How To Conserve Energy: Kitchen Edition #5 (washing dishes part 1)

Most people have dishwashers; I however do not. I'm writing this post for you guys! Here are some tips and tricks to conserve your own energy while using this handy machine.

TIP #1: No twisting.

I may not have a dishwasher of my own but I have witnessed people using them and have helped unload/load them as well. One of the things that I've noticed is that when people go to grab something out of the dishwasher they will rotate or twist their bodies, often in a bent over position, while still keeping their feet pointed forwards. It tends to be a recipe for back strain! Practice rotating at the hip and moving your feet to face the direction that you are going towards (for instance rotating and pointing feet towards cupboard where dishes are being put away).

TIP #2: Squat down.

When you lean down to get an object out of the dishwasher make sure that you bend your hips and your knees while using your hips and your quads to lift. Keep your back straight. The opposite of this would look like arching your back as you lean over and then just unrolling your spine while coming to an upright position with the object in hand.

TIP #3: Unload the bottom rack first.

Unloading the top rack first sends any pooled water onto the dishes on the bottom rack. To avoid this and the extra energy expended from having to dry everything, always empty the bottom rack first.

These tips are brought to you by observations but one day I hope to put them into actual practice!