Alternative Uses for Mouthwash – Sage Dental Care

Mouthwash is a great way to keep your breath fresh and mouth clean, however, it should be used as a supplement, not a replacement, for brushing and flossing. And did you know that mouthwash wasn’t actually designed for your mouth when it was initially created?

Let’s explore the history of mouthwash and alternative ways you can use this minty fresh substance.

The History of Mouth Rinse

Mouthwash came on the scene in 1879 and was intended to be used as a surgical disinfectant, which makes sense, since it is after all, an antiseptic.

As the medical practices continued to advance, rinse wasn’t so common, however, became a perfect tool for a squeaky-clean mouth! Today, there are plenty of uses for alcohol-based mouthwash.

Five Lesser Known Uses for Mouthwash

1. Fresher Flower Enhancer: if you want to keep your stems fresh, simply add a capful of mouthwash into your vase water and enjoy your fresh bouquet of flowers!
2. Dry Scalp Treatment: dandruff is caused by a fungus that leads to skin overgrowth and can be effectively treated with a strong antibacterial treatment. Simply mix 1-part mouthwash, 1-part witch hazel and 8 parts water in a spray bottle. Then spritz away!
3. Athlete’s Foot Treatment: fungal infections like athlete’s foot can be treated with a mouthwash that contains alcohol and antiseptic ingredients. Soak a cotton ball in your mouthwash and wipe over the affected areas of your feet.
4. Washing Machine Refresher: sometimes our washing machine can develop a musty odor, which means it is time to be cleaned. Add about a capful of alcohol-based sugar free mouthwash to your next load and voila, no more smell! Keep in mind, mouthwash can stain colored clothing so stick to this method strictly on your load of whites.
5. Deodorant: in order to kill odorous bacteria, deodorant houses ingredients like methyl salicylate, eucalyptol and thymol. These ingredients are also present in mouthwash! So if you don’t have your favorite brand of DO handy, simply saturate a cotton ball with your mouthwash and apply to your armpits.

Who knew mouthwash could be so handy! Whether you use your mouthwash for one of these hacks or for its main purpose, don’t forget to brush and floss.