We all use our favorite dishwashing soap to clean up our dirty dishes, but how many of us know it also is useful for other cleaning purposes? Cleaning professionals know it can be a handy cleaning product outside the kitchen as well.

Here are five uses for dishwashing soap besides doing dishes.

Removing Stains

When spills occur we want to act quickly to remove stains, whether it’s red wine, chocolate or ketchup. Dishwashing liquid can come to your rescue and is steps away in your kitchen.

What you will need:

  • dishwashing soap
  • hydrogen peroxide

Note: Be sure to check the fabric cleaning instructions first to avoid any potential color fading by the hydrogen peroxide.

Steps to Follow:

  1. Combine one part dishwashing soap with three parts of the hydrogen peroxide.
  2. Presoak the stain with this mixture.
  3. Wait several minutes and the stain should start fading.
  4. After the stain appears lighter, add a bit more dishwashing liquid and peroxide and continue to presoak.
  5. Wash the clothing or material following its care instructions.

Cleaning Both Cabinets and Countertops

Why buy another cleaning product when you already have dishwashing liquid on hand and it can do a great job cleaning your cabinets and countertops? The following recipe is fine for even stone countertops.

What you will need:

  • a clean bucket or kitchen sink
  • dishwashing liquid
  • warm water
  • a microfiber cloth

Steps to Follow:

  1. Combine several drops of dishwashing soap with warm water to create some suds.
  2. Wet a microfiber cloth with the sudsy water.
  3. Wipe down the countertops and cabinets, rinsing the cloth with clean water as it becomes dirty.
  4. Let the countertops and cabinets dry.
  5. With another clean, dry microfiber cloth, buff until everything shines.

Cleaning Soap Scum

You can stop using harsh chemicals to tackle nasty soap scum when cleaning your bathtub because your liquid dishwashing soap can handle it. 

Note: Do not use the following solution on stone walls or tiles as vinegar can damage those surfaces.

What you will need:

  • two tablespoons dishwashing soap
  • one tablespoon of cornstarch
  • one cup distilled white vinegar
  • spray bottle
  • microwave safe bowl

 Steps to Follow

  1. Combine the cornstarch and vinegar in the microwave safe bowl until the mixture is thick.
  2. Heat the mixture in your microwave for one to two minutes.
  3. Pour the dishwashing soap into the spray bottle.
  4. Pour the heated vinegar and cornstarch mixture into the spray bottle.
  5. Shake the mix in the spray bottle.
  6. Spray the shower walls and tub with the solution and let it sit for 10 minutes.
  7. Rinse the walls and tub well with water, making sure to remove all of the cleaning solution.
  8. Dry the tub and walls with a microfiber cloth.
  9. Repeat these steps until all surfaces are scum free

Cleaning Appliances

Another great use for dishwashing liquid is to use it as an all-purpose cleaner for your kitchen appliances.

Hopefully, you will discover that you no longer needs so many different cleaning products to clean your kitchen, fabrics and bathroom by using these dishwashing liquid solutions. But, if you find you don’t have the time or motivation to do all your own cleaning, contact Maid Spotless Cleaning Services to assist you with all your Albany home cleaning needs.