Time-saving and sustainable: why using a dishwasher can be more eco-friendly than washing by hand
When it comes to sustainability, it’s easy to think that the option that is kindest to the planet requires more time and effort. But when it comes to washing our dirty dishes, research has shown that a dishwasher cycle can actually be more eco-friendly than hand washing in the sink!
Saving both time and water-consumption, leading consumer organisation Which? has found that dishwashers are, on average, four times more water efficient than washing by hand per place setting. And what’s more, an average full-size dishwasher can use up to seven times less water – with 2.2 litres of water used per wash compared to up to nine litres when hand washing.
This revelation means that doing our bit to be more sustainable is also easier on our bank balances as water bills are reduced, which is hugely important during the current cost-of-living crisis.
To mark our sustainable Dishwasher Tablets securing a Which? Eco Buy endorsement, we’ve put together a list of its top tips to help you create both a time-efficient and energy-efficient dish washing routine.
Top tips for making the most of your dishwasher:
- Rather than rinsing plates before putting in the dishwasher, scrape any food residue into your food waste bin. Plus, many dishwashers have a pre-rinse in their cycles that does the job for you.
- Wait until the dishwasher is full to run – even a half-load can use as much as 90% of the water and energy of a full wash.
- Take care of your dishwasher to prolong its life and get more out of each cycle – remember to clean regularly, descale, and unclog the filter.
- Load your dishwasher properly to avoid having to wash items twice – a well-organised load will result in a more thorough clean as the water can get to where it needs to.
- For example, put the dirtiest pots on the bottom shelf as this is where the water is hotter and more powerful.
- Consider where you place your dishwasher – putting your dishwasher next to your fridge will make the fridge work harder due to the heat coming off the dishwasher.
- Choose the time you start your cycle carefully – using your dishwasher during off-peak utility hours can save both energy and money! Later in the evening is often best.
- Most modern dishwashers have an ‘eco’ mode which can use up to 20% less energy than standard settings. Eco mode works by lowering the wash and rinse temperatures during the cycle, resulting in less energy spent on heating the water.
- Skipping the drying cycle and leaving the door open for dishes to dry can also save energy.
Our Dishwasher Tablets secured full marks from Which? for their eco-credentials, for both the packaging used and sustainable ingredients. The only brand of dishwasher tablets tested to secure the Eco Buy endorsement, the tablets are just 12g in size – resulting in carbon emissions savings in both production and transportation.
Shop our Dishwasher Tablets here.
