Because I like to be prepared for any situation, my medicine cabinet is absolutely overflowing with all kinds of natural and drugstore products.
And while I've used several of these bathroom items for surprising health and household hacks — like my ever-useful container of VapoRub — I never thought that my bottle of Listerine was anything more than simple mouthwash … until now.
There are actually quite a few unexpected alternative uses for Listerine. I can use it as underarm deodorant, toenail fungus remover, and flea repellent for my dog. I never knew how helpful this mouthwash could really be.
Scroll through this exclusive list below to see how many unbelievably creative ways there are to utilize ordinary Listerine. I'm definitely going to be trying them out myself!
Why Listerine?
You may only use Listerine as a mouthwash, but its inventors had so much more in mind.
The Krazy Coupon Lady writes: "Did you know Listerine, which was formulated in 1879, was originally developed as a surgical antiseptic and, historically, has been used for all sorts of things? It actually wasn't marketed for bad breath until the 1970s!"
And with so many helpful ingredients in Listerine — such as thyme, eucalyptus, and alcohol — it's no wonder this product is being used in so many creative ways.
Rub It on Armpits
Have you ever found yourself without deodorant at a very inopportune moment?
Well, Listerine is great for fighting underarm odors whenever you are in a pinch!
Simply pour some Listerine onto a cotton ball and gently dab it under your arms.
Soak Feet in It
According to Top 10 Home Remedies, Listerine may help get rid of toenail fungus.
Simply make yourself a Listerine foot bath and allow your toes to soak for half an hour.
Some even recommend mixing in a little bit of white vinegar for particularly bad cases.
Pour It Down the Toilet
It might seem like you are throwing money down the toilet, but Listerine can actually clean and deodorize your bowl.
All you have to do is pour a little in and use your toilet brush to give things a light scrub.
Today writes, "Several cleaning experts recommend pouring a quarter cup of mouthwash into your toilet and letting it sit for at least 30 minutes," then giving it a scrub.
Dab It on Itches
As weird as it sounds, dabbing Listerine on your itchy bug bites can give you some much-needed relief.
Dental hygienist Carrie Ibbetson writes, "Listerine is my go-to source for stopping bug bites from itching like crazy."
She also recommends using it for itchy reactions to poison ivy or poison oak.
Wet Hair With It
Surprisingly, Listerine was once marketed as a way to get rid of dandruff!
Though it never became quite popular enough for this use, many (such as InStyle) suggest giving it a try.
Simply massage some Listerine onto the scalp, wrap your hair in a towel, and wash it out after you've allowed it to do its work!
Repel Fleas
Many pet owners skip expensive flea sprays and products, instead opting for a little bit of Listerine.
This flea-fighting method is a surprising alternative to sometimes harsh chemicals.
According to the Krazy Coupon Lady, try "mixing it with shampoo in a bath or diluting it with water and using it as a spray."
Try It on Acne
Many will use this mouthwash as a way to battle acne!
One happy Listerine user writes in the Seattle Times: "I have tried all types of antibiotics and topical prescriptions on the market.
"Nothing has worked as well as applying Listerine morning and night."
Use It as a Toothbrush Soak
Just as Listerine is able to battle germs in your mouth, it can take care of the yucky germs on your toothbrush as well.
Fill your nightstand glass with a little bit of the mouthwash and let your toothbrush soak.
A couple of hours should be more than enough to do the trick!
Clean a Screen
People might think you are crazy to spray Listerine onto your computer or television screen, but it is a great way to clean things off.
Spray some on and use a soft cloth to wipe away fingerprints and unwanted gunk.
An added bonus will be the minty smell, as opposed to the "chemical smell" often accompanying normal cleaning products.
Be warned: This may damage some screens, so check your device's instructions before you try this.
Toss It in the Trash
Powerful garbage can odors can make your kitchen smell absolutely terrible.
But before you throw any garbage in the bag, put a Listerine-soaked paper towel in the bottom.
This will keep things smelling fresh and minty!
*Disclaimer: The advice on LittleThings.com is not a substitute for consultation with a medical professional or treatment for a specific condition. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem without consulting a qualified professional. Please contact your health-care provider with questions and concerns.
