Washing Up the Dishes: Handwashing & Dishwasher Basics

A clear, practical guide to what must be washed by hand, how to hand wash efficiently, and how to use a dishwasher without drama.

Table of Contents
☕ Introduction
☕ Items to Wash by Hand
☕ Handwashing: Materials & Steps
☕ Dishwasher: Steps & Maintenance
☕ Bibliography

Introduction

Washing up the dishes effectively keeps your kitchen running smoothly and your cookware in good nick. Some items are never suited to dishwashers, while others are ideal for a quick machine cycle. Below is a concise, no-nonsense reference you can stick to the fridge (figuratively speaking).

Items to Wash by Hand

1. Non-dishwasher safe materials: Always check the manufacturer’s instructions. Items made of wood, bronze, cast iron, copper, aluminium, crystal, delicate china, and some plastics may not be dishwasher safe.
2. Sharp knives: High-quality knives can dull due to heat, detergents, and high-pressure jets. Hand wash to prolong their lifespan.
3. Nonstick cookware: Machine cycles can damage coatings. Hand wash recommended.
4. Glasses with metallic accents: Metallic decor can fade or be damaged in the dishwasher.
5. Flatware with wooden or bone handles: Heat and moisture can crack or warp handles.
6. Plastics not labelled “dishwasher safe”: Unlabelled plastics can melt or deform in high-temp cycles.
7. Electrical appliances: Never put blenders, toasters, or coffee makers in the dishwasher.
8. Delicate china & hand-painted dishes: Designs may fade; pieces may chip. Hand wash only.
9. Cast iron cookware: Dishwashers strip seasoning and can cause rust. Hand wash and re-season.
10. Items with adhesives or glued parts: Glues may fail during hot cycles.
11. Aluminium cookware: Can react with detergents and discolour over time.
12. Wooden cutting boards: Frequent machine cycles can crack or split boards. Hand wash and treat with mineral oil.

Rule of thumb: When in doubt, hand wash to avoid damage.

Handwashing: Materials & Steps

Materials You’ll Need

1. Dish soap: A quality, eco-friendly soap works best. Choice magazine recommends “Coles Ultra Advanced Power Soak Lime”.
2. Warm water: Warm for washing; clean warm or cool for rinsing.
3. Dish rack or towel: For drying.
4. Sponge or dish brush: For scrubbing.
5. Dishcloth or towel: For drying and wiping surfaces.
6. Gloves (optional): Helpful for sensitive skin.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Scrape off excess food: Bin or compost the scraps first.
2. Set up the sink: Plug the sink or fill a basin with warm water. Add a few drops of dish soap and agitate to create suds.
3. Organise: Group similar items. Start with least-dirty items (glasses, utensils); save greasy pots/pans for last.
4. Wash: Dip in soapy water, scrub (pay attention to crevices/edges), rinse with clean water. Soak stubborn bits before scrubbing. Clean both inside and out.
5. Cookware & utensils: For burnt-on residue use a specialised scrubber or steel wool. Avoid abrasives on non-stick.
6. Rinse thoroughly: Rinse each item to remove soap residue.
7. Dry & store: Air-dry on a rack or clean towel. Wipe any remaining droplets and put away once dry.
8. Clean your tools: Rinse sponge/brush and let air dry. Empty and clean the sink or basin.
9. Final touches: Wipe down benches and the sink area. Dispose of scraps responsibly.

Conclusion: Handwashing can be quick and satisfying when done efficiently — and it often saves energy and water.

Dishwasher: Steps & Maintenance

Steps

1. Preparation: Scrape excess food; ensure items are labelled dishwasher-safe. Note: some batters set like concrete if left to dry.
2. Load: Place larger items (pots/pans) on sides/back; plates, glasses, and smaller items in racks. Avoid overcrowding so jets can do their job. Don’t block the detergent dispenser.
3. Add detergent: Fill per manufacturer’s instructions. (Value pick mentioned: Aldi Logix Platinum 18-in-1 Lemon tablets.)
4. Choose cycle: Select the appropriate program (normal, heavy, quick, etc.).
5. Start: Close door securely; press power then start.
6. Unload: After completion, open carefully to vent steam; unload bottom rack first, then top.

Maintenance

• Clean the filter and spray arms regularly.
• Wipe the interior and door seals.
• Check and refill rinse aid as needed.

Always refer to your dishwasher’s manual for model-specific guidance.

Bibliography

1. Whirlpool Corporation. “Dishwasher User Instructions.”
2. Maytag. “Dishwasher Use & Care Guide.”
3. GE Appliances. “Dishwasher Owner’s Manual.”
4. Choice Magazine. “Best and worst detergents”.