“Is Your Dishwasher Hiding a Health Hazard? Discover the 11 Shocking Ways It Could Make You Sick!”
Dishwashers contain the perfect moisture and humidity for fungi to grow. Fungi can survive in extreme conditions, which makes it hard to deal with. Studies emphasize routine cleaning and maintenance to minimize infection risks associated with fungi.
5. Biofilm Formation
Biofilm is a slimy layer made up of bacteria, fungi, and algae that sticks to surfaces in wet places. In dishwashers, it can form on parts like filters, spray arms, and door seals if they are not cleaned regularly.
It can be a problem because biofilm can trap harmful bacteria, making them tough to remove during normal cleaning. This means your dishes could get contaminated, increasing the risk of foodborne illnesses.
6. Inadequate Temperature
Different bacteria, especially the pathogenic ones, are effectively killed by heat for sterilization. It is a matter of time and temperature. Some bacteria may not be killed by soap but will likely be killed by the heat of water, given enough time in the washer.
According to the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF), residential dishwashers must reach at least 150°F in the final rinse and achieve a 99.999% reduction in bacteria on a sanitizing cycle. For commercial dishwashers, stationary units must hit 165°F, while others need 180°F to meet sanitization standards.
7. Communal Dishwashers
Sharing dishwashers in shared living spaces can lead to health risks by spreading germs. When lots of people use the same appliance without good hygiene, bacteria and viruses can easily transfer between dishes, which could cause foodborne illnesses.
