Pack them out in doubled plastic bags. Minimize soap and food residues in waste water. Hot water and a little elbow grease can tackle most backcountry cleaning chores. Soap is unnecessary for dish washing jobs and can be difficult to rinse thoroughly. Place waste water in a single location downwind from sleeping and food storage areas to minimize odors.
Pack particles out with excess food and other litter.
If camping on a large river, dishes can be rinsed in the river once food particles have been removed and properly stored. This practice minimizes food odors and cause negligible environmental damage on rivers, but is inappropriate in small streams and lakes. Before using the dishes again, be certain they are dry or rinsed with boiling water to reduce the risk of Giardia. Avoid contaminating water sources when washing. Soap, even if biodegradable, must not enter lakes or streams, so it is best to minimize its use.