What should be done with smoke-affected dishes before cleaning?

When dealing with smoke-affected dishes, it is crucial to handle them with care. Smoke damage can leave residues that may be harmful or more easily spread if the dishes are mishandled. By treating these items gently, you ensure that the residual particles remain undisturbed until proper cleaning procedures can be employed. Careful handling also helps prevent further contamination and potential damage to the dishes, which may include scratching or breaking delicate items.

The focus on the specific nature of smoke-affected items underscores the importance of protecting both the items themselves and the environment in which they are cleaned. Proper care in handling can also facilitate more thorough and effective cleaning practices afterward, ensuring that all residues are adequately addressed without causing additional damage or distress.

In contrast to this, the other choices do not prioritize the delicate nature required for handling smoke-affected dishes. For instance, soaking in water might risk damaging the finish or material of the dishes, while wrapping in plastic could trap odors or residues instead of allowing for proper cleaning. Documentation is important in restoration processes, but it does not relate directly to the physical handling of the items before cleaning. Thus, careful handling stands out as the most appropriate action before proceeding with any cleaning efforts.