Jason Tetro, a microbiologist at the University of Toronto, Canada, states that kitchen sinks are a hub for large quantities of bacteria, particularly E. coli and Salmonella, especially after preparing raw meats like chicken or beef.

According to Tetro, the moist environment combined with leftover food creates ideal conditions for bacteria to multiply. Soaking dishes overnight inadvertently provides more time and a place for them to thrive, increasing the risk of cross-contamination to other surfaces in the kitchen.

Echoing this view, Associate Professor Brian Labus from the School of Public Health at the University of Nevada, US, affirms that bacteria highly favor warm and moist environments. "Soaking dishes in a basin of dirty water is far riskier than letting them air dry naturally," Labus says. While a dry sink is not entirely sterile, stagnant water and food left exposed overnight will certainly attract disease-carrying insects.

Experts emphasize that no duration for soaking dishes is considered absolutely safe. Dishes should be washed as soon as possible after eating.

For safe cleaning, experts recommend:

Prioritize the dishwasher: The machine's hot water and drying cycles effectively sanitize pots, pans, and dishes.

Proper handwashing: For items unsuitable for dishwashers (such as crystal glasses or wooden cutting boards), wash them immediately with hot, soapy water and allow them to dry completely before storing.

Sanitize cleaning tools: Dish sponges should be cleaned regularly or replaced frequently to prevent bacterial accumulation.

If prolonged soaking is unavoidable for stubborn stains, thoroughly clean the sink immediately afterward. Use hot soapy water, followed by a disinfectant solution to sanitize the surface and prevent lingering bacteria.

Ngoc Ngan (Via RD)