Free mouthwash can come in handy in more ways than most people expect. If you’ve ended up with a pile of it from coupons, rebates, or store deals, it makes sense to use it up instead of letting it sit in a cabinet forever.
*This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
A few of these ideas are for quick cleaning jobs, while others are simple freshness tricks that can save you from buying something extra. Just keep in mind that not every bottle works the same way, and a little caution goes a long way when you’re trying something new.
10 Uses for All That Free Mouthwash
1. Make a quick cooling foot soak
Mixing a little mouthwash with shaving cream can create a refreshing foot treatment that helps soften rough skin and leaves feet smelling clean. A clear mouthwash is the safest bet if you want to avoid a temporary bluish-green tint on the skin. Because it can feel cold at first, this is a nice option after a long day on your feet or when heels need a little extra TLC.
2. Freshen glass surfaces that need a reset
Mouthwash can be used on glass surfaces like mirrors and some glass screens when you need a quick cleaning fix. Use a soft cloth and a light touch so you don’t scratch the surface or leave streaks behind. It should not be used on LCD screens, so check the type of screen before trying it.
3. Tackle gym bag funk and sweaty gear
If gym bags, cleats, or sweaty laundry are starting to smell stubborn, a little mouthwash added to the wash cycle may help cut down on odor. This is especially useful for kid sports gear that seems to collect every smell imaginable. It’s not a magic fix for everything, but it can be a nice help when regular detergent isn’t quite enough.
4. Rescue the toilet between deep cleans
When you’re out of regular toilet cleaner, mouthwash can work as a temporary stand-in. Pour some into the bowl, let it sit for about 30 minutes, then scrub and flush. It won’t replace your normal bathroom cleaner routine, but it can help in a pinch when you want something simple and already have it on hand.
5. Give your toothbrush a quick refresh
Mouthwash is often used for mouths, but it can also be used to rinse a toothbrush. That makes it easy to freshen up your brush while putting another bottle to work. It’s a small, practical habit that helps stretch free products a little farther.
6. Deodorize trash cans and small bins
A cotton ball soaked with mouthwash can help freshen the inside of a trash can, diaper pail, or bathroom bin. Place it where it won’t get knocked around, and it may help cut down on stale smells between bag changes. If you don’t want to buy scented liners, this is an easy low-cost way to keep odors in check.
7. Try it for bug-prone outdoor spots
Some people fill a spray bottle with mouthwash and use it as a bug deterrent, especially for camping trips or long hikes. It has also been used to help keep ants away around problem areas. This is more of a handy backup trick than a perfect solution, but it can be useful when you’re trying to use what you already have.
8. Use it carefully on itchy skin irritations
Rubbing mouthwash on poison ivy-affected skin is one old-school home remedy some people use for temporary relief from redness, swelling, and itching. Be careful with irritated skin, though, and stop if it makes the area feel worse. If the rash is severe or spreading, it’s better to follow medical advice instead of experimenting.
9. Keep a bottle near healing piercings
Mouthwash is sometimes used for aftercare with new piercings, especially around the mouth area. The original tip here was to use the gold kind, since it was described as less stingy than others. Even so, it’s smart to be cautious with any healing skin and follow the care instructions from your piercer.
10. Mix up a budget dandruff rinse
A 50/50 mix of water and mouthwash is another way some people have tried to help with dandruff. It’s a simple, inexpensive option if you’re looking for a low-cost experiment before buying a specialty shampoo. If your scalp is sensitive, start carefully and stop if it doesn’t feel right.
How to make the most of free mouthwash
When you’ve got extra bottles, the easiest path is usually to use them for simple tasks first. Start with things like trash cans, toilets, toothbrushes, or a quick freshening job in the laundry room. Those uses are practical, straightforward, and easy to repeat.
If you’re trying to stretch household freebies even further, it helps to keep one bottle in the bathroom, one near the laundry area, and one in a cleaning caddy. That way you’re more likely to use what you already have before buying another product you don’t need.
| Best use | Why it works well | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Trash cans | Helps freshen odors quickly | Keep cotton balls out of reach of kids and pets |
| Toilets | Useful in a cleaning pinch | Not a full replacement for regular cleaner |
| Gym bags and laundry | Can help with stubborn smells | Test on small loads first if you’re unsure |
| Foot soaks | Refreshing for tired feet | May feel cold and can tint skin temporarily |
A few safety notes
Because mouthwash is made for oral use, it’s worth being careful when using it anywhere else. Avoid using it on LCD screens, and don’t use it on irritated skin without thinking through whether it might sting or make the problem worse.
It’s also smart to patch-test anything you’re unsure about, especially on skin or fabric. When something is meant for a very specific purpose, there’s always a chance it won’t behave the same way somewhere else.
Frequently asked questions
Can mouthwash really be used around the house?
Yes, in a few limited ways. People commonly use it for freshening trash cans, cleaning toilets, rinsing toothbrushes, and helping with certain smells. It’s best used as a backup or extra tool, not your only cleaner.
Is it safe to use mouthwash on screens?
It may be used on glass screens, but not on LCD screens. That difference matters, so check the type of screen before trying it.
Will mouthwash help with strong odors?
It can help with some odors, especially in gym bags and trash cans. For really stubborn smells, you may need to repeat the treatment or use a stronger cleaning method too.
What kind of mouthwash works best for these hacks?
Clear mouthwash is often the safest choice for anything where color could stain or tint. That is especially true for foot soaks and other skin-related uses.
Can you use mouthwash for poison ivy?
Some people do, but it should be treated carefully. It may offer temporary relief, but irritated skin can be unpredictable, so stop if it causes more discomfort.
Use it up before it expires
If you’ve got free mouthwash stacked in a bathroom cabinet, putting it to work in a few practical ways can help clear the clutter and save a little money at the same time. The best uses are the simple ones you’ll actually remember: deodorizing, light cleaning, and quick freshening jobs.
You can also pair this kind of stash-busting with other home habits that help you use what you already have. For more budget-minded ideas, try easy no-sew fleece projects for useful homemade items, or browse amazing Christmas tablescape ideas when you want to make everyday things feel a little more special. And if you enjoy practical party savings, Bluey inspired baby shower theme ideas can be a fun place to grab more creative inspiration.
However you use it, free mouthwash is one of those little extras that can quietly pull its weight around the house.