Los Trastes

[Bobbert]

I only hear the word "trastes" used when it refers to washing the dishes, and it is always in the plural form.

Is this word ever used in the singular form to mean a dish/a plate?

Is it possible to say: Tengo que lavar este traste antes de irme.

Is this word ever used to mean something not related to washing the dishes?

Is it possible to say: ¡Cuidado, el traste aún está caliente!

Any input is appreciated.

[Rusty]

I've never heard 'traste' used to mean a single dish (the name of the item is used instead).
The singular noun 'traste' can mean several things: junk, trash/garbage/rubbish, knickknack/trinket (could be used in plural), and, colloquially, one's rear end/butt.