8 Genius Uses of Mouthwash in the House

Mouthwash is one of the most versatile yet underrated household items. From cleaning your home to freshening up laundry and even treating wounds, there are plenty of uses for mouthwash beyond the typical mouth rinse routine.

Did you know mouthwash was originally branded as a surgical antiseptic, deodorant and dandruff solution? It’s time we tap into this product’s fullest potential, including these genius uses for mouthwash around the house.

Alleviate Poison Ivy-Induced Itchiness

If you recently encountered poison ivy and need a quick fix to reduce itchiness, apply mouthwash to the irritated area to promote faster healing. It dries out the area and reduces inflammation. Best of all, you probably already have some on hand.

Freshen Up Your Laundry

After spending a hot day outside doing yard work, toss some mouthwash into your washing machine with your soiled clothes. Between a half cup and a full cup should do the trick depending on how many items you’re washing.

When you remove your clothes, they’ll smell fresh with no lingering musty odor. For best results, be sure to use a nearly color-free mouthwash that’s alcohol-based.

Treat Fungal Infections

If you’ve ever wondered, “Can mouthwash be used as an antiseptic?” you’ll be thrilled to learn the answer is a resounding yes. Because it features alcohol and additional antiseptic ingredients, it can effectively treat fungal infections.

Soak a cotton ball in equal parts mouthwash and white vinegar, then blot the area. Repeat two to three times daily. Pro tip: If you don’t have bacitracin, dab mouthwash on blisters or cuts for cleanliness.

Keep New Piercings Clean

Because of its antiseptic properties, mouthwash also will keep your new piercings clean and infection-free. For best results, use sugar-free mouthwash. Dab a little on a cotton ball and gently apply it to the affected area.

Reduce Body Odor

If you’re out of deodorant but don’t have time to go to the store, this game-changing hack will save the day.

If you have a minty mouthwash containing eucalyptol, thymol, and methyl salicylate, you’re good to go. Simply put a little onto a cotton ball and apply it underneath your arms.

Treat Dandruff

Because mouthwash features many antibacterial qualities, it can quickly remove dandruff. The oils it contains also alleviate dandruff while reducing itchiness. After you’ve shampooed and conditioned your hair, spritz a mixture of half water and half mouthwash onto your scalp.

Clean Your Toilet

There’s nothing better than an easy-to-make cleaner with ingredients you likely already have in your cabinet. Simply throw a cup of mouthwash into your toilet and let it sit for 30 minutes. Then quickly give it a scrub with your toilet brush and flush.

Give Your Flowers a Boost

If you love fresh-cut flowers around your home but dislike how quickly they fade, mouthwash can keep them looking beautiful longer. This is a terrific little-known use for mouthwash; it slows decomposition and controls the bacteria. The ratio is simple: One cap of mouthwash per quart of water.