What are the guidelines for utensils that must be immersed in a mikvah?
Submitted by Cynthia Tobias Answer: Below is a concise, but not thorough, guide to the laws of tvilat keilim (mikvah immersion of utensils). THE OBLIGATION TO IMMERSE 1. Utensils intended for food consumption made by, or purchased from non-Jews, must be immersed. 2. Utensils requiring immersion include utensils used for eating and drinking (such as plates, cups and cutlery). 3. The obligation to immerse utensils applies equally to new and old utensils as well as utensils that are used for hot and/or cold foods/beverages. 4. Only utensils made of metal, glass or glazed earthenware must be immersed. Utensils made of wood, clay or bone need not be immersed. 5. Only utensils that will come in direct contact with food must be immersed. Utensils intended for one-time use, such as disposable aluminum pans do not require immersion. THE METHOD OF IMMERSION 1. The entire utensil must be immersed at one time in water. The water must come in direct contact with all the surfaces of the utensil duri
