How to Sanitize Dishes Properly
We all know washing your dishes is important, but have you ever considered the importance of sanitizing your dishes? Many of us may think that because we’re washing our dishes that they are being sanitized—but that’s not entirely true. Sanitizing your dishes is another step in warewashing, and perhaps the most important. When you sanitize your dishes, you’re ridding them of harmful bacteria that may have formed on the food contact surface, which means a healthier dining experience. If you’re curious about how to properly sanitize your dishes, we’ve got your back!
Why Should You Sanitize Your Dishes?
As mentioned before, sanitizing your dishes means you’re killing bacteria, but it goes so much deeper than that. When you wash then sanitize your dishes, you’re killing the bacteria that can cause foodborne illnesses. This is vital for any and all food contact surfaces. Skipping the sanitizing step means that you run the risk of spreading harmful bacteria around your kitchen and, ultimately, onto food.
How to Sanitize Dishes With Bleach
Bleach is a common household sanitizing solution that many are sure to have. It’s great at sanitizing food contact surfaces when used correctly. Before you start using it as a sanitizer, make sure that it’s safe to use on your dishes without damaging them. Bleach works best on hard, non-porous surfaces.
- Step 1—Thoroughly wash and rinse your dishes before sanitizing.
- Step 2—In a sink or rinse bucket, mix 1 tablespoon (tbsp) of unscented chlorine bleach with 1 gallon of cool water.
- Step 3—Fully submerge your cleaned dishes in the bleach solution.
- Step 4—Let your dishes air dry.
When working with bleach, make sure you’ve got some gloves handy.
How to Sanitize Dishes Without Bleach
If you don’t have bleach at the ready, don’t have bleach-safe surfaces or simply don’t want to use it, there are two popular methods for sanitizing dishes without bleach.
How to Sanitize Dishes with Hot Water
Use caution when using this method as it involves hot water and can cause injury. Be sure to use sturdy cleaning gloves or sanitized tongs to help.
- Step 1—Thoroughly wash and rinse your dishes before sanitizing.
- Step 2—Fill a sink or rinse bucket with hot water at 170° F or higher.
- Step 3—Place dishes in the hot water and let them soak for at least 30 seconds.
- Step 4—After the soak time is done, remove the dishes and let them air dry completely.
How to Sanitize Dishes with Vinegar
Vinegar is a mild disinfectant that’s safe to use pretty much anywhere in the kitchen. Due to its acidity though, you probably won’t be able to use it on surfaces that are susceptible to damage from it—like stainless steel.
- Step 1—Thoroughly wash and rinse your dishes before sanitizing.
- Step 2—Mix equal parts water and vinegar into a sink or rinse bucket.
- Step 3—Soak your dishes in the vinegar solution for 30 minutes or more.
- Step 4—Remove the dishes and thoroughly rinse them.
- Step 5—Let your dishes air dry completely.