The Amazing Uses of Rice Washing Water You Probably Didn’t Know

Rice washing water – something most of us pour down the drain every day – is actually a simple yet powerful natural solution with countless uses in daily life. What many people see as waste can, in fact, be transformed into a versatile and eco-friendly helper in your kitchen, bathroom, and beauty routine.

Let’s discover how this humble liquid can make your home cleaner, your food fresher, and even your skin brighter!

1. Bring Back the Shine to Your Pots and Pans

Aluminum, iron, and stainless-steel pots often lose their shine over time, especially when not used frequently. Instead of scrubbing them with harsh chemicals, fill your pot with rice washing water, bring it to a boil, and let it simmer for a few minutes.
Once cooled, pour it out and rinse with clean water. The natural starch and minerals in the rice water help dissolve stains and restore a bright, polished finish — making your cookware look like new again.

💡 Tip: For extra cleaning power, add a few drops of lemon juice or a pinch of baking soda before boiling.

2. Use It as a Natural Dishwashing Solution

Rice washing water can also act as a mild, eco-friendly dishwashing liquid — perfect for cleaning dishes that aren’t too greasy. Its gentle starch content helps lift away light dirt and food residue without damaging your skin.

Use a soft cloth or sponge, dip it into rice water, and clean your dishes as usual. Afterward, rinse them with clean water. This method not only saves detergent but also helps protect the environment by reducing chemical waste.

3. Remove the Fishy Smell from Seafood

If you often cook fish, you know how stubborn that fishy odor can be. Luckily, rice washing water can help!

After rinsing the fish under running water, soak it in a bowl of rice water mixed with a little salt for 10–15 minutes. Then rinse again with clean water before cooking. The natural enzymes in rice water neutralize the smell and leave your fish fresher and cleaner — without affecting the flavor.

4. Clean and De-slime Snails or Shellfish

When preparing snails or clams, removing the slimy texture can be difficult. To fix this, fill a large bowl with rice washing water, add a few chopped chili peppers, and soak the snails for one to two hours.

During this time, the starch encourages the snails to release mud and slime naturally. After soaking, rinse thoroughly — your snails will be clean and ready to cook!

5. Whiten Teeth and Freshen Breath

Few people know that rice washing water can also help improve oral hygiene. Boil the water for about two minutes, then stir in a teaspoon of salt. Use this warm mixture to gargle twice a day — once in the morning and once before bed.

The mild antibacterial properties help eliminate odor-causing bacteria and prevent plaque buildup. You can also use settled rice water as a natural toothpaste substitute to gently polish your teeth. Within a week, you’ll likely notice fresher breath and a whiter smile.

6. Naturally Beautify Your Skin

Modern research shows that rice washing water is rich in antioxidants, vitamin B complexes, and amino acids — all of which help protect your skin from environmental damage, prevent dark spots, and promote a smooth, radiant complexion.

Here’s how it works:

• Deep cleansing: Use rice water as a gentle facial cleanser. It removes dirt, makeup, and excess oil while tightening pores and leaving your skin refreshed.

• Brightening effect: The rice bran residue contains vitamin B5, known for its brightening and rejuvenating properties. Regular use can make your skin look smoother and more luminous.

• Acne prevention: Starch in rice water absorbs excess sebum and unclogs pores, helping reduce blackheads and pimples naturally.

💧 How to use: Let fresh rice washing water sit for about 30 minutes until it separates into two layers. Use the milky part on your face with a cotton pad, or mix it into your favorite mask for extra hydration.

A Simple, Sustainable Secret

Rice washing water is more than just a household byproduct — it’s a natural, zero-waste alternative to many chemical products. By reusing it, you not only save money but also reduce your environmental footprint.

Next time you rinse your rice, don’t let that water go to waste. With a little creativity, it can become your secret ingredient for a cleaner home, fresher food, and glowing skin.