How To Use Tide Pods Beyond Just Laundry
Photo Credit: Canva ProTide Pods are usually tossed straight into the washer without a second thought, but there’s more to these little packets than just clean laundry. Thanks to their compact design and powerful cleaning ingredients, Tide Pods can actually help with several tasks around the home. If you’ve got a few extra pods on hand, here are some clever and practical ways to put them to work in places you might not expect.
1. Garbage Bins
Tide Pods work very well for cleaning out dirty trash cans. Just fill the bin with hot water, drop in a pod, and let it soak for 30 minutes. Swirl the mixture around, scrub the sides and any stubborn spots with a brush, then rinse it out. The pod breaks down built-up grime and helps eliminate any smells. It’s a simple solution that cuts through the worst kind of dirt without much effort.
2. Outdoor Furniture
Patio chairs and plastic tables pick up grime fast, especially after a season outside. Toss a Tide Pod into a bucket of warm water, stir it until it dissolves, and use a sponge or soft brush to scrub down your outdoor furniture. The pod’s mix of detergent and stain-fighting agents helps lift stuck-on messes and brings tired-looking furniture back to life.
3. Shower Curtains and Liners
Vinyl shower curtains and liners can get moldy and stained. Instead of tossing them, try washing them with a Tide Pod. Remove the curtain, place it in the washing machine with a couple of towels (to prevent tearing), and add a pod. Wash on warm and hang it back up to dry. It clears mildew and freshens the curtain without damaging the material.
4. Mop Heads
Reusable mop heads absorb a lot of grime and bacteria over time. To clean them properly, fill a bucket or basin with warm water, drop in a Tide Pod, and let the mop head soak for an hour. Rinse it well and let it dry completely before using it again. This method doesn’t just clean the mop, but also cuts odors and helps it last longer.
5. Pet Bedding
Pet beds get smelly fast and need regular deep cleaning. Toss the cover (or the whole bed if it’s washable) into the machine with a Tide Pod. Choose a gentle cycle with warm water. The pod’s formula is strong enough to remove dirt and odor but still rinses clean, which is important for pets with sensitive skin. Just make sure to rinse it thoroughly.
6. Greasy Kitchen Rags
Kitchen rags and dishcloths soaked in grease can feel impossible to clean with regular detergent. Drop them into a bucket of hot water and dissolve a Tide Pod to help break up oils and stubborn food residue. Soak them for a while before tossing them into the washing machine. They should come out looking brand new, meaning you don’t have to throw them out or replace them.
7. Plastic Storage Bins
Storage bins used in garages, basements, or closets can collect dust, spills, or even mildew. Fill the bin with warm water, drop in a Tide Pod, and let it sit for a bit. Use a brush to scrub corners and lids, then rinse and let dry. It’s a good way to get your containers back to usable condition without using anything that could damage the items being stored within.
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Tide Pods might seem like they only belong in the laundry room, but they’re surprisingly handy in other parts of the house too. With just one pod, you can tackle tough messes, freshen old items, and clean smarter with less waste. Just remember to store them safely out of reach from children and pets, and always rinse well after use. A little creativity can go a long way when it comes to keeping your home clean.
Daniel Mitchell
