Chances are, you already know that your dishwasher can be used for more than just cleaning dishes. In fact, there are all sorts of things that you can clean in a dishwasher, from your kid’s toys to your baseball caps. Here are some surprising things you can clean in a dishwasher, along with some fantastic dishwasher hacks to up your cleaning game.
Dishwasher Cleaning Hacks to Boost Dishwasher Cleaning
If you’re looking to boost your dishwasher’s cleaning power, we’ve compiled together some of the most useful and surprising dishwasher cleaning hacks.
Remove Lime Deposits and Iron Stains in Dishwasher
Use Lemon Kool-Aid to remove dishwasher stains: Save yourself a few bucks on a heavy-duty cleaner and use lemon Kool-Aid (yes, Kool-Aid!) to remove lime deposits and iron stains. The citric acid in lemon Kool-Aid can often help break these down. Make sure to use the concentrated Kool-Aid without sweetener or sugar added.
If you have some Tang hanging around in the cupboard, that will work just as well. Food Grade Citric Acid in an empty load will also do the trick.
Homemade Dishwasher Detergent Tablets
Cut your detergent costs in half by making your own dishwasher tablets! It’s easy to do and can be whipped up using ingredients you likely already have in your home. These simple ingredients include baking soda, borax, and vinegar. For full instructions, check out this recipe courtesy of thekrazycouponlady.com.
Surprising Things You Can Clean in a Dishwasher
Your dishwasher can be used to clean more than just your dishes! Take a look at these surprising things you can clean in a dishwasher, and use some useful tips to multi-task the chores around your home.
Clean Light Fixtures in Dishwasher
When you’re getting ready to move, the amount of cleaning to do can be overwhelming. Use your dishwasher as a quick way to wash all the home’s light fixtures. Remove all the fixtures at once and put them in the dishwasher on a gentle cycle (only run GLASS fixtures, not plastic ones). This will make cleaning your light fixtures a breeze so you can focus on dirtier endeavors (like scraping all the stuck-on food in your oven!).
You can also wash fan grilles, switch plates, and vent covers!! While you wait for the cycle to end, here are a couple more hacks to clean your cupboards and between the glass door on your oven.
Wash Baseball Caps in Dishwasher
Thanks to a clever invention called the Ballcap Buddy Cap Washer, it’s never been easier to get your ball caps to look new again. They fit perfectly on the top rack of a dishwasher, helping keep the hat in its proper shape.
Sterilize Kids Toys and Pet Toys in Dishwasher
You can ensure the toys your kids and pets are playing with are sanitary by running them through a cycle in the dishwasher. Place them in a mesh bag before washing to keep track of them easily. Just be wary of any toys that have the potential to melt (like doll hair).
Clean Dryer Filter and Oven Filter in Dishwasher
Keep your other home appliances, such as your dryer and oven, running smoothly by running the filters through a dishwasher cycle. This can help remove built-up fabric softener from your dryer filter and grease from your oven filter.
