Pre-washing dishes before putting them in the dishwasher can actually cause you to end up with dirtier dishes. That’s not some fake news put out there by lazy people who want to save a few steps, but actual advice from experts.
Pre-rinsing the dishes can fool the dishwasher’s turbidity sensor. The turbidity sensor determines how dirty the dishes are by the number of particles suspended in the water. If it doesn’t see any particles, it might think your dishes are already clean and dial back on the cleaning power.
Instead of pre-washing dishes, just scrape off large pieces of food and allow your dishwasher to do its job.
You Don’t Save Water with Handwashing
You’ll also save on water and detergent by leaving the heavy cleaning to your dishwasher.
If you think handwashing instead of using the dishwasher saves on your water bill, you’re in for a surprise. Studies show that while a full dishwasher typically uses about 3.5 gallons of water to clean the dishes, handwashing uses an average of 26 gallons to clean the same amount of dishes.
Less Soap Means Cleaner Dishes
More detergent does not mean cleaner dishes. In fact, you’re probably using too much. Too much soap can result in filmy glasses and even clog your drain hose with excess soap. Definitely don’t use more detergent than the manufacturer calls for.
In fact, you might even experiment with gradually cutting back on to about half of the suggested amount to find out the perfect amount to keep your dishes spotless.
If your dishwasher isn’t cleaning as well as it used to, Appliance Center’s academy-trained professionals are here to help. If it’s time for a new model, we have Ohio’s largest selection of in-stock furniture, mattresses, and appliances and our experts will be glad to help you find the perfect model. Visit our two superstores or shop dishwashers online by clicking here.