We all use dishwashing liquid, but that’s not all it can do – in fact, it has a multitude of uses that range from personal convenience to bathroom cleaning!
It’s not a harsh chemical despite what it seems, and is a great cleaning solution that can replace a number of different products. Here are some of our favourite ways that you can use dishwashing liquid to make life easier.
Don’t bother buying stainless steel cleaner – all you need is water and dish liquid to clean your appliances. Simply wipe with the grain then polish off with a microfibre cloth. Easy!
Pour dishwashing liquid on soap scum and let it sit overnight. In the morning, simply wipe off.
Do you have a squeaky door? You can use dishwashing liquid to lubricate the hinges. Just apply straight on and open normally.
If you have grease or oil stains on your clothing, don’t despair – rub the spot with dish liquid and let it sit overnight before washing as normal.
If you want a non-harsh delicate washer, use a tablespoon of dishwashing liquid in a sink of warm water and hand wash.
Natural oils stick to your fingernails, making it hard for your nail polish to stick. To extend the life of your manicure, mix a drop of dish liquid in a bowl of warm/hot water and let your hands soak for about five minutes before you apply your polish.
Has your hair dye gone darker than you thought? Or do you want to draw out some of your colour? Wash your hair with dish soap like you would shampoo – it will help draw out colour.
Rub a drop of dish soap on the lenses of your prescription glasses or sunglasses, then wipe clean without rinsing. The film will prevent fog from appearing.
Mix a drop or two of dish liquid into a bowl of soda water and drop your jewellery into the bowl. After five minutes, swish the jewellery around, then pull them out. Scrub gently with a soft toothbrush and rinse clean.
Fill a freezer bag with dishwashing liquid and freeze it to create your own ice pack. It stays frozen longer than water and can be re-frozen.
Stop pouring chemicals on your lawn and use a homemade mixture instead. Mix a teaspoon of dish liquid with a cup of salt and a litre of white vinegar. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and apply directly to those weeds.
Do you have oil or petrol on your concrete driveway? Put a thick coating of bicarb soda on the stain, then cover in dish liquid soap. Let it soak for a few hours, then scrub with a sturdy brush.
There’s no need for toxic chemicals to get rid of ants and roaches – simply pour a teaspoon of dish liquid into a spray bottle and fill it the rest of the way with water, then shake to mix. Spray one the bugs whenever you see them.
Pour a cup of dish liquid in the toilet, let it sit for 10 minutes, then pour a bucket of hot water into the bowl and flush.