Cooking on Shabbos, Laundry and Bathing during the Nine Days
Question
Hello, I’d like to ask a few questions:Is it permissible on Shabbos to place hot fish or any other hot food on a plate that has salads on it? (In terms of cooking concerns)Regarding the Nine Days — is it permitted to use laundered bath and hand towels? What about wearing a laundered pajama?Is it permitted to shower during the Nine Days for the sake of fulfilling the mitzvah of marital relations?Thank you very much!
Answer
Shalom UvRacha,
1. According to Ashkenazi custom, one must be careful not to place a hot solid item (davar gush) on something that is uncooked on Shabbos. Likewise, one should not place a hot solid on a liquid that had been cooked and then cooled down. However, according to opinion of the Shulchan Aruch, there is no stringency regarding a davar gush.
2. One may not use laundered towels or pajamas during the weekdays of the Nine Days. However, for the honor of Shabbos, it is permitted. If there are no other towels available, the laundered ones should be slightly soiled by placing them on the floor for a few minutes.
3. Anything necessary for the fulfillment of the mitzvah is permitted — even hot water is allowed when required for that purpose.