How to Clean and Sterilize Plates and Silverware

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Things You'll Need

  • Hydrogen peroxide

  • Water

  • Large pan

  • Dishwashing liquid

  • Clean cloth(s)

Sterilizing dishes can be done with hydrogen peroxide, which is available at many stores.

Cleaning dishes and silverware is commonly done with a dishwasher or washing items by hand using dishwashing liquid and warm water. While this method will clean the dishes, it doesn't actually sterilize the dishes. To clean and sterilize dishes and silverware, you need to take some additional steps; these steps should only be done by adults due to the use of chemicals that may be harmful if ingested.

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Step 1

Fill a large pan or kitchen sink with 1 oz. hydrogen peroxide and 1 gallon of hot water.

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Step 2

Set the dishes and silverware in the hydrogen peroxide mixture and allow them to sit for 30 minutes.

Step 3

Remove the dishes and silverware from the hydrogen peroxide. Drain or discard the hydrogen peroxide.

Step 4

Wash the dishes and silverware with hot water and dishwashing liquid to complete the cleaning process and remove any remaining hydrogen peroxide.

Step 5

Air dry the utensils and dishes.

Tip

Many dishwashers have a sterilizing wash cycle, which can be used to sterilize dishes and silverware.

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