About National Dishwasher Appreciation Day
On March 9th each year, we take a moment to pause our busy lives and give a silent (or not-so-silent) thank you to one of the most hardworking appliances in our homes: the dishwasher! It’s National Dishwasher Appreciation Day, and it’s a perfect time to celebrate the unsung hero that saves us from one of the most-hated household chores.
Think about it—how much time and effort does your dishwasher save you every single week? This day is all about recognizing that convenience and giving a nod to the brilliant innovation that brought this machine into our kitchens.
National Dishwasher Appreciation Day
The spirit of National Dishwasher Appreciation Day is twofold: celebrating the machine itself and honoring the people who have made its use possible. Whether it’s the appliance humming quietly under your counter or the family member who consistently tackles the post-dinner cleanup, this day is for acknowledging the relief that comes from not having to stand at the sink scrubbing pots and plates.
The humble dishwasher represents a significant advancement in home convenience and cleanliness. Since it typically uses less water than washing dishes by hand and sanitizes at higher temperatures, it’s a win for both efficiency and hygiene. So, let’s show our gratitude for this everyday marvel!
How to Celebrate National Dishwasher Appreciation Day
Ready to get involved? Celebrating this day is simple and can be a fun way to treat your appliance, your home, and yourself! Here are a few ways you can observe the day:
Treat your dishwasher to some TLC. It works hard for you, so give it a good, deep clean! Scrub the interior, clear out the filter (it’s probably due!), and run a cleaning cycle with a dishwasher cleaner or a cup of vinegar on the top rack.
Learn about the inventor. The modern dishwasher was invented by a brilliant woman named Josephine Cochrane. Take a few minutes to read up on her story and share it with your family or friends.
Commit to proper loading. Give your machine a break by making sure everything is loaded correctly to maximize water spray and capacity. A well-loaded dishwasher is a happy dishwasher!
Don't pre-rinse everything. Modern dishwashers are designed to handle food particles, so scraping off large debris is usually enough. You’ll save water by skipping the rinse step.
Give the "human dishwasher" a break. If you have a family member who usually does the loading and unloading, volunteer to take over for the day as a sign of appreciation!
The Fascinating History of the Dishwasher
While an early, hand-cranked dishwashing device was first patented in 1850, the person we truly have to thank for the modern machine is Josephine Cochrane. As a wealthy socialite in Illinois in the late 1800s, she was constantly frustrated that her servants were chipping her prized antique china while handwashing. She famously declared, “If nobody else is going to invent a dishwashing machine, I’ll do it myself!”
Josephine invented a machine that used water pressure to clean the dishes, a much gentler method than the scrubbers of earlier attempts. She measured her dishes, created wire compartments to hold them safely in place, and used a motor to spin a wheel that sprayed hot, soapy water. She patented her design in 1886 and debuted it at the 1893 World's Fair in Chicago. Initially, it was a hit in commercial settings like hotels and restaurants due to its size and cost, but by the 1950s and 1960s, it had become a common and affordable household appliance, revolutionizing domestic life forever.
Did you know? Josephine Cochrane's company was eventually acquired by the Hobart Manufacturing Company, which later became the foundation for the appliance brand KitchenAid!
Did you know? Dishwashers weren't a common sight in American homes until the post-World War II economic boom of the 1950s, when they became smaller, more practical, and more affordable for the average family.
Did you know? Most modern dishwashers are significantly more water efficient than washing dishes by hand, especially if you leave the water running!
If you're interested in a more in-depth look at the life of the incredible woman who invented this indispensable appliance, check out this video that highlights the life and achievements of Josephine Cochran and her groundbreaking invention:
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