Dishwasher vs Hand Washing: Which Method Is Better for the Planet and Your Wallet?

Choosing between using a dishwasher and hand-washing dishes isn't just about convenience. It also affects our planet and your bills. Dishwashers today are very efficient. Their water consumption is a lot less than hand washing. Come to think of it, the dishwasher saves you money and helps the environment. Hand washing requires lots of water and it's a lot of work and not as effective in saving resources.

I've got a blog post on how to wash dishes by hand using least amount of water.

How Does a Dishwasher Compare to Hand Washing?

Dishwashers are designed to make cleaning dishes easier and more efficient. You don't need to pre-rinse your dishes because the dishwasher does an initial rinse for you. Some efficient dishwashers even save water from the last rinse to use in the first rinse of the next load, making them even more water-efficient. This clever reuse of water helps save even more, making dishwashers a smart choice for your home.

Dishwashers typically use about 6 to 19 litres of water per cycle. This water efficiency is possible because they handle the initial rinse and adjust their cleaning based on the settings on the dishwasher. By saving water in each cycle, dishwashers help you reduce your water usage, which is good for both the planet and your wallet. When compared to hand washing, dishwashers tend to use water and energy more wisely, making them an eco-friendly and cost-effective option.

Water Per Load: Washing by hand vs Dishwasher

Hand washing dishes consumes more water than you might think. To wash the same amount of dishes as a full dishwasher, you'd use a lot more water. Hand washing can use up to 100 litres! That's a big difference compared to the 6 - 19 litres. 

Water and Electricity Savings with New Dishwashers

With today's technology, modern dishwashers are not just about cleaning your dishes. They come with different settings that make it possible that you're saving water and be energy efficient at the same time. They can even detect how dirty your dishes are and know the precise settings to clean them efficiently.

Did you know that using the eco setting on your dishwasher can cut down on how much water and power it uses? 

Dishwashers are better for environment

Choosing between buying a new dishwasher or cute sink accessories can be tough. However, if reducing energy use, is your goal, a dishwasher might be the way to go. It uses less water and energy compared to hand washing. Plus, using our dishwashing sheets as a detergent makes it a double win! It's good for the planet and your pocket.

How much does it cost to run the dishwasher?

Here is the updated cost breakdown for running a dishwasher on eco mode in Australia, including the cost of using Lucent Globe dishwasher sheets:

Calculation based on Canstarblue.com - Dishwasher running costs and our Dishwashing Detergent sheets.

Benefits of Using Lucent Globe Dishwashing Sheets

Lucent Globe dishwashing detergent sheets are an excellent choice for several compelling reasons. Firstly, they are made without harsh chemicals and packaged in plastic-free materials, reducing environmental impact.

These sheets are incredibly convenient, as they come pre-measured, eliminating the guesswork and mess associated with traditional detergents. They also provide strong cleaning power, ensuring dishes come out sparkling clean. Furthermore, Lucent Globe dishwasher sheets are cost-effective due to their efficient use of water and energy, particularly when used in eco mode.

Here are the key benefits:

• Kinder to environment: No harsh chemicals and plastic-free packaging.
• Convenient: Pre-measured and easy to use.
• Effective: Strong cleaning power for sparkling dishes.
• Cost-Effective: Efficient water and energy usage, especially in eco mode.

How do dishwashers contribute to better sanitation compared to hand washing?

Dishwashers contribute to better sanitation compared to hand washing primarily due to the high temperatures they can achieve. Most modern dishwashers heat water to temperatures between 60°C to 75°C (140°F to 167°F), which is significantly higher than what human hands can tolerate during manual dishwashing. These high temperatures effectively kill bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens that may be present on dishes. In contrast, hand washing typically uses water at much lower temperatures, which is less effective at sanitising. Additionally, dishwashers often include a final high-heat drying cycle, further ensuring that any remaining microorganisms are eliminated.

What else can we do to be more eco-friendly during dishwashing?

To maximise eco-friendliness, consider the following tips when using the dishwasher:

• Use Eco Mode: Always opt for the eco or energy-saving settings on your dishwasher. These modes use less water and energy, making them the most efficient choice.
• Fully Load the Dishwasher: Run your dishwasher only when it's fully loaded to ensure maximum efficiency in water and energy use.
• Choose  Phosphate Free Detergent: Use products like Lucent Globe dishwasher sheets that are free of harsh chemicals and come in plastic-free packaging.
• Regular Maintenance: Keep your dishwasher in top working condition by regularly cleaning the filter and checking for any clogs or leaks. A well-maintained dishwasher runs more efficiently and uses less energy.
• Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient Model: If your dishwasher is old, consider upgrading to a new, energy-efficient model. Look for ENERGY STAR-rated appliances that meet high standards for energy and water efficiency.

 Reduce your overall environmental footprint, contributing to a more sustainable lifestyle.