Did you know that when mouthwash was first discovered for oral health in 1895, it was used as a surgical disinfectant?
Today, mouthwash is used to supplement proper brushing and flossing. Though this antibacterial rinse is great for taking your dental hygiene to the next level, there are also other uses for mouthwash as well.
10 Other Uses for Mouthwash
- Nail Fungus
Alcohol and other antiseptic ingredients are found in mouthwash, which are great at treating fungal infections. Simply sweep the affected area with a cotton ball soaked in equal parts mouthwash and white vinegar. Do this 2-3 times a day.
- Deodorant
You can use mouthwash to get rid of body odor because of ingredients like eucalyptol, thymol, and methyl salicylate. Soak a cotton ball in mouthwash and rub it on armpits to cover.
- Dandruff Treatment
Mouthwash is great at treating dandruff because of its antibacterial properties. Mix equal parts mouthwash and water and let sit on your scalp a few minutes after your normal hair washing routine. Be careful when you rinse as it could sting your eyes.
- Laundry
Use a capful of sugar-free, alcohol-based, near colorless mouthwash in your next load if your washing machine starts smelling musty or you’re washing particularly foul smelling clothes. It can also be used in a pinch if you run out of detergent. - Flowers
Keep flowers fresh by adding a little mouthwash to the vase. This controls bacteria and slows down decomposition. - After-Piercing Antiseptic
Keep infection away after getting a new piercing by dabbing mouthwash on the area. We recommend using sugar-free mouthwash for best results. - Freshen up the Garbage Can
Try soaking a cotton ball or paper towel with mouthwash and place it directly in the can or garbage bag. This should help decrease stinky smells. - Clean and Freshen Toilet
The antibacterial and odor-killing ingredients in mouthwash make it a great alternative to typical bathroom cleaners. Pour a cup of mouthwash in the toilet and let it soak for about an hour, then scrub as usual. - Blisters and Cuts
For small scratches, cuts, and blisters, apply a cotton ball, q-tip, or paper towel soaked in mouthwash to the wound. The antibacterial properties of mouthwash can act as an alternative if you don’t have ointment. - Clean Glass
Surprisingly, a dab of sugar-free mouthwash combined with water can clean windows. Make sure you test on a small area first before wiping the whole window. Depending on the kind of mouthwash, streaks can get left behind.
The many benefits and uses of mouthwash cannot be overstated. Not only is it great as an antiseptic and antibacterial solution, but it also promotes cost savings at the same time. Just think, you can replace a handful of cleaners and products with just one bottle of your favorite mouth rinse.
At Appletree Dental, your Thornton CO dentist, we want our patients to know how to get their money’s worth from a simple household item like mouthwash. Though mouth rinse can be used a number of ways, make sure you use it to keep your smile bright and healthy first!