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Introduction
We all have that one family member whose cleaning game is on another level—and in my case, it’s my mother-in-law. While I used to dread deep cleaning days, she turned my entire cleaning routine upside-down (in the best way possible) with one surprising tip: dishwasher tablets aren’t just for dishes. What started as a curious suggestion became a game-changer in how I tackle stubborn stains, grime, and even soap scum. Here’s the surprisingly effective hack that revolutionized the way I clean—and how you can try it too.
Ingredients (a.k.a. What You’ll Need)
1 dishwasher tablet (any brand, but those with fewer additives work best)
1 bowl or bucket of hot water (not boiling)
1 pair of rubber gloves
1 sponge, cloth, or soft-bristled brush
Optional: spray bottle for pre-soaking or targeted application
Instructions
Glove Up: Pop on your gloves to protect your hands—dishwasher tablets contain cleaning agents that can be harsh on skin.
Dissolve the Tablet: Drop the dishwasher tablet into a bowl or bucket of hot water. Let it sit until fully dissolved. The solution should look slightly cloudy.
Dip and Clean:
For floors: Dip your mop into the solution and go to town on tiles or vinyl. Avoid wood, as the solution might be too harsh.
For bathtubs and sinks: Use a sponge soaked in the solution to scrub away soap scum and buildup.
For oven doors or greasy stovetops: Apply the solution with a cloth, let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then wipe clean.
Rinse and Repeat: For most surfaces, follow up with a damp cloth or rinse with plain water to remove any residue.
Serving and Storage Tips
You can store the dissolved solution in a spray bottle for a few days. Just give it a shake before use.
Keep tablets in a cool, dry place, away from moisture to avoid premature dissolving.
Avoid using this hack on delicate surfaces like untreated wood, painted finishes, or natural stone (like granite or marble).
Variations
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