17 Surprising Ways to Use Dawn Dish Soap

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Dawn dish soap excels at dishwashing, but it’s more than just a kitchen essential. This iconic powerhouse cleaner is a natural degreaser that boasts a range of practical household uses.

Here are 17 of the best ways to use Dawn dish soap.

1. Cleaning Outdoor Furniture

During the summer, your outdoor furniture can get dirty and lose its shine. But don’t worry, there’s an easy way to clean it using Dawn dish soap. Just mix Dawn with warm water and wipe down your furniture. Then rinse it off with a hose. For the cushions, wet them and scrub them with a mixture of Dawn and water. Rinse them well with the hose, and make sure to remove all the soap. 

2. Grill Cleaning

After a delicious barbecue, the last thing anybody wants is to spend hours scrubbing the grill. Luckily, Dawn dish soap can make this chore a breeze. Place the grill rack in a large trash bag, add a mixture of Dawn and water, and let it sit overnight. The next day, simply scrub the rack with a wire brush and rinse it off. Your grill rack will be as good as new!

3. Cleaning Plastic Pools

When it comes to cleaning your kids’ pools, you don’t need harsh chemicals. Dawn dish soap mixed with warm, soapy water can effectively remove dirt and grime from plastic pools. It’s a safer alternative that can help your pools last longer.

4. Removing Gum from Hair

Accidents happen, and when your child gets gum stuck in their hair, there’s no need to panic. Dawn dish soap can save the day. Apply a small amount of Dawn to your fingertips and gently rub it into the gum and the surrounding hair. With a bit of patience and careful combing, the gum will loosen and come out, leaving your child’s hair gum-free.

5. Removing Hair Product Buildup

Over time, hair products can leave a residue on your hair that regular shampoo may not thoroughly remove. To combat this buildup and keep your hair fresh and clean, add Dawn dish soap to your hair care routine. Wash your hair with Dawn, followed by regular conditioning. This will help eliminate residue, leaving your hair feeling light and revitalized.

6. Unclogging Toilets

A clogged toilet is never pleasant, but before rushing to the store for chemical drain cleaners, give Dawn dish soap a chance. Pour a cup of Dawn into the toilet bowl and let it sit for about 30 minutes. Then, carefully pour a bucket of hot water into the toilet. The dish soap will work its magic, breaking down the clog and restoring the water flow.

7. Tub & Shower Cleaning

For an effective tub and shower cleaner, combine white vinegar and Dawn dish soap in a spray bottle. Heat the mixture in the microwave for 45 seconds. Shake it well and spray it onto your tub and shower walls. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then wash it away. This mixture will remove dirt and grime, leaving your shower walls clean and fresh.

8. Window Cleaning

Forget expensive window cleaners; Dawn dish soap is all you need for streak-free, crystal-clear windows. Fill a spray bottle with water and add a drop of Dawn. Spray the mixture onto your windows and wipe them clean with a cloth or squeegee. Then, enjoy the view outside without any annoying smudges or streaks.

9. Carpet Stain Removal

Before replacing a stained carpet, try this DIY carpet stain remover with Dawn dish soap. Mix hydrogen peroxide and Dawn in a spray bottle and spray it onto the stained area. Gently scrub the stain, and watch as the powerful combination lifts away the stubborn marks. Rinse with water and pat dry, and your carpet will look refreshed and stain-free.

10. Laundry Stains

Dawn dish soap can be a lifesaver when tackling tough stains on clothes. For stains like grease, oil, or butter, apply a small amount of Dawn directly to the stain, rub it in gently, and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, wash the garment as usual. Dawn’s powerful grease-fighting properties can help lift stains, leaving your clothes looking fresh and stain-free

11. Weed Killer

Surprisingly, Dawn dish soap can be used as a cheap weed killer alternative. Mix 1/2 teaspoon of Dawn, 1/2 cup of salt, and 1/2 gallon of white vinegar. Spray or pour this mixture directly on the weeds, being careful to avoid any plants you want to keep. This natural method is excellent for keeping weeds under control.

12. Fly Catcher

Planning a picnic? With this trick, you won’t have to worry about flies bothering your food. Put a couple of drops of Dawn in a container and add white vinegar. Place the container where the flies are. They will be attracted to the vinegar but get stuck in the Dawn, keeping them away from your food.

13. Flea Treatment

If your dog or cat gets fleas, bathe them immediately in a mixture of Dawn and white vinegar. This combination kills fleas on contact and is cheaper than flea and tick shampoo. Keeping a mixture on hand for quick use when needed is a good idea.

14. Pet Shampoo

If your furry friend needs a bath, but you’re out of pet shampoo, don’t worry! Dawn dish soap can be used as a safe and effective alternative. Dilute a small amount of Dawn with warm water and use it to lather up your pet’s fur. Be sure to rinse thoroughly to remove all the soap. Your pet will be clean and fresh, ready for cuddles.

15. Homemade Dishwasher Detergent

In a pinch, you can use Dawn dish soap as a substitute for dishwasher detergent. Add a few drops of Dawn to the dishwasher’s detergent compartment and run the cycle as usual. Note that this method should only be used occasionally, as regular use of dish soap in the dishwasher can cause excessive suds.

16. Fabric Freshener

Create a homemade fabric freshener spray by mixing water and a few drops of Dawn dish soap in a spray bottle. Lightly spritz the solution onto fabrics such as curtains, upholstery, or rugs to eliminate odors. Allow the fabric to air dry, and enjoy the fresh scent that Dawn leaves behind.

17. Sticky Price Tag Remover

Remove sticky residue and price tags from items using Dawn dish soap. Apply a small amount of Dawn directly to the sticky area and let it sit for a few minutes. Scrub gently with a cloth or sponge; the residue should lift off easily. Rinse with water and dry the item thoroughly.

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