What to Do With My Dirty Dishes?

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Discussion Overview

This thread explores various methods participants use to manage dirty dishes during and after cooking demonstrations. Participants share their personal experiences and preferences regarding containers and techniques for handling dishes efficiently.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, uses large Pampered Chef shopping bags for dirty dishes but finds it cumbersome.
  • Several participants mention bringing Rubbermaid tubs to collect dirty dishes during demonstrations.
  • Another participant shares their experience of using plastic grocery bags and asking hosts for extras if needed.
  • One participant describes using a plastic "drawer" from Office Max to hold dirty dishes, which they find convenient.
  • Another participant mentions washing dishes at the host's house and offering a free gift to anyone who helps with the task.
  • Some participants express a preference for using pillowcases to transport dirty dishes, citing their durability compared to trash bags.
  • One participant notes that they wash what they can during the demonstration, utilizing the host's sink when available.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the best method for managing dirty dishes, with no clear consensus emerging on a single preferred approach.

Contextual Notes

Participants share a variety of personal strategies based on their experiences in different demonstration settings, highlighting the practical challenges they face.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for ideas on managing dirty dishes during cooking demonstrations may find the shared experiences helpful.

redsoxgirl
redsoxgirl
Messages
1,484
I use the large PC shopping bags for dirty dishes when I have extras, but other than that I have no idea what to do that's not combersome (luckily I haven't run our yet!)

What do you guys do?
 
I bring a rubbermaid tub.
 
me too. and as i finish demo-ing a tool in it goes
 
Yup! Rubbermaid tub for me as well!
 
I bring plastic grocery bags, and if I forget to bring some, I just ask the host for a few. I don't usually need more than 3. I don't want to bring an extra tub for dirties. I can pretty much repack my tote the same way with the dirties in the plastic bags.
 
Same thing here....
 
ChefBeckyD said:
I bring a rubbermaid tub.
Click to expand...
Yep! Me too. It sits right under my demo table or near the counter and I drop the dirty dishes in as I go. I let the guests know that if they want to see a tool I've used to just let me know and I'll fish it out for them.
It is one of the best things I have done for my business. I wash everything, put it all back in the tub and then reload my kit. I never forget a tool this way!!
 
I think I'm going to have to get a tub for this! I like the grocery bag idea, but I'm going to be buying the reusable grocery bags, so my store of plastic bags will dwindle and disappear.
 
jenniferp417 said:
I think I'm going to have to get a tub for this! I like the grocery bag idea, but I'm going to be buying the reusable grocery bags, so my store of plastic bags will dwindle and disappear.
Click to expand...

I just bought a bunch of the reuseable ones from Meijers - they are great!
 
jenniferp417 said:
I think I'm going to have to get a tub for this! I like the grocery bag idea, but I'm going to be buying the reusable grocery bags, so my store of plastic bags will dwindle and disappear.
Click to expand...
Yes, I was thinking the same thing. I've purchased five reusable bags, but the plastic bags keep coming into my house, anyway. I do dislike them so.
 
ChefBeckyD said:
I just bought a bunch of the reuseable ones from Meijers - they are great!
Click to expand...

Yeah, I bought two a couple of months ago. So far, I have yet to remember to bring them with me to the store!! They make a pretty good diaper bag though!
 
I leave the bags in my car. It's annoying because they are in the way, but it's worth it.
 
I have a plastic "drawer" from Office Max. My Director uses this ON TOP of her demo table (puts the drawer on the table with the opening to the side, and puts her cutting board right on top of it) this helps if you are using a "card table height" table by making your cutting board higher.

I actually bought a larger one than she uses, so it's just tall enough for the large batter bowl or the medium stainless bowl to fit in there when they are dirty, and it will fit our large grooved cutting board. Since mine is so much bigger than hers (hers only fits the medium size cutting board in there and isn't tall enough for the batter bowls) I keep mine on the floor under my table and drop stuff in there as I am using it. I always mention that I can pull out any tool that someone would like to look at after the show!
 
Oh, I like the file drawer idea, Kelly! :)
 
It's not as deep as a file drawer...let me see if I can find a picture...
 
Here is the link for mine:
http://www.officemax.com/omax/catalog/sku.jsp?skuId=03113348&searchString=plastic+drawer&productId=ARS19407
 
I use a trash bag
 
Kelly love the draw---I put everything in my batter bowl pop it in the sink----and wash them or someone does I don't really have many dishes in the end----maybe 10----I also keep a soapy microfiber towel on the table and clean as I go----
 
I do a no demo show so I make the recipe before the show and wash them all before it starts.
 
I use a rubber maid tub
 
I use the tote as well.

BEFORE the show the tub contains all my paperwork, pens, special flyer, folders, hostess packets.

After these items are put on a table, it is empty.

DURING the show, each item I use goes into the tub afteward. Small items first to get them out of the way. If I plan to use an item again, it stays on the table.

AFTER the show, the leftover paper goes back in the PC tote and the dirty dishes go home. After I load the dishes into the dishwasher, I clean and dry the tote. It is now ready to hold paperwork for the next show.
 
Di_Can_Cook said:
I use the tote as well.

BEFORE the show the tub contains all my paperwork, pens, special flyer, folders, hostess packets.

After these items are put on a table, it is empty.

DURING the show, each item I use goes into the tub afteward. Small items first to get them out of the way. If I plan to use an item again, it stays on the table.

AFTER the show, the leftover paper goes back in the PC tote and the dirty dishes go home. After I load the dishes into the dishwasher, I clean and dry the tote. It is now ready to hold paperwork for the next show.
Click to expand...


That's pretty much I how use mine too.
 
JAE said:
I bring plastic grocery bags, and if I forget to bring some, I just ask the host for a few. I don't usually need more than 3. I don't want to bring an extra tub for dirties. I can pretty much repack my tote the same way with the dirties in the plastic bags.
Click to expand...
Me too....kinda :) I used to take two Rubbermaid tubs. After the show, one held dirty dishes....the other got the tools I didn't use.Now I use the Show to Go and put the dirties in a lg PC plastic bag or kitchen trash bags. I don't use the WalMart-ish plastic bags because they usually have a hole in the bottom and I'm afraid something will leak out :eek: I like being able to fit everything back into the STG and rolling it back out the door.
 
I wash my dishes at my hosts house. I offer a free gift to anyone who does it for me. I usually give them a Season's Best. I do one recipe a month and I love not have to wash and repack when I get home.
 
I take the SS Bowl set with me (3-piece set only). All the dirties go in the large bowl and I put that into a pillowcase when it is loaded. I put any dirty stones in a pillowcase too. Then put them back in my tote, I usually take 2 totes and pack them light. When I'm done I have one tote for clean and one for dirty. When I get home, I wash my dirties and throw the pillow cases in the laundry. I used to use a trash bag but they tend to stretch. I also use pillow cases and PC dishtowels to wrap my SA and stones to protect them when traveling to shows.
 
I may have to start bribing guests to do my dishes. I'll be kitchen-sink-less for most of the late spring/early summer when we redo the kitchen. It would be much more convenient to have everything washed before I get home!
Thanks for the idea, Deb!
 
Wash what I can!!I always ask my host if she can have soapy warm water on one side of her sink and as I demo I drop them in the sink or have my host drop them in.
I have been blessed to have hosts who will wash my stuff for me or leave me very little to wash before I go home.
I definitely wash the stones before I head out so I can show how easy it is to my guests. And wash mostly everything else before I leave. |Or at least a quick rinse and drop them in my rubbermaid tub or whatever brand it is to stick in my dishwasher at home. Walmart had a sale and I got one for only $3.88. It's very handy to throw my stuff in when I don't have a chance to clean them because of so much interaction with guests or if my show is running late. I like to get home ASAP. I have had the convenience at my last show to demo right on her counter where I had access to her sink, an island and counter space. I love SPACE!!! :love:

Debbie :D
 
I also do the dishes at the hosts house. Most of my hosts insist that the dishes be done. I usually start them as soon as my demo is done. While everyone is eating. Then as soon as the first guest is ready to start with their order I do that. Sometimes i have breaks in between guest so I do dishes and start packing. It has seemed to work out very well so far.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #29
This is a good place to get sturdy reusable bags too - I love this site!
They even have reusable sandwich "bags"!!

http://reusablebags.com/
 
I buy industrial size trash bags and put it in my crate after I have unloaded. It fits great no streching. I put the crate under my table as I work and all dirties go in. When I'm done I fold over the excess bag on top of dirties, and put clean/unused stuff on top. Has worked great for me for 4+ years.

I am seroiusly considdering going to the 1 rec per month and bribing guests to do my washing.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to soak my dirty dishes?

To effectively soak your dirty dishes, fill your sink or a large basin with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap. Let the dishes sit for about 15-30 minutes to loosen any stuck-on food. This will make scrubbing much easier when you’re ready to wash them.

How can I prevent my dishes from getting too dirty?

To minimize the mess, try to clean as you go while cooking. Use the Pampered Chef tools that allow for easy mixing and chopping, and immediately rinse or soak any used utensils or dishes. Additionally, consider using parchment paper or silicone baking mats to reduce residue on baking sheets.

What are some tips for washing dishes efficiently?

To wash dishes efficiently, start with the least dirty items, like glasses and utensils, and work your way to the dirtiest, such as pots and pans. Use a dish wand or scrub brush for tough spots, and rinse items under hot water to help remove grease. If you’re using a dishwasher, load it strategically to maximize space and cleaning effectiveness.

How do I properly clean my non-stick cookware?

For non-stick cookware, avoid using abrasive scrubbers that can damage the coating. Instead, soak the pan in warm, soapy water for a few minutes, then use a soft sponge or cloth to gently scrub away food residue. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft towel to maintain the non-stick surface.

What should I do if my dishes have tough stains?

If your dishes have tough stains, try soaking them in a mixture of baking soda and water or vinegar and water for a few hours. For stubborn stains, make a paste of baking soda and water and apply it directly to the stain, letting it sit for a while before scrubbing. Always rinse thoroughly afterward to remove any residue.

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