Does Your Dishwasher Kill Mold? Debunking the Myth

Common belief suggests that dishwashers might not be effective in killing mold, but is that really true? Let's delve into the science and explore whether your dishwasher can safely clean dishes with mold on them, and if it's safe to use your dishes after they have been in the dishwasher.

Myth Busting: Does the Dishwasher Actually Kill Mold?

In a recent scenario, a user discovered mold in a ceramic coffee mug and wondered if putting it in the dishwasher would kill the mold. The question arose: did the dishwasher successfully clean the mug, or did the user risk contaminating the entire set of dishes?

The answer lies in understanding how modern dishwashers operate. Dishwashers are designed to clean dishes, and while mold can be a concern, the high heat and powerful sprays work together to effectively eliminate mold. Let's explore this in greater detail.

High Heat: The Key to Cleaning Mold

The high heat produced by dishwashers is the primary factor in killing mold. Most dishwashers have settings that reach temperatures ranging from 130°F to 150°F (54°C to 65°C). This heat alone is sufficient to kill most mold spores, regardless of their resilience. In fact, these temperatures are far hotter than the water you would normally use for hand washing, making the dishwasher a more effective choice.

Mechanical Action of Sprays

Apart from the heat, the sprays in the dishwasher act as natural scrubbers. The high-pressure sprays can physically remove mold spores from the surface of dishes. The mechanical action of the sprays works synergistically with the heat to ensure that mold is thoroughly cleaned from your dishes.

Secondary Cleaning Process

If you are still concerned about the possibility of mold contamination, you can run the dishwasher again. This additional cycle, sometimes called a rinse aid or sanitizing cycle, ensures that all plates and cutlery are thoroughly cleaned. Additionally, using a premium dish washing detergent and selecting the highest temperature setting available can further enhance the cleaning process.

For those with a dishwasher that has a sanitize cycle, running this cycle is the most effective method. If your dishwasher does not have a sanitize setting, simply select the heavy-load cycle and run the dishwasher twice to ensure the highest level of cleanliness.

No Evidence of Contamination

It's important to understand that the dishwashers do an excellent job of cleaning. There is no evidence of widespread contamination like what was initially feared. Mold, being a widespread organism, is found in many homes, but the dishwasher's cleaning process effectively removes it.

The effectiveness of the dishwasher in killing mold has been supported by scientific studies. In a bacteriology test, high heat and steam for several minutes are shown to be the most effective methods for killing mold spores. Although boiling water or ozone treatments are considered the gold standard, a standard dishwasher, even without a sanitize cycle, provides a high degree of cleanliness.

Preparation and Prevention

For thorough cleaning, hand-washing the mug with baking soda can be an effective method. Baking soda acts as a natural cleaner and deodorizer, helping to remove stubborn mold stains. Once the mug is cleaned by hand, you can re-run the dishwasher to ensure all dishes are clean and safe for use.

Remember, mold found in your home is usually not toxic. It primarily affects the taste and smell of food. However, there are instances where mold can produce mycotoxins, which are harmful. While this is rare, it's still important to exercise caution and ensure that any affected items are thoroughly cleaned.

Conclusion

The dishwasher does an excellent job of cleaning dishes, and mold is no exception. Despite the initial concern about contamination, the combination of heat, sprays, and cleaning cycles in the dishwasher effectively removes mold. Regular use of the dishwasher can help maintain a clean and safe home by eliminating mold from dishes and utensils.

Should you have any lingering doubts, running the dishwasher for an additional cycle or using a premium detergent can provide added assurance. Always prioritize cleanliness and hygiene to maintain a healthy living environment.