Are you someone who prefers to wash dishes in cold water? You might be surprised to learn that while cleaning dishes with cold water is possible, it might not be the most effective way to eliminate germs and bacteria. So, can you wash dishes in cold water? The answer is yes, but you should know a few things before you do.
This article will explore whether you can wash dishes in cold water and at the best temperature. We’ll also discuss why it’s important to wash dishes in hot water and whether the temperature of the water matters when washing dishes with dish soap.
As a home mom (or dad), we understand the importance of keeping our dishes clean and sanitary, so we’ll provide you with all the information you need to ensure your dishes are as clean as possible.
Keep reading if you’re curious whether washing dishes in cold water is a good idea or simply looking for ways to improve your dishwashing routine.
We’ll provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about how to clean your dishes.
Key Takeaways
- While washing dishes in cold water is possible, hot water is more effective at killing germs and bacteria.
- Washing dishes in cold water can lead to less sanitary dishes and potentially make you sick.
- To ensure your dishes are as clean as possible, it’s best to wash them in hot water with dish soap.
Table of Contents
Can You Wash Dishes in Cold Water?
Yes, you can wash dishes in cold water, but it depends on the type of dishes and the level of cleanliness you want to achieve. Coldwater has its benefits and drawbacks when it comes to washing dishes. Let’s take a closer look at them.
Benefits of Washing Dishes in Cold Water
- Dissolving proteins better than hot water: Cold water is more effective at dissolving proteins like egg and cheese than hot water. This makes it easier to clean dishes that have these types of residues.
- Saving energy and money by not heating water: Washing dishes in cold water can save you money on your energy bill since you won’t need to heat the water. It’s also better for the environment since you’ll use less energy.
- Reducing the risk of scalding or burning your hands: Cold water is less likely to cause burns or scalds than hot water, which can be dangerous if you’re not careful.
- Preserving the quality and durability of some dishes: Some dishes, such as glassware and china, can be damaged by hot water. Washing them in cold water can help preserve their quality and durability.
Drawbacks of Washing Dishes in Cold Water
- Not killing germs and bacteria effectively: Cold water is not as effective at killing germs and bacteria as hot water. If you want to sanitize your dishes, you’ll need to use hot water or a sanitizing solution.
- Not removing grease and oil easily: Hot water is less effective at removing grease and oil than cold water. You must use more dish soap or a degreasing agent to clean your dishes.
- Not rinsing off soap residue well: Coldwater is not as effective at rinsing off soap residue as hot water. This means you’ll need to rinse your dishes more thoroughly to ensure all the soap is removed.
- Taking more time and effort to scrub and rinse: To clean dishes, cold water requires more scrubbing and rinsing than hot water. This means washing dishes in cold water takes more time and effort.
- Not drying quickly or completely: Cold water can cause dishes to take longer to dry or not dry completely. This can lead to water spots or streaks on your dishes.
Washing dishes in cold water is possible but has pros and cons. Hot water is how to sanitize your dishes or remove grease and oil easily.
However, if you want to save energy and money or preserve the quality of some dishes, washing dishes in cold water can be a good option. Just be prepared to put in extra effort to clean your dishes.
Related: Can you wash dishes with bleach?
What is the Best Temperature to Wash Dishes?
When washing dishes, you may wonder what the best temperature is. Unfortunately, there is no definitive answer, as different temperatures have different advantages and disadvantages.
Here are some general guidelines to consider when choosing the best temperature to wash dishes:
- Consider the type of dishes you are washing and their level of dirtiness.
- Use cold water for dishes that have protein-based stains, such as eggs, milk, or blood.
- Use hot water for dishes that have grease or oil-based stains, such as butter, cheese, or meat.
- Use a combination of hot and cold water for dishes that have mixed stains or need sanitization.
- Adjust the temperature according to your personal preference and comfort.
Here are some specific recommendations for the optimal temperature to wash dishes:
- The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends using water at 110°F (43°C) or higher for washing dishes by hand. [1]
- The US Department of Energy (DOE) recommends using water at 120°F (49°C) or lower for washing dishes by machine. [2]
- The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends using water at 158°F (70°C) or higher for disinfecting dishes by boiling or steaming. [3]
It’s important to note that using hot water to wash dishes can use more energy, as your water heater must work harder to heat it. However, cold water may be less effective at removing certain stains, requiring more scrubbing or cleaning products.
Ultimately, the best temperature to wash dishes will depend on your preferences and the dishes you are washing. Consider the guidelines and recommendations above, and adjust to find the best temperature.
Why You Should Wash Dishes in Hot Water
When washing dishes, many people wonder if using hot water is necessary. The answer is yes! Washing dishes in hot water is essential to kill germs and bacteria that can cause foodborne illnesses.
According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 48 million people get sick, 128,000 are hospitalized, and 3,000 die from foodborne diseases each year in the US. [4]
Worldwide, about 600 million people get sick, and 420,000 die from foodborne diseases each year, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Some of the most common causes of foodborne diseases are bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, Campylobacter, and Listeria.
Washing dishes in hot water can prevent the spread of these harmful bacteria. A study by Ohio State University found that washing dishes in hot water reduced bacterial counts by 99.999% compared to cold water. [5]
Another study by Rutgers University found that washing dishes in hot water with detergent removed more than 99.9% of bacteria compared to cold water without detergent. [6]
A study by Kansas State University found that washing dishes in hot water with bleach eliminated Salmonella contamination on plastic cutting boards. [7]
So, how hot should the water be? According to another source, when hand-washing dishes in the sink, “temperature of water isn’t a factor until above 135, which is way, way, way too hot for anyone’s hand.”
However, it’s important to note that dishwashers typically use water heated to at least 120 degrees Fahrenheit to clean dishes effectively.
In addition to killing bacteria, washing dishes in hot water has other benefits. Hot water naturally lifts away grease and food particles, making it easier to clean dishes. It can also reduce drying time, as hot water dries more quickly on dishes than warm or cool water.
Of course, taking safety precautions when using hot water to wash dishes is important. Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands from burns, and never leave a child unattended near hot water.
Additionally, consider the environmental impact of using hot water. Using a water heater can consume a lot of energy, so limit your use of hot water when possible.
Does the Temperature of the Water Matter When Washing Dishes with Dish Soap?
Have you ever wondered if the water temperature you use to wash dishes with dish soap matters? The answer is yes, but not as much as you might think. Let’s dive into how dish soap works and how the temperature of the water affects its performance.
Dish soap is a surfactant that lowers the surface tension of water, allowing it to penetrate and lift dirt from surfaces. It also contains emulsifiers that bind with grease and oil, making them soluble in water. Additionally, dish soap contains antibacterial agents that inhibit or kill germs and bacteria on surfaces.
Now, let’s talk about the temperature of the water. Hot water enhances the cleaning power of dish soap by increasing its solubility, viscosity, and foaming ability. Hot water also helps dissolve and rinse off grease and oil better than cold water. However, hot water is unnecessary for dish soap, as it can still clean dishes effectively in cold water.
Some dish soaps are specially formulated for cold water and can save energy and water by reducing the need for heating and rinsing. So, if you’re trying to save on your energy bill, consider using a cold water dish soap.
It’s important to note that the temperature of the water should be manageable, as it can make it harder for the dish soap to dissolve and clean effectively. The FDA recommends a temperature of at least 160 degrees Fahrenheit to sanitize dishes with heat.
In summary, the water temperature does matter when washing dishes with dish soap, but not as much as you might think. Hot water can enhance the cleaning power of dish soap, but it can be done without working effectively. Consider using a cold water dish soap to save energy and water.
Related: Can you wash cast iron with soap?
Can Washing Dishes in Cold Water Make You Sick?
You may have heard that washing dishes in cold water can make you sick. But is it true? The short answer is no. Washing dishes in cold water will not make you sick if you follow proper hygiene and safety practices.
Several factors can influence the risk of getting sick from washing dishes in cold water. Proper dishwashing involves considering the water source and quality, detergent type and amount, dish type and condition, washing method and frequency, rinsing and drying method, and post-washing storage and handling.
To avoid getting sick from washing dishes in cold water, here are some tips and precautions you can take:
- Use clean and potable water from a reliable source.
- Use enough detergent to remove dirt and grease from dishes.
- Use separate utensils and cutting boards for raw and cooked foods.
- Wash dishes immediately after use or soak them in water with detergent or vinegar.
- Rinse dishes thoroughly with hot water or sanitize them with bleach or vinegar.
- Dry dishes completely with a clean cloth or air dry them on a rack.
- Store dishes in a dry and ventilated place away from dust and insects.
The FDA recommends washing dishes in hot water at least 110°F to kill germs and bacteria effectively. However, you can still wash dishes safely and effectively if you don’t have access to hot water or prefer to use cold water.
Using enough detergent and scrubbing dishes thoroughly can help remove dirt and grease, which can harbor harmful pathogens. Additionally, rinsing dishes with hot water or sanitizing them with bleach or vinegar can help kill any remaining bacteria or germs.
Drying dishes completely before storing them is essential to prevent mold and bacteria growth. Using a clean cloth or air-drying dishes on a rack can help ensure they are germ-free and ready to use.
In summary, washing dishes in cold water will not make you sick if you follow proper hygiene and safety practices. Using clean water, enough detergent, and following the tips and precautions outlined above, you can sanitize your dishes effectively and keep your family safe from foodborne illnesses.
Frequently Asked Question
How often should I wash dishes?
You should wash dishes at least once daily or after every meal to prevent food residue from hardening and attracting pests.
How can I wash dishes faster and easier?
To wash dishes faster and easier: scrape off excess food, soak dishes in hot water and detergent, scrub from least to most dirty, rinse with hot water or a hose, then dry with a cloth or air dry on a rack.
How can I wash dishes without dish soap?
Clean dishes without dish soap using alternative cleaning agents like baking soda, vinegar, lemon juice, or salt.
How can I wash dishes without running water?
Wash dishes without running water by pouring boiled water over them in a sink or basin, using bottled or rainwater, or using wet wipes or paper towels.
How can I wash dishes without a sink?
Wash dishes without a sink using a bowl for washing, another for rinsing, a tray for draining, and a towel to dry on a table or counter.
