Soaking dishes before washing them can provide several benefits compared to not soaking them:
Loosening food particles: Soaking dishes in warm water and dishwashing liquid helps to loosen and soften dried or stuck-on food particles. This makes it easier to remove the debris during the washing process.
Easier cleaning: Soaking can reduce the amount of scrubbing required to clean dishes. The water and detergent combination helps to break down and dissolve grease, grime, and food residue, allowing for more effortless cleaning.
Time-saving: Soaking dishes can save time in the long run. By allowing the dishes to soak, you give the detergent time to penetrate and loosen the dirt, which means less effort is required during the actual washing process.
Preventing dried-on residue: When dishes with stubborn food particles are left to sit without soaking, the residue can dry and harden, making it more challenging to remove later. Soaking helps prevent the food from hardening, making it easier to clean the dishes thoroughly.
Hygiene: Soaking dishes can help eliminate bacteria and other germs that may be present on dirty dishes. The warm water and detergent combination create an environment that can effectively sanitize the dishes, reducing the risk of cross-contamination during washing.
While soaking dishes can be beneficial, it's important not to let dishes sit in the soaking water for too long, as it can lead to bacterial growth or unpleasant odors. It's generally recommended to soak dishes for a maximum of 30 minutes before washing them.