How to Wash Dinnerware by Hand Properly?

While dishwashers offer convenience, washing your dinnerware by hand remains the best way to preserve the beauty and longevity of delicate plates, bowls, and cutlery. Whether it’s your fine porcelain, everyday stoneware, or stainless steel cutlery, each requires a careful touch to ensure it remains spotless and undamaged.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials of handwashing your dinnerware, so your pieces stay in excellent condition, meal after meal.

Scraping Excess Food

The first step to effective handwashing is simple—remove any leftover food. Scrape excess bits and scraps from your plates, bowls, and cookware. This not only makes washing easier but also prevents food from clogging your sink or sticking stubbornly to your dishware.

You can use a rubber spatula, a spoon, or even the back of a knife to get the job done. Pro tip: For dishes with tough, sticky foods like cheese or sauces, a gentle scrape before rinsing works wonders.

Pre-Rinsing the Dishes

Once the excess food is removed, pre-rinsing is a crucial step to ensure easier washing. Rinse the plates, bowls, and utensils under warm water to loosen any food particles that may still be stuck. This step is particularly important if your dishes have been sitting out for a while or if you're dealing with greasy pans. Think of it as a warm-up before the main event—the soapy scrub!

Washing the Dishes

Now, onto the heart of the process: washing. Fill your sink with warm water and add a mild dishwashing liquid. Using a soft sponge or dishcloth, gently wash each piece, starting with the less soiled items like glasses or cutlery. Gradually move on to more greasy or heavy items like cookware. Make sure to scrub both the interior and exterior of bowls and plates, paying extra attention to decorative details or intricate designs.

For stubborn stains or grease, a little bit of baking soda sprinkled onto the sponge can help lift the grime without scratching the surface.

Drying the Dishes

Once you've washed each item thoroughly, it's time to dry them. While air-drying might seem convenient, it can often lead to unsightly water spots, especially on glassware and cutlery. To keep your dinnerware pristine, we recommend drying them by hand using a soft, lint-free cloth. Gently pat the items dry and, if necessary, use a second cloth to polish and remove any lingering streaks.

How to Clean Plates?

1. Step 1: Scrape away food remnants.
2. Step 2: Rinse under warm water.
3. Step 3: Wash both sides with a soapy sponge, focusing on any sticky areas.
4. Step 4: Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue.
5. Step 5: Dry with a soft towel to prevent water spots.

Precaution: Never use abrasive scrubbers on delicate plates, as this can damage the finish, especially on fine China or porcelain.

How to Clean Bowls?

1. Step 1: Remove food residues and rinse the bowl with warm water.
2. Step 2: Clean the interior and exterior using a soft sponge and mild dish soap.
3. Step 3: Rinse well and check for any leftover soap.
4. Step 4: Dry gently with a soft cloth to avoid scratches.

Precaution: Pay attention to the rims—avoid rough handling to prevent chips.

How to Clean Cutlery?

1. Step 1: Rinse each piece of cutlery individually under warm water.
2. Step 2: Use a sponge to scrub handles, blades, and fork tines thoroughly with soapy water.
3. Step 3: Rinse thoroughly to ensure no soap remains.
4. Step 4: Dry immediately to prevent water spots or rust from forming, particularly on knives.

Precaution: Avoid soaking cutlery for too long, especially silverware, as prolonged exposure to water can tarnish it.

How to Clean Cookware?

1. Step 1: Scrape away food scraps and grease.
2. Step 2: Rinse the cookware with warm water.
3. Step 3: For stubborn stains or baked-on food, soak the pan in soapy water for 10-15 minutes before scrubbing with a non-abrasive pad.
4. Step 4: Rinse and dry thoroughly to prevent water spots or rust.

Precaution: Avoid using steel wool or metal scrubbers on non-stick or delicate surfaces as they can ruin the coating.

How Often to Wash Dishes?

To maintain a clean and hygienic kitchen, it’s best to wash dishes after each meal. Leaving dishes unwashed can result in bacteria growth and make food harder to remove later. For cookware and cutlery, immediate washing is recommended to prevent damage and prolong the life of the materials.

Additional Tips on Washing Dishes

• Warm water works wonders: You would be surprised to know that warm water helps dissolve grease and makes food particles easier to clean.
• Use the right tools: Soft sponges are your go-to for delicate dinnerware, while non-abrasive scrubbers are best for cookware.
• Change your dishwater: If your soapy water becomes murky, swap it out for fresh water to ensure your dishes are truly clean.
• Avoid harsh chemicals: Stick to mild dishwashing soaps to protect your dinnerware’s finish.
• Be gentle with hand-painted or delicate items: Treat special pieces like fine China with extra care to maintain their elegance and beauty.

At thinKitchen, we believe in the power of thoughtful care when it comes to preserving your most cherished dinnerware. With our selection of premium kitchen tools and international brands, you can ensure that your washing routine is both efficient and gentle, maintaining the beauty of your dinnerware for years to come.
Whether you're cleaning everyday pieces or special occasion serveware, follow these steps to keep your kitchen collection in impeccable condition.