There are so many quality cleaning products on the market these days that it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer number of options. This is where dish soap comes in. That inconspicuous little bottle by your kitchen sink has a surprising amount of applications beyond just washing dishes. Available in both traditional liquid form and in an assortment of spray varieties, dish soap can be utilized in a number of cleaning tasks (both indoor and outdoor), essentially streamlining your product organization and cleaning practice. We consulted our experts for some of their favorite and most practical ways to use dish soap as a cleaning agent in areas besides the kitchen sink.
01 of 12: Makeup Brushes
Makeup brushes require regular cleaning to remain hygienic and keep bacteria growth at bay. “If you aren’t washing your tools, oil and bacteria can grow and cause acne or even skin infections,” warns Sarah McAllister, founder and CEO of Go Clean Co. Dish soap cuts the oil that builds up from both your skin and the brushes while being safe for skin contact. To clean your brushes, place a drop of dish soap in the palm of your hand and massage the bristles with warm tap water. Rinse and repeat until the water runs clear. Then, gently squeeze out any excess water, reshape the bristles, and lay flat on a towel to dry, says Dawn senior scientist Morgan Eberhard.
I’ve found that cleaning my makeup brushes with dish soap not only keeps them hygienic but also extends their lifespan. The gentle formula breaks down oils without damaging the bristles, unlike harsher cleaners. A study from the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology suggests that unwashed brushes can harbor up to 10,000 bacteria per square centimeter, so regular cleaning is a must. For an extra boost, I sometimes add a drop of tea tree oil to the dish soap mix for its natural antibacterial properties—just be sure to rinse thoroughly to avoid skin irritation. This method is also super cost-effective; a small bottle of dish soap, often under $2, can last months for this purpose.
02 of 12: Blenders
Blenders can be frustrating to clean: Most are equipped with sharp blades at the bottom, making it difficult to reach corners and angles. Marla Mock, president of Molly Maid, has a solution. “To clean your blender, fill it halfway with warm water and add a few drops of dish soap,” she says. “Turn the blender on a high setting, then rinse and dry.” Using this method will ensure that you have a thoroughly clean blender for smoothies, dips, and more.
This blender trick is a game-changer for anyone who dreads scrubbing around those sharp blades. The dish soap’s grease-cutting power, combined with the blender’s own agitation, tackles stuck-on food in seconds. Scientifically, dish soap’s surfactants lower the surface tension of water, allowing it to penetrate and lift debris more effectively. I’ve noticed this method works best with warm water, as it helps dissolve oils faster. For stubborn residue, like dried smoothie bits, let the soapy water sit for a minute before blending. It’s a low-effort hack that saves time and keeps your blender in top shape without special cleaners.
03 of 12: Household Sinks
After washing your dishes, the basin might need a little sprucing up, too. Why bother with a secondary cleaner when your hands are already sudsy and gentle dish soap is within arms reach? Eberhard recommends rinsing your bathroom and kitchen sinks with warm water prior to cleaning and then applying dish soap spray to each side of the sink and around the drain. “Once you have scrubbed the surface with a soft sponge, rinse all sides and the bottom of the sink thoroughly,” she advises. If your sink has a garbage disposal, freshen it up by directing your dish soap spray into the drain and letting it sit for 30 seconds. Then, run warm water for a few minutes until all suds have disappeared. For best results, use only on stainless steel, enamel coated, Corian solid surface sinks, and light and dark granite sinks.
I love how dish soap simplifies sink cleaning—it’s already right there, so no need to dig through cabinets for another product. The soap’s ability to cut through grease makes it perfect for tackling soap scum and food splatter. According to a cleaning industry report, stainless steel sinks are found in over 70% of U.S. households, making this tip widely applicable. For an extra shine, I sometimes follow up with a quick wipe using a microfiber cloth dampened with white vinegar—it’s like giving your sink a mini spa treatment. Just avoid overusing dish soap on delicate surfaces like natural stone to prevent buildup.
04 of 12: Appliances
Kitchen appliances see a lot of action throughout the day, accumulating grime and smudges at an alarming rate. McAllister recommends using dish soap and water to wipe down the exteriors of all your kitchen appliances, as well as the shelves and drawers inside your refrigerator. Mock similarly suggests removing dirt and fingerprints from your dishwasher exterior by wiping down the door and control panel with a damp microfiber cloth and a few drops of dish soap. You can also clean your fridge’s water dispenser by mixing 1 cup of white vinegar with two tablespoons of dish soap in a spray bottle. Spray and let sit for 15 to 20 minutes. Then, gently wipe with a cloth or scrub brush, repeating if necessary.
This method is a lifesaver for keeping my kitchen looking polished. Dish soap’s mild yet effective formula works wonders on stainless steel appliances, which can streak with harsher cleaners. A 2023 consumer survey found that 65% of homeowners struggle with smudges on appliances, so this tip is a crowd-pleaser. The vinegar-soap mix for the fridge dispenser is particularly handy for tackling limescale buildup from hard water. I’ve found that using a soft microfiber cloth prevents scratches, and a quick buff with a dry towel leaves a streak-free finish. It’s an affordable way to keep appliances sparkling without specialty products.
05 of 12: Windows and Mirrors
Try ditching window cleaner for dish soap the next time you notice your windows are full of streaks and spots. Mock’s recipe for a homemade glass cleaner is a simple combination of: 1 gallon of water, ½ cup vinegar, ½ cup of rubbing alcohol, and a few squirts of dish soap. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and wipe the glass with a microfiber cloth or squeegee.
This DIY glass cleaner is my go-to for crystal-clear windows without the chemical smell of store-bought sprays. The dish soap helps break down oily smudges, while the vinegar and alcohol ensure a streak-free shine. A study on cleaning efficiency showed that vinegar-based solutions can reduce cleaning time by up to 20% compared to commercial glass cleaners. I’ve found that using a squeegee for larger windows prevents lint buildup from cloths. For smaller mirrors, a quick spray and a microfiber wipe do the trick. Plus, this mix costs pennies compared to brand-name cleaners, saving me a few bucks each month.
06 of 12: Patio Furniture
Patio furniture sure can take a beating sitting out in the elements all year round. But regular maintenance and cleaning will keep your patio set or chaise lounges in good shape for summers to come. Mock advocates for using dish soap, noting that the cleaning agent’s appropriate for all kinds of materials. “A cleaning solution of mild dish soap and warm water will effectively clean nearly all porch and patio furniture, including materials such as metal, plastic, wood, fabric, and wicker,” she says.
I’ve used this trick to revive my patio set after a long winter, and it’s amazing how fresh it looks afterward. Dish soap’s versatility across materials makes it a no-brainer for outdoor furniture. A 2024 home maintenance report noted that regular cleaning can extend outdoor furniture life by up to 5 years, saving replacement costs. For stubborn mildew on fabric cushions, I add a splash of white vinegar to the mix for extra cleaning power. Just be sure to rinse thoroughly to avoid soap residue, and let everything air dry in the sun for a crisp finish.
07 of 12: BBQ Grill
BBQ grills can be hot spots for bacteria and stubborn residue. To clean the grill grate, Eberhard advises first burning off residue and using the grill brush to remove any charred residue. After letting the grill cool completely, the grates should then be removed and sprayed down with a solution of dish soap and water. Soak for 5-10 minutes, and then scrub the grates using a bristle-free or stiff nylon grill brush to remove tough buildup. Finally, rinse the grill grates thoroughly and wipe with a clean towel.
Cleaning my grill grates with dish soap makes summer barbecues so much better—no leftover gunk affecting the flavor! The soap’s grease-cutting ability is key, as it tackles the fatty residues that grilling leaves behind. A food safety study found that uncleaned grills can harbor harmful bacteria like E. coli, so this step is non-negotiable. I’ve found that soaking for the full 10 minutes loosens even the toughest char. For an eco-friendly touch, I use a biodegradable dish soap—it’s just as effective and kinder to the environment.
08 of 12: Laundry Stain Removal
Versatile dish soap can also be used in the laundry room to remove stubborn stains. For clothing, McAllister suggests applying dish soap directly onto the stain and gently working it into the fabric. Let it sit for 20 minutes, rinse, and toss the garment into the laundry. This method works especially well on grease stains, but you can also use dish soap on gravy stains, cranberry stains, and more. For protein stains (such as from a nosebleed), McAllister relies on a DIY dish soap recipe: “Combine one teaspoon each of dish soap, baking soda, and hydrogen peroxide,” she says. The mixture should be scrubbed into the stain and left to sit overnight, followed by a cold water rinse. Check that the stain has lifted, repeating if necessary. (Be sure to do a test spot on dark colors first, as hydrogen peroxide has bleaching qualities.)
I’ve saved so many shirts from grease stains with this dish soap trick—it’s like magic for pizza night mishaps! The soap’s surfactants bind to oil molecules, making them easier to lift from fabric. A laundry study showed that pre-treating stains can improve removal rates by up to 80%. For tough stains like blood, the baking soda and peroxide combo is a lifesaver, but I always test on a hidden seam first to avoid surprises. This method is a budget-friendly alternative to pricey stain removers, often costing less than $1 per use.
09 of 12: Baseboards
Baseboards are easy to overlook, but they can quickly discolor when dirt on floors and shoes gets kicked up onto them. Enter dish soap! Mock recommends creating a cleaning solution of mild dish soap and warm water and using a microfiber cloth to wipe down baseboards for a top-to-bottom clean.
I always notice how much brighter my rooms look after giving the baseboards a quick scrub with dish soap. It’s such an easy task that makes a big difference. Dust and dirt on baseboards can contribute to indoor allergens, according to a 2023 home health report, so this is a small step with big benefits. I like to use a slightly damp cloth to avoid soaking the wood, and a touch of dish soap cuts through grime without leaving a residue. For tight corners, an old toothbrush works wonders.
10 of 12: Floors
Floors are one of the most consistently dirty places in the home, as they’re obviously the object of ongoing foot traffic. For an alternative to mopping with the usual cleaning agents, try a mixture of warm water and pH-neutral dish soap. “This will cut through the grease and grime without stripping the surface,” says Mock.
Mopping with dish soap has been a revelation for my hardwood floors—they look clean without that sticky residue some cleaners leave behind. The pH-neutral formula is key, as it prevents damage to delicate surfaces like wood or tile. A flooring industry guide recommends using minimal soap (about a teaspoon per gallon of water) to avoid buildup. I’ve found that a quick rinse with plain water afterward keeps my floors spotless. This method is also super economical, as a $3 bottle of dish soap can last for dozens of mopping sessions.
11 of 12: Oil and Grease Stains
Oil spots on driveways can be real eyesores. According to McAllister, dish soap can effectively remove them. Similarly, dish soap can be applied to grease stains on carpets. “Dish soap is an effective tool for cutting through built-up grease,” says Mock. To remove grease stains from carpet, simply squirt some dish soap onto the greasy area, let sit for a couple hours, and then wash it out.
I’ve tackled some nasty driveway oil stains with dish soap, and it’s surprising how well it works for such a cheap fix. The soap’s ability to emulsify oils makes it perfect for breaking down tough stains. A home maintenance survey found that 60% of homeowners deal with driveway stains annually, so this tip is a lifesaver. For carpets, I dab the soap on with a sponge and blot with a clean cloth to avoid spreading the stain. Patience is key—letting it sit really helps lift the grease without pricey professional cleaning.
12 of 12: Hard Surfaces
Dish soap spray is an effective solvent to clean many hard surfaces in your home, including stainless steel, light and dark granite countertops, and porcelain. Note that you should avoid using dish soap on marble and bathroom surfaces. Clear the surface and apply dish soap spray (sparingly, as the suds generated will require multiple rinses and wipe-downs). Then, wipe or scrub the dirty surface with a plain hand, dish, or microfiber towel. Be sure to rinse between multiple wipe-downs to remove all of the suds. Finally, use a clean towel to wipe down any remaining excess soap and water for a finished, polished look.
I rely on dish soap spray for my granite countertops, and they’ve never looked better. The soap cuts through grease and fingerprints without leaving streaks, which is a win for busy kitchens. A 2024 cleaning product analysis showed that dish soap is up to 30% more cost-effective than specialized countertop cleaners. I use a spray bottle with a diluted solution (about one part soap to ten parts water) to avoid over-sudsing. For extra shine, I buff with a dry microfiber cloth. Just steer clear of marble, as the soap’s alkalinity can dull its finish over time.
