once a dish is scrubbed, move it to the second basin, which should be filled with clean water. Rinse the dish under the running water or by submerging it and swishing it around to remove the soap.
Inspect for cleanliness: After rinsing, inspect each dish to ensure it is free from soap residue or food particles. If necessary, give it an additional rinse or wipe with a clean sponge or cloth.
Let dishes air dry or dry with a clean towel: After rinsing, you can either place the dishes in a dish rack to air dry or use a clean towel to dry them manually.
It's important to note that using clean running water for rinsing is generally more effective in removing soap residue compared to submerging the dishes in a tub of water. However, if you have limited access to running water or are conserving water, submerging the dishes in clean water can still provide satisfactory results if done diligently.
Remember to clean the tub thoroughly before using it for dishwashing to ensure it's free from any contaminants. Additionally, ensure that the water used for rinsing is clean and not already contaminated with food particles or soap residue from previous dishes.
By following these steps, you can effectively clean your dishes and minimize the risk of contamination or soap residue, ensuring they are safe to use for your next meal.