# The Great Dishwashing Debate: Why Soaking Isn’t the Same as Washing
We’ve all been there—facing a sink full of dirty dishes, dreading the scrubbing ahead. In an attempt to make life easier, many people swear by soaking dishes before washing them. But does soaking actually clean your plates and pans? Or is it just a way to postpone the inevitable?
In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into the dishwashing debate and explain why soaking is NOT the same as washing.
## Soaking vs. Washing: What’s the Difference?
At first glance, soaking might seem like a smart strategy. After all, leaving dirty dishes in hot water can loosen leftover food and grease. But soaking alone doesn’t do the job completely. Let’s break it down:
So while soaking helps prepare dishes for washing, it doesn’t replace the actual process of cleaning.
## Why Soaking Alone Isn’t Enough
Soaking might seem like an easy fix, but here’s why relying on it alone can lead to some unpleasant outcomes:
### 1. Bacteria Love Warm, Stagnant Water
Leaving dishes in water for too long creates a breeding ground for bacteria. Think about it—warm, dirty water mixed with food particles becomes a perfect environment for germs to thrive. Instead of making your dishes cleaner, soaking them for hours might actually make them dirtier!
### 2. Soaking Doesn’t Remove Grease and Germs
Oil and grease love to cling to surfaces, and simple soaking won’t remove them. Without proper scrubbing, greasy residue stays behind, leaving your dishes feeling slimy. Worse, bacteria from raw foods (like raw chicken) won’t be washed away unless you physically scrub your dishes with soap and hot water.
### 3. Bad Odors Can Develop
Ever notice a foul smell coming from your sink when dishes have been sitting for a while? That’s because food particles break down and begin to rot. This creates unpleasant odors that can spread beyond your kitchen sink and be difficult to eliminate.
### 4. Some Foods Harden Instead of Softening
While water helps loosen some food particles, certain residues—like dried egg or oatmeal—harden when left too long. Instead of making cleaning easier, soaking can make scrubbing more difficult.
## When Is Soaking Actually Helpful?
Now, before you throw out the idea of soaking completely, there are situations where it can help:
The key? A short soak is fine, but avoid leaving dishes in the sink for hours (or worse, overnight!).
## How to Wash Dishes the Right Way
Want sparkling clean dishes every time? Follow these simple steps:
### 1. Rinse Off Large Food Particles
Before putting dishes in the sink, scrape off extra food and rinse them if necessary. This prevents food from clogging your drain and stops bacteria from developing.
### 2. Use Hot, Soapy Water
Water alone isn’t enough. Use dish soap and warm water to break down grease and bacteria effectively.
### 3. Scrub Every Surface
A quick rinse doesn’t count as washing! Use a sponge or dish brush to scrub all sides of each dish—including edges, handles, and the undersides of cups or bowls.
### 4. Rinse Thoroughly
Leftover soap can leave a residue, so be sure to rinse each dish with clean, running water.
### 5. Dry Properly
Leaving dishes to air-dry on a drying rack is best to prevent bacteria growth. If you prefer hand-drying, use a clean towel.
## Final Thoughts: Don’t Skip the Scrub!
While soaking has its place in dishwashing, it should never replace scrubbing with soap and water. Think of soaking as a helping hand, not a solution. The real magic happens when you actively wash your dishes, ensuring they’re free of germs, grease, and odors.
So, next time you’re tempted to leave your dirty plates soaking overnight, remember: soaking is NOT washing. Your stomach—and your kitchen—will thank you!
What are your thoughts on the great dishwashing debate? Do you soak your dishes, or do you wash them right away? Let us know in the comments below!