Your dishwasher could be harboring some pretty unpleasant germs (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
As we’re now in the midst of the season, many households find themselves busier than usual with dinner parties, gatherings and movie nights being a common occurrence in December.
This increased activity often results in a higher reliance on to handle the growing mountain of dirty dishes and glasses – after all, no one wants to spend their Christmas washing up.
However, what many may not realise is that these staples could be harbouring an unpleasant secret.
Studies have shown that if not properly maintained, dishwashers can become breeding grounds for harmful bacteria such as E.coli and Salmonella, posing unexpected health risks this .
Kitchen and bathroom appliance specialists at caution that the warm, humid conditions combined with leftover food particles create an ideal environment for bacterial growth.
The popular appliance gets used a lot during the busy festive period (Image: Getty Images/Maskot)
With many UK homes neglecting simple maintenance routines, your dishwasher could transform from a cleaning aid to a potential hazard.
During the colder months, we tend to cook more hearty meals and use our dishwashers more frequently, reports .
While it’s easy to assume that the high temperatures and detergents would kill off any bacteria, research suggests otherwise. One discovered that dishwashers can provide the perfect conditions for harmful microbes like E.coli, Salmonella, and black yeast to flourish.
Don’t miss… [UPDATE]
Pathogens can lurk in the seals, filters, and water reservoirs of dishwashers, particularly when food remnants are not cleaned away. The machine’s warm and moist interior, exacerbated by reduced ventilation in winter months, creates an ideal environment for bacteria to flourish.
If your dishwasher becomes a haven for bacteria or mould, these nasties can be transferred onto your “clean” dishes and cutlery, potentially causing gastrointestinal issues, respiratory conditions, or skin infections.
This is especially dangerous for individuals with compromised immune systems, as well as young children and the elderly, making it imperative to take action.
Cleaning your dishwasher regularly will help to banish any nasty germs (Image: Getty)
How to keep your dishwasher safe
Clean the filter regularly
The filter is where food debris accumulates, creating a breeding ground for bacteria. Remove and rinse the filter weekly, scrubbing it with warm soapy water to ensure it’s free of residue.
Run a hot water or vinegar cycle
Once a month, run an empty cycle with a cup of white vinegar placed on the top rack. This helps to eliminate odours and break down limescale and grease. Alternatively, use a dishwasher cleaning solution specifically designed for this purpose.
Scrub the seals and crevices
The rubber seals around your dishwasher door can trap moisture and grime. Use a toothbrush or a cloth with soapy water to clean these areas thoroughly.
Don’t overload the dishwasher
Overloading prevents water from reaching all areas of your dishes and can lead to food residue being left behind, which contributes to bacterial growth.
Dry it out
After each cycle, leave the dishwasher door ajar to allow moisture to escape. This prevents the humid conditions that bacteria love.
Replace worn parts
If seals, filters, or other components are damaged or no longer functioning properly, they can contribute to bacterial growth.