Which Stains on Dishes Should Be Washed with Cold or Hot Water?

Ever wondered which water temperature is best for washing different stains on dishes? The choice between cold and hot water can significantly impact the effectiveness of your dishwashing. Here’s a guide to help you choose the right water temperature for various types of stains.

Stains Best Washed with Cold Water

Using cold water for dishwashing can prevent certain stains from setting and becoming difficult to remove, especially those caused by proteins and starches. Hot water can cause these stains to harden and stick even more.

Protein Stains

Protein stains, such as egg, milk, or meat stains, can harden and adhere more strongly to surfaces when exposed to hot water. This is because proteins undergo denaturation when they come into contact with hot water. Therefore, cleaning these stains with cold water will make it easier to remove them effectively.

Starch Stains

Starch stains, such as rice, flour, or sauces, can be cleaned easily with cold water. Cold water prevents starch from becoming sticky and adhering to dishes. Scientifically speaking, cold water prevents the gelatinisation process in starch, which makes it sticky when exposed to hot water.

Stains Best Washed with Hot Water

Using hot water for dishwashing can effectively remove stains, especially those that are greasy or sugary.

Grease Stains

Grease stains, such as oil, butter, or fatty sauces, can be easily cleaned with hot water. The heat from the hot water increases the movement of fat molecules, helping to dissolve and disperse the grease in the water. This makes dishwashing liquids work more effectively.

Sugar Stains

Sugar stains, including sweet sauces or dessert residues, can be cleaned effectively with hot water. Hot water helps dissolve sugar molecules, preventing them from sticking to the surface of dishes and making them easier to wash away.

Dishwashing doesn't have to be difficult if you know how to choose an effective dishwashing liquid and use the right water temperature for different types of stains on dishes. These tips will help make dishwashing easier and more thorough. Try following our recommendations, and you'll find that dishwashing becomes easier and more enjoyable than ever.

Happy cleaning!