Manual Washing or Dishwasher? This Is How to Decide What's Best for You

In every kitchen, the question arises: is it better to use a dishwasher or wash dishes by hand? Each method has advantages and disadvantages, and the right choice depends on your needs, preferences, and lifestyle. Here's a review to help you decide what suits you better.

Dishwasher: Advantages

Water Saving

A modern dishwasher uses less water than manual washing. Most advanced dishwashers use about 10-12 liters per full wash cycle, compared to manual washing that can reach 30 liters or more.

Time Saving

Loading the dishwasher takes only a few minutes, freeing you up to do other things while the dishes are being cleaned.

Thorough Cleaning

Dishwashers use very hot water, which helps sanitize the dishes and effectively clean stubborn grease and dirt.

Convenience

The dishwasher reduces the need for prolonged standing by the sink—a great advantage especially for those suffering from back pain or fatigue.

Electricity Savings in Some Cases

In energy-efficient dishwashers, electricity costs are relatively lower compared to using hot water for prolonged manual washing.

(Photo: shutterstock)

Dishwasher: Disadvantages

Initial and Operating Costs

A dishwasher requires a high initial investment, and sometimes ongoing maintenance like repairs and part replacements.

Waiting Time

The dishwasher is more efficient when it's full, which means you might need to wait until enough dishes accumulate for a wash cycle.

Not Suitable for All Dishes

There are delicate items like crystal glasses or special-coated dishes that aren’t suitable for the dishwasher.

Dishwasher Arrangement and Cleaning Requirement

Arranging the dishes neatly and cleaning the dishwasher itself can be slightly cumbersome tasks.

Manual Washing: Advantages

Immediate Availability

No need to wait – dishes can be washed immediately after use and dried.

Suitable for All Types of Dishes

You can safely wash delicate dishes, heavy pots, or particularly large items that don’t fit in the dishwasher.

Space Saving in the Kitchen

Manual washing does not require an additional appliance, which can be important in small kitchens.

Energy Saving

There is no electricity consumption, which might appeal to people seeking more energy-efficient solutions.

(Photo: shutterstock)

Manual Washing: Disadvantages

High Water Consumption

Manual washing, especially if the water runs continuously, consumes a larger amount of water than a dishwasher.

Physical Effort

Manual dishwashing requires time and effort, especially after large meals or hosting.

Less Hygienic

At regular sink water temperatures, it's harder to sanitize dishes thoroughly compared to the temperatures a dishwasher reaches.

Effect on Skin

Prolonged dishwashing can dry out the skin, especially when using hot water and strong soap.

So, Which Is Better?

For Big Cooks or Families:A dishwasher is more suitable for those who cook a lot or manage a large household where dishes accumulate quickly.

For Those with Small Kitchens or Few Dishes: Manual washing might be a more practical solution.

For Those Seeking Water Savings: An efficient dishwasher will be the right choice.

For Those Preferring Immediate Solutions:Manual washing will fit, especially in cases of few dishes.

The best solution? A combination of both methods: use the dishwasher when there are a lot of dishes, and keep manual washing for unique items that require special care.