Appreciation for the dishwasher

February 22 is “Dishwasher Day” (食器洗い乾燥機の日), a lighthearted anniversary created by the Japan Electrical Manufacturers’ Association. And it is no accident that it falls on the same day as "Couples Day" (Fufu no hi).

The idea behind the day is simple: dishwashers make life easier. By taking over the after‑dinner cleanup, they free up time for couples to relax together, reduce hand irritation from constant washing, and keep dishes more hygienic overall. The date comes from a cute bit of wordplay — “ふ（2）うふ（2）に（2）っこり”, meaning “smiling couples,” which ties the appliance to a happier, more relaxed home life, and simultaneously to "Couples Day". 

Dishwashers still aren't all that common in Japan. Moreover, they are much smaller than the dishwashers in the West, to fit in smaller Japanese homes. Hence, I personally don't have one - there's no point with my family of six as they don't hold enough dishes each cycle! But I do appreciate that dishwashers make home life smoother and household chores easier!