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Get the most out of your sink-full of Sunlight

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You might have many different reasons for washing dishes by hand. Follow our advice to maximise the time you spend doing the dishes.

Dishwashing liquid is something many of us take for granted. We use it every day – it’s a kitchen essential – and yet very few of us actually know much about it. Do you know why it’s important to use Dishwashing liquid when washing dishes? Do you know how it works? Do you know how to ensure you use it safely in your home? No? Then here’s everything you need to know:

What is Dishwashing Liquid Used For?

Why use Dishwashing liquid over plain water? Well, that’s obvious. Imagine washing your hair in water alone or washing your clothes without using any detergent. It’s the soap that really gets dishes clean and removes any bacteria left by meats and fish.

If you’ve enjoyed meaty dish or curry, you can agree that cleaning up is impossible without a good Dishwashing liquid. That’s because grease clings to plates like a baby clings to a bottle of warm milk, and, as you’ll know, oils are immune to the effects of water – what you need is Sunlight Dishwashing liquid that can cut through grease, leaving clean plates that are ready to be used again.

How Does Dishwashing liquid work?

The way Dishwashing liquid works is actually very clever. The solution contains molecules that have two opposing sides – one side is hydrophilic (meaning it loves water) and one end is hydrophobic (meaning it does everything it can to stay away from water). The hydrophobic ends of the molecules cling to the grease on your dirty plates, while the hydrophilic ends try their best to get into the water. Fortunately, the hydrophilic ends are a little stronger, and the molecules are drawn into the water, with the grease attached. Clever, huh?

How to wash dishes by hand

Dirty dishes should be soaked – before trying to wash them. If you have burnt-on grease on your pans or pots, then add a few drops of SUNLIGHT Dishwashing liquid to the inside and fill them with hot water. Let them soak for as long as you can – the longer they soak, the easier it can be to wash and remove any tough stains.

Prepare the sink – plug the sink drain, and (if you have one) put a washing dishes up bowl in the sink. Add a few drops of a dishwashing liquid and fill the sink basin or bowl with warm water. Not only will this ensure clean dishes but that you save on water, energy, and dish soap. If you wash each dish individually under the tap, you’ll be wasting a lot of water!

Start washing the ‘cleanest’ dishes and move onto anything that is more oily or dirty – this way, the basin won’t get too greasy too soon. Start with glasses, then cutlery, then plates and bowls. Finish with the dishes that are used to cook with, as these are likely the dirtiest!

Rinse the dishes — once you’ve scrubbed all of the food off of the dishes, set them aside and rinse them all together afterward. Make sure that there’s no soapy film remaining on the dishes.

When drying dishes, use a dish rack— if you have the time and space, air-drying the dishes is the easiest and most hygienic option. Dishtowels can harbour bacteria, so if you must hand-dry your dishes, make sure that the towel is clean.

Additional Tips for Dishwashing by Hand

  • Hot water cuts through grease the best – however, if you are washing dishes with dairy products or anything starchy on them, use cold water instead. These foods can become gummy upon contact with warm water.

  • Delicate dishes? – wash anything particularly delicate separately. You can place a towel at the bottom of the bowl or sink before you start washing – this might help cushion the delicate items and make them less likely to break.