Whether you should dry dishes before putting them away depends on a few factors, including the type of dishes, the material they are made of, and personal preferences. Here are some considerations to help you decide:
Material of the dishes: If your dishes are made of materials that are sensitive to moisture or prone to water spots, it's a good idea to dry them before storing. For example, some glassware, delicate china, or silverware can develop water spots if left to air dry.
Hygiene concerns: Drying dishes before storing them can help prevent the growth of bacteria or mold that might occur in a moist environment. If you live in a humid climate, it's especially important to ensure dishes are thoroughly dry before putting them away.
Time and convenience: Drying dishes by hand takes time and effort. If you prefer to save time and don't mind the possibility of water spots, you might opt for air-drying.
Drying methods: If you have a dishwasher with a heated drying cycle or a dish rack with good ventilation, air-drying might be sufficient. However, if your dishes tend to retain water after air-drying, it's better to use a clean dish towel to dry them manually.
Space considerations: Some people prefer to dry dishes before storing them to ensure the storage area remains dry and clean. If you have limited space or the storage area is enclosed, this might be a more critical consideration.
In summary, it's generally a good practice to dry dishes before putting them away, especially if they are made of sensitive materials or if you are concerned about hygiene. However, if you have a reliable air-drying method and don't mind occasional water spots, it's acceptable to let dishes air dry in certain situations.