10 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Washing Dishes

While it's hardly a fan-favorite chore, taking care when washing your dishes is essential to ensure they get the deepest clean possible. Giving kitchenware a quick rinse and calling it a day can leave behind unwanted odors, bacteria, and food residue that makes the items unsanitary to use. Of course, everyone wants to believe their dishes are getting a thorough cleaning, but there are a few dishwashing mistakes many people make when completing this household task. Whether you're hand-washing or using a dishwasher, be sure to avoid what experts say are the most common dishwashing pitfalls.

Using a Dirty Sponge

Working with a clean sponge is essential when washing dishes by hand. "Dirty sponges can harbor bacteria and bad odors, so if not properly cleaned, it could spread bacteria and odors to dishes," says Bree Lemmen, kitchen brand manager for Whirlpool. "It’s best to clean your sponges every couple of days and replace it altogether every one to two weeks."

Pre-Rinsing Dishes Before Using the Dishwasher

Believe it or not, there's no need to rinse your dishes before putting them in the dishwasher. "Dishwasher detergent is designed to target any leftover food particles on dishes, so cleaning dishes beforehand can actually inhibit the effectiveness of the detergent," says Lemmen.

Using Too Much Soap

Using a lot of soap when washing dishes doesn't equate to cleanliness. "Using too much soap not only wastes products but can leave a film or residue on dishes," says Kathy Cohoon, the director of franchise operations at Two Maids. "With most brands and formulas, you only need a few drops for a load of dishes. Overuse of dish soap usually won’t damage dishes but will cause more work as you’ll wind up having to clean off residue."

Cleaning Dishes in a Dirty Sink

Washing dishes in a dirty sink can create more work and leave clean dishes subject to cross-contamination and bacteria, says Cohoon. "It’s best to wash dishes in a clean area for the best results and the most sanitary dishes," she adds. The same rule applies to washing dishes in a dirty dishwasher. "Regular cleaning of your dishwasher prevents smells, as well as detergent and food debris build-up that can impact the dishwasher’s cleaning results over time," says Lemmen.

Not Using the Correct Water Temperature

Choosing the right water temperature when washing dishes doesn't just ensure they're cleaned properly, but it's also important for safety reasons. "Using water that is too hot can hurt your hands and even cause burns," says Cohoon. "Meanwhile, using water that is too cold may not cut through grime as easily, and you may need to use more elbow grease to get things sparkling." If washing dishes in a dishwasher, the ideal water temperature is 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

Using the Wrong Soap

Avoid using dishwashing detergent when hand-washing dishes and vice versa. "Soaps and cleaning solutions are specifically formulated for their own tasks, so using dish detergent while hand-washing can damage both skin and dishes as formulas are more concentrated and differently activated," says Cohoon. "Using dish soap in your machine may also damage the unit and cause a sudsy mess."

Storing Dishes Before Drying Them

Always ensure your dishes are dry before putting them away. "When there’s still moisture on dishes, make sure to wipe them down before putting them away," says Cohoon. "Putting damp dishes in cabinets or pantries can be a recipe for mildew and may even damage the interior of your cabinet."

Overloading Your Dishwasher

Don't cram your dishes into your dishwasher to fit it all into one cycle. "Overcrowding the dishwasher can impact the cleanliness of your dishes and damage the appliance," says Lemmen. "When dishes are too close or improperly loaded, including silverware nestling together, they will not be properly cleaned since spray and detergent cannot reach each surface. Sprayer arms may also get trapped or stuck when too many dishes are loaded at once."

Dishwashing Items That Should Be Hand-Washed

Knowing which items can and cannot be put in the dishwasher will save you from potential mishaps. "Certain materials and delicate items, like wood, crystal, and certain pots and pans, should not be washed in the dishwasher because they may get damaged by the detergent or high heat," says Lemmen.

Letting Dishes Pile Up in the Sink

Staying on top of your dishes saves you time in the long run and keeps your kitchen looking and smelling its best. "Letting dishes or food messes pile up in the sink can cause unwanted smells in the kitchen and potentially have an impact on your drain," says Cohoon.