Dirty dishes that have been left unwashed for an extended period, such as two years, can be quite challenging to clean. However, in most cases, they should still be cleanable with the appropriate cleaning methods. Here are some steps you can take to attempt cleaning them:
Pre-soak: Fill a sink or large container with warm water and add dish soap. Submerge the dishes and allow them to soak for a few hours or overnight. This will help to loosen any dried-on food and make cleaning easier.
Scrubbing: After soaking, use a scrub brush or sponge to scrub the dishes thoroughly. Pay attention to any areas with stubborn stains or residue. Use hot water and dish soap to aid in the cleaning process.
Stubborn stains or baked-on food: For particularly stubborn stains or dried-on food, you can try using a mixture of baking soda and water to create a paste. Apply the paste to the affected areas, let it sit for a while, and then scrub again. Alternatively, you can use white vinegar or lemon juice to tackle tough stains.
Rinse and inspect: Once you have scrubbed the dishes, rinse them thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue. Inspect each dish carefully to ensure they are clean and free from any remaining debris or stains.
Sanitization: To ensure the dishes are safe to use, you should sanitize them after cleaning. You can do this by either running them through a dishwasher on a high-temperature setting or by soaking them in a mixture of water and bleach. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the proper dilution ratio and soaking time.
While these steps can help you clean the dishes, it's worth noting that there may be instances where the dirt and stains have become too ingrained or the dishes have been damaged over time. In such cases, it might be safer and more hygienic to dispose of the dishes and replace them.
Remember, it's essential to maintain regular dishwashing habits to prevent the buildup of bacteria and ensure proper hygiene in the future.