10 Things You Can Do With Listerine Besides Freshen Your Breath
Listerine is a household staple that has been around since 1879. It is most often associated with freshening breath and killing germs, but there are actually many more uses for this versatile product.
Whether you’re looking for a new way to clean your home or a creative solution to beauty issues, you’ll be surprised at all the things you can do with this classic mouthwash! Here are some uses for Listerine that you may not have considered.
1. Treat Acne
Believe it or not, Listerine can be used to treat acne. The antiseptic and antibacterial properties of the mouthwash make it an effective treatment for clearing up blemishes. Simply dab a cotton swab with the solution onto your pimple and let it sit for 10 minutes before rinsing it off with water.
2. Cleaning Surfaces
Many people don’t know that Listerine can effectively clean and disinfect surfaces around your home. When mixed with water, it can be used on countertops and other hard surfaces.
The antiseptic properties make it perfect for sanitizing areas where food is prepared or served, such as kitchen counters and dining tables.
3. Treat Athlete’s Foot
Can this really be true? Absolutely! Listerine can be used to treat an athlete’s foot and prevent it from spreading. The antifungal and antiseptic properties of the mouthwash eliminate the fungus that causes this condition, while its soothing effect helps reduce itching and discomfort.
To use, simply soak your feet in a mixture of 1/2 cup Listerine and 1/2 cup warm water for 30 minutes a day.
Further Reading: 9 Home Remedies for Athlete’s Foot
4. Killing Mold
Mold and mildew can build up in dark, damp places such as bathrooms, toilets, and basements. To get rid of these pesky growths, try spraying them with a solution made from one part Listerine to parts water. The antiseptic ingredients in the solution will kill off any mold or mildew quickly and easily!
5. Relieve Insect Bites
If you’ve been bitten by an insect, just soak a cotton ball in Listerine and apply it to the affected area. It will reduce redness and swelling and help relieve itching caused by bug bites or stings.
6. Soothes Sore Throats
Not only does Listerine help freshen your breath, but it can also soothe a sore throat. Gargling with the solution helps to reduce inflammation, kill germs and ease the pain.
7. Get Rid of Dandruff
Listerine can also be used to treat dandruff. The antiseptic properties of Listerine can help to kill the fungus that causes dandruff. Additionally, the menthol in Listerine can help to soothe the scalp and reduce itchiness.
All you have to do is mix equal parts of Listerine and water and massage it into your scalp. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes before rinsing with warm water.
8. Treating Foot Odor
If you suffer from stinky feet, then give this trick a try! Soak your feet in 1/2 cup Listerine mixed with 2 cups warm water for 30 minutes every day until the odor subsides. This method helps kill off any bacteria that may be causing the smell while also deodorizing your feet at the same time!
Further Reading: 6 Home Remedies for Foot Odor
9. Removing Stains
If you have stubborn stains on fabrics or carpets that regular detergents won’t remove, give Listerine a try! Mix equal parts water with Listerine and spray it onto the fabric or carpet before using a brush to scrub away the stain. This method should work even on tough stains like red wine or oil-based paint.
10. Kill Head Lice
If you or someone in your family has been dealing with head lice, try using Listerine as an effective treatment! To kill head lice, soak hair thoroughly in Listerine and cover your hair with a shower cap for at least 30 minutes. Then, wash your hair thoroughly with warm water. The antiseptic properties will work to kill any lice present.
Further Reading: 4 Benefits of Soaking Your Feet in Listerine
