According to Oregon State University Extension Service, hand washing dishes is far less effective in destroying the microorganisms on your dishes than a dishwasher. The hot water in a dishwasher reaches at least 140 degrees Fahrenheit. This is impossible in a sink. There is a simple alternative, however.
After washing with soap and water, soak your dishes in hot water with one tablespoon of chlorine bleach for 5 to 10 minutes. The best ratio is one gallon of hot water, which is about right in most sinks. The bleach will kill all bacteria as effectively as a dishwasher. The bleach will evaporate as your dishes dry. This is especially beneficial if colds or flu bugs are trekking around the home.
The editors, Real Simple, July 2012
Photo: thorntm (flickr)
Jerry De Luca is a Christian freelance writer who loves perusing dozens of interesting and informative publications. When he finds any useful info he summarizes it, taking the main points, and creates a (hopefully) helpful blog post.
