Final answer:
The first step in washing dishes in a 3-vat sink is to scrape off any leftover food from the dishes. This is followed by placing the dishes into the first vat filled with a mixture of warm water and a specific hand dishwashing detergent.
Step-by-step explanation:
First Step in Using a 3-Vat Sink for Washing Dishes:
The first step in the process of washing dishes in a 3-vat sink is to ensure that all dishes have been scraped of leftover food. This initial step is crucial as it prevents food debris from contaminating the washing water, thereby making the cleaning process more efficient. Hand dishwashing detergents contain surfactants, which reduce the surface tension of the water, increase the solubility of the mixture, and facilitate the removal of oils and residues from dishes during the manual washing process. It is important to select the appropriate detergent for the material of the dishes to avoid damage, especially for objects that are not dishwasher safe, such as silver, fine glassware, and items with gold leaf.
After scraping off food particles, the dishes are placed in the first sink filled with a mixture of warm water and an appropriate hand dishwashing detergent. Proper cleaning technique involves using a dishcloth or brush to thoroughly clean each item.