Does Dishwasher Kill Norovirus? The Surprising Truth Revealed!
Most dishwashers may not kill norovirus effectively as they typically do not reach the necessary temperatures (over 60°C/140°F) for a sufficient duration to inactivate the virus. Use a disinfectant with EPA registration for norovirus or increase heat settings for better results.
Dishwasher Effectiveness Against Norovirus
Understanding Norovirus
Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the stomach and intestines. This leads to stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting.
Norovirus is known for its resilience; it can survive on surfaces for days or weeks and is not easily killed by some disinfectants or mild heat.
Survival Conditions of Norovirus
Norovirus can withstand a variety of environments. It remains infectious in temperatures as low as freezing and as high as 140°F. It can also persist in both freshwater and saltwater. This adaptability makes it tough to eliminate.
Impact of Standard Dishwasher Settings
Most home dishwashers have standard settings that reach temperatures between 130°F to 150°F. While these settings can clean and sanitize dishes, they may not always reach the high temperatures needed to inactivate norovirus effectively.
Factors Influencing Dishwasher’s Norovirus Elimination
The dishwasher’s ability to kill norovirus depends on factors like temperature, detergent type, and cycle length. Higher temperatures, strong detergents, and longer cycles increase the chances of killing the virus.
The Role of Temperature and Detergent in Disinfection
High Temperatures and Viral Inactivation
High temperatures are critical for killing viruses. Heat disrupts the viral structure and renders it non-infectious. For this reason, using a dishwasher with a sanitizing cycle that reaches high temperatures can be effective against norovirus.
Optimal Temperature Settings
To kill norovirus, a temperature setting over 140°F for a sustained period is recommended. The longer the exposure to high temperatures, the better the chances of eliminating the virus.
Choosing the Right Dishwasher Detergent
Not all dishwasher detergents are equal in fighting viruses. Some contain ingredients more effective at breaking down the virus’s protective outer layer. Look for detergents with specific anti-viral properties.
Detergent Chemical Properties
Detergents often contain surfactants that can penetrate the virus’s protective layer, leading to its breakdown. The use of a strong detergent, combined with high temperatures, enhances the disinfection process.
Best Practices for Using a Dishwasher to Combat Norovirus
Effective Pre-washing and Rinsing
Before loading dishes into the dishwasher, pre-wash or rinse them to remove food particles and reduce the viral load. This makes it easier for the dishwasher to effectively kill the remaining virus.
Selecting the Correct Dishwasher Cycle
Choose a dishwasher cycle with the highest heat setting and a longer duration. This ensures a greater likelihood of reaching temperatures capable of inactivating norovirus.
Maintaining Your Dishwasher
Regular maintenance of your dishwasher is essential for its effectiveness. Check and clean the filters, ensure the heating element is working, and use rinse aids to improve the cleaning process.
Extra Steps for Households with Norovirus
If someone in your home has norovirus, take additional precautions such as using disposable dishes, increasing dishwasher temperatures, and cleaning the machine after use.
Alternatives to Dishwashing
When a dishwasher is not available or suitable, consider alternatives such as hand washing with hot, soapy water followed by a bleach solution, or using disposable plates and utensils.
FAQs About Dishwasher Efficacy Against Norovirus
Does a standard dishwasher cycle kill norovirus?
Most standard dishwasher cycles may not kill norovirus, as they do not typically reach temperatures over 60°C/140°F for a long enough duration to inactivate the virus.
What temperature should my dishwasher reach to kill norovirus?
Your dishwasher should reach temperatures over 60°C/140°F and maintain that temperature for a sufficient duration to effectively kill norovirus.
Can I use a disinfectant in my dishwasher to kill norovirus?
Yes, you can use a disinfectant with an EPA registration for norovirus in your dishwasher to help inactivate the virus.
How can I increase my dishwasher’s effectiveness against norovirus?
Increase the heat settings on your dishwasher if possible, or use a norovirus-effective disinfectant to improve its effectiveness against the virus.
Is hand washing dishes more effective at killing norovirus than using a dishwasher?
Hand washing dishes with hot water and an appropriate disinfectant can be more effective at killing norovirus if you can ensure the water is sufficiently hot and the dishes are properly disinfected.
Final Thoughts
Most dishwashers may not effectively eliminate norovirus, falling short of the requisite temperatures over 60°C/140°F needed for deactivation.
To ensure the virus is killed, it’s recommended to use a disinfectant that is EPA-registered against norovirus or to adjust the dishwasher to higher heat settings that are more likely to inactivate the virus.
