Do you put soap in dishwasher when sanitizing? This is a common question that many homeowners often ask. The answer to this question can vary depending on the type of dishwasher and the specific cleaning cycle you are using. In this article, we will explore the best practices for using soap in a dishwasher during the sanitizing cycle to ensure your dishes are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized.
Firstly, it’s important to understand the difference between a regular wash cycle and a sanitizing cycle. A regular wash cycle is designed to clean your dishes using detergent and hot water, while a sanitizing cycle is specifically designed to kill bacteria and germs on your dishes. The sanitizing cycle typically uses a higher temperature and a different cleaning agent to achieve this goal.
When it comes to using soap in a dishwasher during the sanitizing cycle, it is generally recommended to use a dedicated sanitizing detergent. These detergents are formulated to work effectively at higher temperatures and can kill a wider range of bacteria and germs. Using regular detergent during the sanitizing cycle may not be as effective, as it may not be designed to work at the higher temperatures required for sanitization.
However, if you only have regular detergent on hand and need to use it during the sanitizing cycle, it is still possible to achieve a certain level of sanitization. Just be aware that the effectiveness may not be as high as using a dedicated sanitizing detergent. In this case, it’s important to load your dishwasher properly and ensure that the water temperature is set to the highest possible setting for your dishwasher model.
Additionally, it’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific dishwasher model. Different dishwashers may have different recommendations for using soap during the sanitizing cycle. Some dishwashers may require you to use a specific amount of detergent, while others may have a dedicated sanitizing cycle that does not require additional soap.
Lastly, it’s worth noting that while using soap during the sanitizing cycle can help kill bacteria and germs, it is not a substitute for proper handwashing and food safety practices. Always wash your hands before and after handling food, and ensure that your dishes are thoroughly dried before using them.
In conclusion, whether or not you put soap in the dishwasher when sanitizing depends on the type of detergent you’re using and your dishwasher’s specific settings. While using a dedicated sanitizing detergent is the best option, regular detergent can still be used in a pinch. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and load your dishwasher properly to ensure your dishes are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized.
