Why You Should Use Mouthwash To Clean Your Washing Machine

Thanks to the internet, we no longer have to worry about running out of dishwasher detergent, laundry detergent, or even multipurpose cleaner. There are substitutes for a lot of common household cleaning agents, so you don't have to do a late-night run to the grocery store. Some are natural, like lemon and vinegar, while others, like bleach, are used to get rid of the hard stuff. Some work better than others, but it's all about finding the method that works for you.

There are a lot of hacks in the laundry department that help clothes smell better, look brighter, and feel softer. Unfortunately, that wonderful washing machine works really hard and often forgets to be cleaned. There are always solutions for this: You can use the tub cleaner setting if your washer has it or use a baking soda trick or the vinegar way out. On that end, we've got another hack for you to try: mouthwash. Curious? If you're crazy about everything clean, this trick might be just for you, as SheFinds notes. So, here's how to use mouthwash to clean your washing machine.

Mouthwash is a germ killer, as we use it to clean the bacteria and germs that live in our mouths. So, it's only natural to think about what other things it can clean. Turns out, it can clean your toilet and sink drains and even make flowers last longer, according to Mom 4 Real. So, chances are you have a bottle of it lying around (or even a sample from a hotel) and can put it to good use.

After many rounds of not-so-clean clothes, your washer needs a break and a good cleaning. Believe it or not, a little mouthwash can do the trick. According to SheFinds, just a half of a cup of mouthwash on an empty cycle can really make your washer smell amazing and get that funky smell out. Just be sure not to put clothes in on the cycle. Let the washer drum have some alone time.

There are a few notes to keep in mind if you are curious to try the mouthwash method to clean your washer drum. While it's most effective and tried with cleaning and disinfecting the drum, you can also use it with a load of laundry. Use with a particularly stinky load (looking at you, soccer gear), but make sure it doesn't contain any artificial colors as it may stain clothes, Greenhouse Eco-Cleaning advises.

On that end, that gallon-sized mouthwash you spot at your local shopping mart might become your favorite cleaning item. We recommend trying a cycle first just to see if it gives you the results you want before buying it in bulk. However, the thought of a minty-fresh scented clean washing drum seems worth a try. You can also try cleaning countertops, sink drains, and toilets with it. We hope you try this hack and perhaps even add it to your cleaning routine!