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Wrong dishwashing habits that seem clean but are secretly ‘bringing illness’ to your health, stop now before it’s too late
## 2. **Washing Dishes in a Dirty Sink**
Your kitchen sink is a hotspot for bacteria from raw meat, vegetables, and dirty dishes. If you don’t clean your sink before or after washing dishes, you might be contaminating your clean plates and utensils.
**Fix it:** Scrub your sink with disinfectant or a mixture of vinegar and baking soda regularly. Rinse thoroughly before washing dishes, and dry the sink with a clean towel or paper towels.
## 3. **Using Lukewarm or Cold Water**
Many people believe that warm water is enough to clean dishes, but washing dishes in lukewarm or cold water can leave grease and bacteria behind. Hot water helps to dissolve grease and kill germs effectively.
**Fix it:** Use the hottest water your hands can tolerate (ideally above 110°F/43°C) for washing and rinsing dishes. This will ensure better sanitation.
## 4. **Skipping the Drying Step or Using a Dirty Towel**
Allowing dishes to air dry is best, but some people prefer drying with a towel — which can sometimes be dirty or damp, becoming a breeding ground for bacteria. Using such towels can re-contaminate your clean dishes.
**Fix it:** Use a clean, dry towel or paper towels to dry dishes if you don’t want to air dry. Change towels frequently, or better yet, air dry whenever possible.
## 5. **Overloading the Dishwasher**
Putting too many dishes in your dishwasher at once can prevent water and detergent from reaching every surface, leaving food residue and germs on plates and utensils.
**Fix it:** Avoid overcrowding your dishwasher. Arrange dishes properly so water can circulate freely, and always use the recommended amount of detergent.
## 6. **Not Cleaning Your Dishwasher**
Dishwashers themselves need regular cleaning to prevent mold, mildew, and bacteria buildup. A dirty dishwasher can end up spreading germs onto your dishes instead of cleaning them.
**Fix it:** Clean your dishwasher monthly by running a cycle with a dishwasher cleaner or a cup of white vinegar placed on the top rack.
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### Final Thoughts
Dishwashing might seem like a simple chore, but how you do it can have a big impact on your health. Avoid these common mistakes to stop harmful bacteria from contaminating your kitchen and food. By changing a few habits — like sanitizing sponges, using hot water, and keeping your sink and towels clean — you’ll keep your dishes truly clean and your family safe from illness.
Remember: A clean kitchen starts with the right dishwashing habits!
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