It is generally better to wash your dishes before putting them away. Here's why:
Hygiene and food safety: Washing dishes before storing them helps ensure that no food residue or grease is left on the dishes. If dishes are stored with leftover food particles, it can attract pests and bacteria, leading to hygiene and food safety concerns.
Preventing stains and odors: Storing dirty dishes can lead to stubborn stains and unpleasant odors, especially if the food residues are left to dry and adhere to the surfaces over time.
Easier to clean later: Fresh food residues are generally easier to clean than dried or stuck-on residues. By washing dishes right after using them, you can save time and effort during the cleaning process.
Avoiding cross-contamination: If you stack dirty dishes on top of each other before washing, there is a risk of cross-contamination, where bacteria from one dish can transfer to another, potentially causing foodborne illnesses.
Maintaining a tidy kitchen: Storing clean and dry dishes ensures that your kitchen stays organized and clutter-free, making meal preparation and cleanup more efficient.
Here's a basic dishwashing routine to follow:
After using dishes, scrape off any excess food into the trash or compost bin.
Rinse the dishes with warm water to remove any remaining food residues.
Wash the dishes with hot, soapy water using a sponge or dishcloth, making sure to scrub all surfaces thoroughly.
Rinse the dishes with hot water to remove any soap residue.
Let the dishes air dry or dry them with a clean dish towel.
Once dry, store the dishes in their respective cabinets or drawers.
By following this routine, you can maintain a clean and organized kitchen while also ensuring food safety and preventing unpleasant odors or stains on your dishes.