16 new uses for dishwashing detergent

Detergent is one of the most common products in everyday life. Available in different brands and with a wide variety of fragrances, detergents are easy to find and can be purchased at very affordable prices. It is common for it to be included in the shopping list and to be a constant presence in kitchens.

But what not everyone knows is that it can be used in activities that go far beyond simple dishwashing. As the product is always close by, it can be of great help in various day-to-day situations and even replace the use of other products.

As it is not toxic for children or pets, detergent is a good alternative for fighting insects. Thus, it can be used to replace more aggressive poisons in whole-home applications or directly on plants and animals.

The product is also a joker in the laundry, taking care of both the elimination of grease stains from fabrics and the washing of more delicate items.

Learn new ways to use your detergent below and experiment when needed:

1. Remove grease stains from clothes

Kitchen detergent is an effective option for removing grease stains from fabrics. Apply detergent to the stain, rub and rinse with water to quickly get rid of greasy residue. The method can be used even on the most delicate fabrics, such as silk.

2. Eliminate insects

It is true that there are a multitude of insecticides, but detergent is a cheap, effective and much less aggressive option than many poisons. Just mix about two tablespoons of detergent in a liter of water and spray directly on the insects.

3. Spray plants

In addition to eliminating the insects that are already on the plants, the detergent prevents further attacks by forming a protective film. In order not to harm the plant, use a little detergent: it is recommended to use three or four drops for a liter of water. Avoid spraying with detergent on very hot days and on plants that are exposed to the sun.

4. Water very dry pots

Forgot to water a plant and the soil in the pot got too dry? When this happens, it is common for the soil not to absorb water easily, causing the liquid not to reach the root. To help with the absorption process, just dilute a few drops of neutral dish detergent in the water when you shower.

5. Clean kitchen furniture

Even taking great care when cooking, it is common for cupboards, sinks, tables and other kitchen furniture to also get greasy. To clean them, spray a mixture of detergent and warm water, rinse with a damp cloth, then dry.

6. Clean the car engine

A solution consisting of two cups of detergent to one liter of water is an economical alternative to specific products for cleaning the engine.

7. Remove oil stains from concrete

Dish detergent is a good ally for removing oil stains from concrete. Coat the stain with baking soda, then put some dish soap on the spot. Rub and let the mixture sit for a few hours. Rinse and repeat the procedure until the stain is completely gone.

8. Washing delicate clothes

You know that piece of clothing that has to be hand washed? As it is lighter, dishwashing detergent is a great alternative for washing more delicate items. Replace the washing powder with a tablespoon of detergent.

9. Sanitize hair combs and brushes

Prepare a solution of warm water with a few drops of detergent to sanitize combs and hairbrushes. The mixture helps to eliminate oil and hair product residues that can accumulate on the bristles.

10. Shine jewelry

To clean your jewelry and keep it shiny, soak it for a few minutes in a mixture of mild dishwashing detergent and sparkling water. The bubbles help the detergent to penetrate the corners and remove dirt. If necessary, use a brush to clean it better.

11. Washing tiles

Mix two tablespoons of dish soap in a bucket of warm water for efficient tile cleaning. The detergent is ideal for getting rid of the greasy appearance and cleaning the grout.

12. Remove stains from carpets

To remove stains from carpets and rugs, clean it with a cloth soaked in warm soapy water. The detergent will help the cloth to absorb the stain residue. When the dirt is gone, sponge the area with cold water and then dry it.

13. Clean outdoor furniture

Tables, chairs and other furniture that are outdoors are directly exposed to the actions of the climate and pollution. Once again, the solution of warm water and dishwashing detergent is a powerful weapon in cleaning these objects.

14. Clean plant leaves

Anyone who uses plants in home decor knows that it is inevitable that leaves accumulate dust and other residues. To keep them clean and shiny, put a few drops of detergent in a liter of water and apply to the leaves using a cloth or cotton.

15. Eliminate dog fleas

Some flea poisons are toxic and very aggressive to dogs. The detergent, however, can be used on dogs of any age and, in addition to killing fleas, it makes the insect eggs fall out of the animal’s fur. To do this, just bathe the dog with detergent and wait a few minutes before rinsing.

16. Unclog the toilet

Pour half a cup of kitchen detergent into the clogged toilet and wait 10 to 15 minutes for the product to sink into the water. Then add boiling water and wait for the water to subside for a few minutes. Download it to check the result and, if necessary, repeat the process.

How to make your own dish detergent

Industrialized detergents have components that can harm the environment. Making your own detergent at home is simple, ecological and even helps you save money!

Ingredients

• 200g of coconut soap in bar
• 40g of sodium bicarbonate
• 50ml of alcohol
• 3 liters of water

Preparation mode

1. Grate the coconut soap;
2. Heat all the water in a pan;
3. Add the grated coconut soap to the hot water and wait for it to dissolve;
4. With the fire off, add the bicarbonate of soda and the alcohol;
5. Mix for five minutes and let it rest.

Take advantage of these tips and bet on detergent – ​​homemade or industrialized – also outside the kitchen! So you add more utility and value to this item so accessible and that can save you in times of need, when specific products for the uses listed above are not available.