The Dirty Dishes Dilemma

Using the dishwasher will save loads of water but importantly, it will save you time.

Dishwashers are energy efficient and disinfect the dishes every time. Malikov Aleksandr/Shutterstock

As you might imagine, I get a lot of mail. And since I could never respond to all of your letters, questions, and comments individually, I love to reach into the mailbag, selecting some of your letters to answer right here.

Dear Cheapskate: Is it cheaper to wash dishes by hand since I wash most of my pots and pans by hand anyway, or use the dishwasher? Thanks.—Audrey