Josephine Cochrane Invented the Modern Dishwasher — In 1886
1 min read
Summary
Josephine Cochrane invented the idea of using water pressure to clean dishes in 1886, taking inspiration from the hydraulic toilets of the time.
This automated process was awarded a patent and many of her features are still incorporated today in modern dishwashers.
Despite several hurdles she faced during that time as a woman inventor, she persevered and her invention won an award and attracted many buyers at the 1893 World’s Fair in Chicago.
She ran a successful business making these machines until her death in 1913, and it took until the 1950s for them to become popular as a household item, now considered a staple of the modern kitchen.
Nowadays, with the advances in plastic moulding and electronics, dishwashers are more affordable and easier to obtain, however, the basic idea of spraying water at the dishes to clean them has not changed since Cochrane’s design.
This article honours her work and encourages people to be grateful for what they have, taking everyday appliances for granted.
