Dishwashers—we take them for granted until we move somewhere without one. It seems like every home has one, considering 93% of newly built homes include them. Yet, almost 40% of American kitchens don’t have a Dishwasher. Usually if you hand wash Dishes it isn’t by choice, but some people chose not to use a dishwasher for the benefits of being a minimalist.

It may seem daunting to switch to a hand-washing lifestyle, but follow these guidelines for a smooth transition:

One-Pot Meals

The first step to making your life without a dishwasher easier is simple—dirty less dishes! Save yourself the extra effort of washing multiple bulky pots and pans and  instead cook one-pot meals. Soups, stews, casseroles, pastas, and plenty of other delicious options. Also, limit the amount of cups you use throughout the day; try assigning one designated cup per person.

Soak

Before you begin cooking a meal, fill the Sink with warm soapy water and add things to the water as you go. Measuring cups, utensils, cutting boards, and even large pots can be added to the water. This will help any residue naturally come off of dishes and make for easy cleaning after your meal.

Schedule

Set a schedule for the time you wash your dishes and put them away once they are dry. The best idea is to do it right away, but if that’s not realistic, find what works best for you. No matter when you do it, make it a routine. Soon it will turn into a habit and won’t seem like a chore anymore.

Dry

Invest in drying racks to save time wiping everything down. Hanging racks above the sink work perfectly for large pots and pans, while dish racks on the side of the sink work perfectly for dishes and utensils. Drying mats are an option too, but they are prone to mold growth and need to be washed regularly.

Moisturize

With all the washing you’ll be doing your hands are likely to dry out, especially during the winter months. Buy a dish soap that contains moisturizer/lotion—your hands will thank you. Also, buy a scent that you like to make washing the dishes more enjoyable. When all else fails, using paper plates every once in awhile is an easy alternative for those days that you’re feeling lazy.

Chances are if you don’t have a dishwasher, you also don’t have a Garbage Disposal. Without a garbage disposal, debris is likely to get stuck in your drain and cause a clog. When a clogged drain forms in your kitchen sink, call Benjamin Franklin Plumbing. Our technicians are trained in drain cleaning; there is no clog too tough or too large for our Punctual Plumbers to handle. Contact us today.

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