In 2015, dishwashers have become more efficient and more powerful than our ability to wash by hand. Here are three good reasons, backed by science, why you shouldn’t wash your dishes by hand.

1. Energy and water efficient

It might come as a surprise, but nowadays dishwashers are so efficient that they save more water and energy, in comparison to washing by hand.

“Jonah Schein, the technical coordinator of the EPA’s WaterSense program, says, While it may be possible to use less water/energy by washing dishes by hand, it is extremely unlikely.”

2. Real cleanliness

Dishwashers use a mix of hot and cold waters to clean dishes. In some dishwashers, the hot water temperatures may reach up to 140 or 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Even after the washing process, most modern dishwashers employ a heat dry mechanism that blows hot air onto the dishes to dry them. The alternating between hot and cold water ensure that bacteria doesn’t linger in your dishes. Dishwashers wash your dishes faster and more efficiently that you can do by hand.

“Melissa Fiffer, an Energy Star appliance product manager, has said that the new Energy Star – certified dishwasher will use 12 percent less energy and 25 percent less water than a dishwasher that meets the federal minimum.”

3. Designed to clean

“As the dishwasher market grows and expands its features, dish washing has become an effortless part of our daily lives.”

Dishwashers are designed to clean. Modern dishwashers are more efficient and have new features that ensure your dishes are clean and dry. They have advanced features such as soil sensors that detect if your dishes are still dirty. Because of these new features, dishwasher brands are competing to manufacture the most energy and water efficient dishwashers.

Why would you still want to wash your dishes by hand when you can just turn on the dishwasher and relax?