Why Dishwashers Are Better Than Handwashing

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, a dishwasher is present in 68% of American homes. However, a full 20% of people who own a dishwasher use it less than once a week. What gives? If people have access to such a convenient kitchen appliance, why wouldn't they make it a point to use it whenever possible? Unfortunately, many people are misinformed about the effectiveness of dishwashers, and genuinely believe that handwashing dishes is a better choice. We are here to make the case in favor of dishwasher use and debunk some unsubstantiated rumors. If you're on the fence, we promise you'll be on Team Dishwasher by the end of this article!

Dishwashers Are More Efficient

It's a common misconception that dishwashers use a great deal of energy, and that washing by hand is the "greener" option. The fact is that most modern dishwashers are extremely energy-efficient. Many new models have a built-in heating element that heats water much more quickly and economically than your home's water heater. Another important plus is that dishwashers use less water than handwashing. The average kitchen faucet flows at roughly two gallons per minute. Dishwashers manufactured after 2013 use under five gallons of water per load, and some go as low as three. Unless you're able to clean an entire load of dishes in under 90 seconds, a dishwasher is unquestionably the better option.

Another great reason to use the dishwasher is its ability to get your dishes much cleaner than manual scrubbing. Most dishwashers clean dishes with water between 110 and 170 degrees Fahrenheit, and while it would not be pleasant to have your hands under water at those temperatures, a dishwasher can handle that kind of heat with no problem. If that weren't enough to convince you, consider the crud magnet that is your kitchen sponge. Its soggy surface and constant contact with food particles ironically make the cleaning tool one of the filthiest objects in your entire house, and using a dishwasher eliminates the possibility of this bacteria convention making contact with your dishes and flatware.

Dishwashers Save You Time

It's the 21st century. Phones can recognize a fingerprint. Cars can parallel park themselves. An audio speaker can answer your questions. In an efficient and modern world such as this, why would you choose to wash dishes as it was done in the days before electricity? If you have a machine in your home that will clean and sanitize your plates, drinkware and utensils, take full advantage of modern convenience and spend your time doing something more fun than washing dishes. (Note: Nearly anything is more fun than washing dishes.)

If you're a dishwasher owner, we hope you'll be more willing and eager to use the efficient and convenient machine you've already got inside your home!