15 Wallet-Friendly Ways To Use Dish Soap That Involve More Than Just Washing Dishes

Jun 07, 2018

In a time when it seems that everything is becoming more expensive, it is refreshing to find a versatile product that can perform more than one function. Cleaning products, in particular, have gone up in price in recent years, and it forces me to relive my childhood and dig deep into finding products that can work for all types of cleaning and restoration jobs. 

Dish soap is one of these miracle products that combines gentle cleaning action with effective elimination of dirt, grease, and grime. Here are some simple ways that dish soap can be used to clean up your life---and your home. 

Dish soap is one of these miracle products that combines gentle cleaning action with effective elimination of dirt, grease, and grime. Here are some simple ways that dish soap can be used to clean up your life---and your home. 

If you have pesky poison ivy crawling around your house, mixing up a solution of 2 tablespoons dish soap, one gallon of white vinegar, and one cup salt for an effective weed killer. If you suspect you have already come in contact with the irritating plant, simply wash the affected area with dish soap and water, and it will stop itching almost instantly. 

Forget using harsh chemicals to flush your pipes; pour a cup of dish soap directly into the toilet bowl and let it sit for 15 minutes. Follow with hot water to flush out your pipes and get your toilet flushing well again. 

Fill up a spray bottle with water and a few drops of detergent to keep pesky insects away from plants, countertops, and cupboards. 

Dish soap stays cool much longer than ice; fill a plastic bag with dish liquid and freeze. Apply to affected skin as needed. As this liquid can be refrozen several times, it is the perfect way to make a homemade ice pack for all of those summer bumps, bruises, and scrapes. 

A simple mixture of equal parts dishwashing soap and vinegar will leave your tub and shower sparkling white without the nasty fumes. Spray liberally on the area to be cleaned, then let it sit for 30 minutes. Scrub away any mold and mildew with ease, leaving your tub gleaming white. 

There is nothing more annoying to those of us sporting glasses than foggy lenses after extreme changes in heat and cold. Combat this issue by rubbing a small amount of dish soap onto both sides of your lenses and allowing it to dry. Buff it off for a fog free lens in no time, as it builds up a transparent layer that is resistant to moisture and fogging over. 

Even harsh chemicals like chlorine have trouble keeping a pool clean in summer months, where insects, suntan lotion, and hair products can gunk it up. Placing a few drops of dish soap in your pool will collect all the grease, hair, and other unsightly pool contaminants along the sides, contributing to easier cleanup. 

Rusty metal objects can be placed in a solution of dish soap and warm water to soak. A little scrub and rinse, and your metal objects will be as good as new. 

From time to time, our hair is weighed down by excess dirt, oil, and product residue that is difficult to remove with regular shampoo. Washing your hair with dish soap is an effective way to gently clean all residue out without damaging your lovely locks. 

Three drops of dish soap per one gallon of water will mix up a wonderful alternative to harsh window cleaners. Get ready for sparkling panes! 

As this detergent is designed to be gentle enough for use on skin, it is an effective manicure/pedicure soak. Your cuticles will soften and all residue will be removed from the nails, making them easier to clean and polish. 

Who needs doggie shampoo when you have dish soap? Washing your pets regularly with dish soap will remove dirt, grime, and even pesky fleas from their fur, leaving them comfortable and clean. Pet care items can also be washed in warm soapy water to ensure that your pet and your home stay as pristine as possible. 

One teaspoon of dish soap, one tablespoon of rubbing alcohol, and half a gallon of hot water will form an effective de-icer for sidewalks and walkways that will resist refreezing. 

There is no better solution for bubble blowing with the kids than dish soap and water. Something about this magical blue liquid lends itself perfectly to churning out a frothy carnival of bubbles; go crazy and have fun with the kids outside on a warm summer day. 

This magic potion has revolutionized my cleaning protocol and my pocketbook; hopefully these helpful tips will have you singing the praises of dish soap and its many uses around house and home.