Dish soap as a sanitizer: fact or fiction? get the real scoop
What To Know
- Dish soap is effective at removing dirt and grease from dishes, but it is not a disinfectant.
- Dish soap does not kill bacteria or viruses, so it is not a sanitizer.
- There are a variety of ways to sanitize dishes, including using a sanitizer, boiling water, a dishwasher, or a microwave.
The answer to the question of whether dish soap sanitizes is not a simple yes or no. Dish soap is effective at removing dirt and grease from dishes, but it is not a disinfectant. This means that it does not kill bacteria or viruses.
What is a Sanitizer?
A sanitizer is a substance that kills bacteria and viruses. Sanitizers are typically used on surfaces that are likely to come into contact with food or people. Common sanitizers include bleach, alcohol, and quaternary ammonium compounds.
How Does Dish Soap Work?
Dish soap works by breaking down the bonds that hold dirt and grease to dishes. This allows the dirt and grease to be washed away with water. Dish soap does not kill bacteria or viruses, so it is not a sanitizer.
When to Use Dish Soap
Dish soap should be used to clean dishes that are not heavily soiled. For dishes that are heavily soiled, a sanitizer should be used in addition to dish soap.
When to Use a Sanitizer
A sanitizer should be used on surfaces that are likely to come into contact with food or people. This includes surfaces such as countertops, cutting boards, and doorknobs.
How to Use a Sanitizer
Sanitizers should be used according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Some sanitizers require a specific contact time to be effective. It is important to follow the instructions carefully to ensure that the sanitizer is effective.
Other Ways to Sanitize Dishes
In addition to using a sanitizer, there are other ways to sanitize dishes. These methods include:
- Boiling water: Boiling water kills bacteria and viruses. Dishes can be sanitized by boiling them in water for at least 1 minute.
- Dishwasher: Dishwashers use hot water and detergent to sanitize dishes. Dishes should be washed in a dishwasher that has a sanitizing cycle.
- Microwave: Microwaves can be used to sanitize dishes. Dishes should be microwaved on high for at least 1 minute.
Key Points
Dish soap is not a sanitizer. It is effective at removing dirt and grease from dishes, but it does not kill bacteria or viruses. A sanitizer should be used on surfaces that are likely to come into contact with food or people. There are a variety of ways to sanitize dishes, including using a sanitizer, boiling water, a dishwasher, or a microwave.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: Can I use dish soap to clean my hands?
A: No, dish soap is not a hand soap. It is not effective at killing bacteria and viruses, and it can be irritating to the skin.
Q: Can I use dish soap to clean my countertops?
A: Yes, dish soap can be used to clean countertops. However, it is not a sanitizer. A sanitizer should be used to disinfect countertops after they have been cleaned with dish soap.
Q: Can I use dish soap to clean my fruits and vegetables?
A: Yes, dish soap can be used to clean fruits and vegetables. However, it is important to rinse the fruits and vegetables thoroughly with water after washing them with dish soap.