The Process of Washing and Sanitizing Dishes

Washing and sanitizing dishes is critical to maintaining kitchen hygiene and food safety. Whether you’re working in a home kitchen or a professional setting, following the proper steps ensures that dishes, utensils, and equipment are clean and safe to use. Here’s a step-by-step guide to the process:

1. Scraping and Pre-Rinsing

Before washing, remove all leftover food, grease, and debris from the dishes.

• What to do:

  • Scrape off food scraps into the trash or compost bin.

  • Rinse dishes with warm water to loosen dried or stuck-on food.

2. Washing

The purpose of washing is to remove dirt, food particles, and grease using soap or detergent.

• What to use:

  • Warm or hot water (at least 110°F / 43°C is recommended).

  • Dishwashing detergent or soap.

  • A sponge, scrub brush, or dishcloth.

• What to do:

  • Fill the sink or a dishpan with hot, soapy water.

  • Wash dishes thoroughly, one at a time, paying attention to corners and edges.

  • Change the water if it becomes too dirty or greasy.

3. Rinsing

Rinsing removes any remaining soap, loosened food, and residue.

• What to use:

  • Clean, hot water.

• What to do:

  • Rinse each item under running hot water or in a second sink/dishpan filled with clean hot water.

  • Make sure all detergent and suds are completely rinsed off.

4. Sanitizing

Sanitizing kills any remaining germs or bacteria after washing and rinsing.

• What to use:

  • A sanitizing solution (e.g., 1 tablespoon of unscented bleach per gallon of warm water) or a commercial food-safe sanitizer.

  • In restaurants or professional kitchens, a dishwasher that reaches high temperatures may be used instead.

• What to do:

  • Immerse the clean, rinsed dishes in the sanitizing solution for at least 1 minute.

  • Ensure the solution covers all surfaces of the dishes.

  • For commercial dishwashers, make sure the final rinse cycle reaches the correct temperature (usually 180°F / 82°C for sanitizing).

5. Air Drying

Drying is the final step. Proper drying prevents bacterial growth caused by moisture.

• What to do:

  • Place sanitized dishes on a clean, sanitized drying rack.

  • Allow them to air dry completely.

  • Do not use towels to dry, as they can spread germs.

Summary of the Steps:

1. Scrape and pre-rinse food from dishes.

2. Wash with hot, soapy water.

3. Rinse with clean hot water.

4. Sanitize with a proper sanitizing solution.

5. Air dry on a clean rack.

Following this process helps ensure that all kitchenware is clean, safe, and ready for use — helping to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria and maintain a healthy kitchen environment.