Washing dishes with hot water can be more effective in reducing bacteria compared to using cold or cool water. Here's why:
Temperature: Hot water, generally defined as water above 120°F (49°C), can help kill or inhibit the growth of many types of bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. On the other hand, cold or cool water doesn't have the same germ-killing properties, and some bacteria can survive and even thrive in colder conditions.
Grease and Oils: Hot water can help dissolve and remove grease and oils from dishes more effectively than cold water. Grease and oils can trap bacteria and other contaminants, so removing them thoroughly is essential for proper dishwashing.
Detergent Efficiency: Most dishwashing detergents are formulated to work best with hot water. Hot water helps activate the cleaning agents in the detergent, allowing it to break down and remove food particles, stains, and bacteria from the dishes more efficiently.
Speed: Washing dishes with hot water can often speed up the cleaning process as it aids in breaking down food residues, making it easier to remove them from the dishes.
While washing dishes with hot water is generally more effective in reducing bacteria, it's important to remember that simply using hot water is not enough to ensure proper sanitation. Proper dishwashing also involves using an effective detergent, scrubbing the dishes thoroughly, and allowing them to dry completely before use.
If you don't have access to hot water, you can still wash dishes with cold or cool water, but you may need to take extra precautions to ensure proper sanitation. You could use an antibacterial dish soap, scrub more vigorously, or even use a disinfectant solution to soak dishes before washing. However, using hot water (if available and safe) remains the best option for effective dishwashing and sanitation.