5 Unexpected Ways To Use OxiClean Around Your House

OxiClean is a powerful cleaning agent that can help you wash your clothes and brighten whites without using bleach. However, did you know that there are many other ways to use this product around your home? According to OxiClean, the detergent's formula includes several powerful ingredients, including sodium percarbonate and carbonate, surfactants, and polymer. These compounds work to remove stains, lift oils off of surfaces, and so much more. As such, you can clean different, unexpected areas of your house with this affordable cleaner.

Whether you're looking to get rid of stains or clean your bathroom, OxiClean can be a great resource. Before diving into how you can use this laundry powder, there are a few big mistakes you want to avoid when handling this type of product. For starters, wear protective equipment, like latex gloves and a face mask, avoid direct contact with your eyes, and don't mix it without other chemicals. Now, let's get started.

1. Clean your bathroom

There are many things that you may need to routinely clean in your bathroom. After all, it's a space that gets used frequently by you, other household members, and guests from time to time. Fortunately, OxiClean can help leave your bathroom spotless. According to Home Depot, this laundry detergent can be used to create an effective solution for mildew removal on your shower curtains and more. The company recommends letting your shower curtain soak in a solution made with one to four scoops (two to eight tablespoons) of OxiClean and one gallon of water. Then, soak your shower curtain for up to an hour, scrub, rinse, and hang it back up to dry.

For general mildew removal in your bathroom, use the same mixture and apply it to any affected surfaces using a brush or sponge. Then, let it sit for 20 to 30 minutes, rinse, and wipe dry with a clean rag.

2. Deodorize your garbage can

Your garbage bin can begin to develop a smell after some time, which may not be very pleasant. Plus, that smell may only worsen the longer it's left untreated. Fortunately, you don't have to purchase an expensive product to get rid of any smells coming out of our trash can. In fact, you can use the same OxiClean detergent you use for your laundry to rid your garbage and recycling bins of any foul-smelling odors. Whether you're deodorizing a small bathroom bin or large outdoor trash can, you can clean it using this laundry product and leave it sparkling clean and smelling fresh.

According to OxiClean, it's recommended you fill the special measuring cup that's included in their detergents up to line four and mix it with one gallon of water. You'll repeat this for every gallon of water. You can use a sponge, scouring pad, clean cloth, or brush to clean the trash can thoroughly or pour the mixture directionally into the bin. Then, you'll rinse your garbage can, making sure to remove the solution completely. 

3. Remove adhesive residue

Nothing is more frustrating than having to remove stubborn labels or stickers off of used jars, especially when you want to repurpose them as décor. Luckily, OxiClean actually works to help you peel off the sticky residue from glass items. OxiClean is so effective because it creates a soapy solution when mixed with water, which, according to Online Labels, is great for lifting stickers from materials made out of glass.

To use OxiClean for this purpose, grab a bucket or container large enough to place your jars. Then, fill it with enough water to soak them completely and pour a large scoop of detergent. Let them sit for at least an hour before gently scraping the labels off of the jars. Consider leaving extra difficult labels in the soapy water overnight and using sturdy steel wool to scrub them off. After this, you'll never have to struggle with hard-to-remove adhesive labels on glass again.

4. Brighten grout

Grout is difficult to maintain because it's a high-contact surface that's always being walked on by you, family members, and even pets. Grout is also common in bathrooms, specifically on the floor and on shower walls. Regardless of which type of grout you have, OxiClean can help you keep it clean.

OxiClean recommends mixing one gallon of water and filling their specially-designed scoop to line four. For stubborn grout stains, they recommend creating a more concentrated solution. Then, you'll apply your mixture directly onto the grout, completely covering any areas you wish to clean. It's best to tackle small sections of grout first to ensure the solution doesn't dry before you have a chance to scrub it in and wipe it clean. For daily maintenance, you can leave it on for a minimum of 5 minutes. For tough stains, let the mixture sit for 30 minutes. Once time's up, rinse and wipe dry.

5. Lift carpet and upholstery stains

No one appreciates stains on their carpet or upholstery; after all, they can easily ruin the aesthetic of any home. Stains can also permanently stain your favorite cushions or beloved kitchen runner when not treated promptly or correctly.

To combat stubborn stains, you can create a solution using OxiClean and water. OxiClean suggests mixing 16 ounces of water and filling their special measuring scoop to line one in a spray bottle or container. Then, spray the mixture onto a clean white rag or dip the rag into your solution. Make sure to wear gloves to avoid direct contact with your skin. Carefully blot the stain with the rag, but don't rub it into the surface. This can prevent the stain from deepening into the fabric. Once the stain begins to lift and is no longer visible, use a clean wet cloth to blot the area again.