In our daily lives, we often underestimate the potential of household items that we use on a regular basis. One such item is washing up liquid. While its primary purpose is to clean dishes and cutlery, washing up liquid has a wide range of versatile uses that go way beyond just cleaning. In this guide, we will explore the various unconventional uses of washing up liquid and how it can simplify your life in unexpected ways.
1. Cleaning Surfaces
Washing up liquid is not just limited to cleaning dishes; it can also be used to effectively clean various surfaces around your home.
Here are some examples:
Kitchen Work Surfaces
Washing up liquid can be used to remove stubborn stains and grease from kitchen countertops. Simply mix a few drops of dish soap with warm water, apply it to the surface, and wipe it clean with a cloth. The powerful degreasing agents in the soap will leave your work surfaces spotless.
Bathroom Tiles
Bathroom tiles can accumulate soap scum, limescale and grime over time. To tackle this, create a mixture of washing up liquid and warm water, and use a sponge or brush to scrub the tiles. The soap's foaming agents will help lift and remove these unsightly stains from your tiles.
Glass Surfaces
Fed up of streaks and smudges on your glass surfaces? Washing up liquid can come to the rescue. Mix a small amount of washing up liquid with water in a spray bottle, and use it to clean windows, mirrors, and glass tabletops. The grease-cutting properties will leave a streak-free shine.
2. Laundry Hacks
Believe it or not, washing up liquid can be a game-changer when it comes to doing laundry.
Here are some innovative ways to use it:
Stain Removal
Stubborn stains on clothes can be a nightmare to deal with, but washing up liquid can make the task easier. Apply a small amount of washing up liquid directly to the stain, gently rub it in, and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, wash the garment as usual, and watch the stain disappear.
Hand-Washing Delicates
Delicate fabrics such as silk or lace require special care when hand-washing. Add a few drops of washing up liquid to a sink of lukewarm water, and gently agitate the water to create suds. Submerge the delicate item and swish it around, then rinse thoroughly. The gentle yet effective cleaning action of the soap will help clean your clothes with no aggressive/harsh chemicals.
Removing Grease Stains
Grease stains can be notoriously difficult to remove from clothes. However, washing up liquid can be a powerful ally in this battle. Apply a small amount directly to the grease stain, rub it in gently, and let it sit for a few minutes. The surfactants in the washing up liquid will help to lift grease away from the fabric. Then, wash the garment as usual, and say goodbye to those stubborn grease marks.
3. Household Cleaning Solutions
Washing up liquid can be a cost-effective alternative to specialised cleaning products.
Here are some ways to use it around the house:
Carpet Stain Remover
Accidents happen, and sometimes your carpet falls victim to spills and stains. To tackle these accidents, create a DIY carpet stain remover by mixing washing up liquid with warm water. Apply the solution to the stained area, blot it with a clean cloth, and repeat until the stain is gone. The surfactant properties in the washing up liquid encapsulate the stain particles and allow it to be lifted away from the carpet fibres.
Oven Cleaner
Washing up liquid can help with light oven cleaning tasks. Fill a bath or large sink or tray with warm water and add a generous amount of washing up liquid. Submerge the oven racks in the soapy water and let them soak for a few hours. Then, scrub away the grease using a sponge or brush. Rinse thoroughly before placing them back in the oven.
For especially stubborn or baked-on grime, pop a dishwasher tablet into the mixture.
Jewellery Cleaner
Over time, jewellery can lose its sparkle due to dirt, oils and oxidation. To restore its shine, create a gentle cleaning solution by mixing a few drops of washing up liquid with warm water. Soak your jewellery in the solution for a few minutes, then use a soft brush to gently scrub away any grime. Rinse thoroughly afterwards and dry with a soft microfibre cloth.
4. Outdoor Applications
Washing up liquid can be a handy tool for various outdoor tasks.
Here are a few examples:
Garden Pest Control
To keep pests away from your plants, you can create a natural repellent using washing up liquid & white vinegar. Mix a small amount with water and a few drops of white vinegar in a spray bottle and spray it onto the leaves of affected plants. The soap & vinegar mixture will suffocate and repel insects, helping to protect your garden without the need for harsh chemicals.
Outdoor Furniture Cleaner
Outdoor furniture can accumulate dirt, grime, and other debris over time. To give it a thorough cleaning, mix washing up liquid with warm water and use a sponge or brush to scrub the surfaces. Rinse with water and let it air dry.
Patios & Decking
For light cleaning of patios & decking, washing up liquid can be a handy tool in your arsenal. Use a bucket of warm water with a few squirts of washing up liquid. Mix it well until you see some suds forming on the surface. Apply the soapy water generously to the decking or patio surface. Scrub the area with a stiff-bristled brush or broom. Once you're satisfied with the cleaning, thoroughly rinse the area with clean water. You can use a garden hose or pressure washer for better results.
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Washing Up Liquid FAQs
Can washing up liquid be used to clean makeup brushes?
Yes, washing up liquid can be used to clean makeup brushes. Mix a small amount with warm water, swirl the brushes in the mixture, and rinse thoroughly. This will help lift away any makeup residue and bacteria.
Is it safe to use washing up liquid with sensitive skin?
Washing up liquid is generally safe for use on the skin, but it may cause dryness or irritation in individuals with sensitive skin. It's always recommended to wear rubber gloves if you have any concerns.
Can I use washing up liquid as a pet shampoo?
No, pet skin can be rather more sensitive than human skin, washing up liquid may cause irritation to your pet, you should use a proper pet shampoo or baby shampoo.
Can I use washing up liquid on my car?
No, the salts in washing up liquid can affect paintwork, it also worth nothing that washing up liquid may strip any protective waxes or sealants you have applied to your paintwork.
Can washing up liquid be used to clean fruits and vegetables?
Washing up liquid can effectively remove dirt and wax from fruits and vegetables, however it's important to rinse them thoroughly after cleaning to remove any residue.
Can washing up liquid be used in a dishwasher?
No, washing up liquid should not be used in a dishwasher. Dishwashers require specialised dishwasher detergent, as regular washing up liquid can create excessive suds and damage the machine. Always use dishwasher detergent according to the manufacturer's instructions.
...and now you know!
Washing up liquid is a versatile household item that goes beyond its traditional role of cleaning dishes. From surfaces to laundry, from household cleaning to outdoor applications, this humble liquid can simplify your life in numerous ways. So, the next time you reach for that bottle of washing up liquid, remember its potential beyond just cleaning dishes.
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