Wash Dishes in the Dishwasher Instead of By Hand

Amanda Peterson

January 26, 2024  •  2 Minute Read

Money Saving Tips

We often find ourselves looking for practical and cost-effective ways to save both time and money. This Frugal Friday, let's take a look into the kitchen and explore a simple yet impactful change that can make a difference in your daily routine and household expenses – washing dishes in the dishwasher instead of by hand.

In a recent Kiplinger Report, washing dishes by hand could use up to 40 gallons of water, whereas, modern dishwasher efficiency ratings boast a minimal 3-4 gallons per load.

CreditSoup takes a look at the pros & cons of using the dishwasher vs washing dishes by hand.

The Dishwasher Advantage

Efficiency: Dishwashers are renowned for their time-saving capabilities. In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, time is a precious commodity. By loading the dishwasher with your dirty dishes, you can reclaim valuable minutes to focus on other tasks or simply unwind.

Water Conservation: Contrary to popular belief, dishwashers are often more water-efficient than hand washing. Modern, energy-efficient dishwashers use less water per load, making them an environmentally conscious choice. For those looking to reduce their water consumption, the dishwasher can be a surprising ally.

Sanitization: Dishwashers are equipped with high-temperature settings that can sanitize dishes more effectively than hand washing with regular tap water. This is particularly beneficial when dealing with items like cutting boards and baby bottles that require thorough cleaning.

The Hand Washing Perspective

Energy Consumption: Hand washing dishes typically requires less energy than running a dishwasher. For those mindful of their energy usage and looking to trim utility bills, hand washing may be a preferable option.

Control over Fragile Items: Delicate glassware or heirloom dishes may fare better with gentle hand washing. The control and care you can provide when washing by hand might be worth the extra time invested.

Noisy Appliances: Some individuals find the noise generated by dishwashers disruptive, especially in smaller living spaces. Hand washing, on the other hand, offers a quiet and serene alternative.

Finding the Middle Ground

Balancing frugality and convenience often involves finding a middle ground. Consider using the dishwasher for heavily soiled or numerous items, reserving hand washing for those delicate pieces that require special attention.

Making Your Dishwasher Last

Some of the best dishwashers can clean pretty much anything you use on your dinner table, from plates and glassware, to cutlery. However, if you want your dishwasher to last, it's recommended that you don’t put any of these 13 things in your dishwasher:

• #1. Chef's Knives
• #2. Wooden Cutting Boards
• #3. Non-stick Pans
• #4. Aluminum Cooking Pans
• #5. Copper Cooking Pans
• #6. Graters
• #7. Cast Iron
• #8. Insulated Mugs
• #9. Pressure Cooker Lids
• #10. Fragile Glassware or Crystal
• #11. Fine China
• #12. Anything with Sticky Labels
• #13. Thin Plastic Containers

Due to the strong washing action in dishwashers, certain items should never be cleaned in them. Whether it's the humidity or the detergent, these objects are prone to damage when subjected to the robust cleaning process of your dependable dishwasher.

It All Comes Out In The Wash

The debate between dishwashers and hand washing ultimately hinges on personal preferences, lifestyle, and environmental considerations. Both methods have their merits, and the key is to strike a balance that aligns with your values and priorities. Happy dishwashing, and here's to a Frugal Friday filled with smart choices!

Frugal Friday Series by CreditSoup.com