When you're out of specialized cleaners, a common hair care product might be the answer. Professional cleaners suggest that shampoo, particularly baby shampoo, can effectively handle a range of household cleaning tasks, from lifting grease stains to refreshing dull surfaces. While not a substitute for heavy-duty cleaning, it offers a convenient solution for everyday messes.
Kathy Turley, marketing director at Home Clean Heroes, and Petya Holevich, house cleaning expert at Fantastic Services, shared their insights on how shampoo's grease-cutting properties can be repurposed. The key, they note, is using a mild formula like baby shampoo, which is free from dyes and fragrances, to avoid discoloration or residue.
Grease Stains on Fabric and Carpets
For fresh or stubborn grease stains on clothing or upholstery, Turley recommends dabbing—not scrubbing—a small amount of shampoo onto the stain with a damp cloth. The surfactants in shampoo help break down oils, making it a quick fix for food spills. Similarly, Holevich suggests diluting shampoo in warm water for spot-treating area rugs and carpets, gently blotting the area before rinsing. This method works because shampoo lowers water's surface tension, allowing it to penetrate fibers and lift grime without harsh chemicals.
Floors, Plants, and Metal Surfaces
Adding a few drops of shampoo to your mop water can give tile and linoleum floors an extra cleaning boost, according to Turley. For indoor plants, a diluted shampoo spray can remove dust from leaves and may help deter pests. On stainless steel and chrome fixtures like faucets, a shampoo-and-water mixture can wipe away fingerprints and water spots, restoring shine.
Brushes and Final Tips
Makeup and hair brushes accumulate oils and residue over time; shampoo is an effective cleanser. Turley advises using baby shampoo for makeup brushes due to its gentle, non-irritating formula. Swirl brushes in a diluted solution, rinse thoroughly, and let them air dry.
While these hacks are handy, both experts caution against relying on shampoo for deep cleaning. For routine touch-ups, however, it's a versatile and accessible option.
