Rice Water: A Free, Natural Cleaner You Probably Forget About

As a natural ingredient, few people know that rice water can be used to clean household items easily, effectively, and without chemicals.

When it comes to cleaning, we often think of countless tools and products—but they all come at a cost. However, here’s a clever tip: a simple, highly effective cleaning method that is chemical-free and costs nothing at all.

Rice is a staple in our lives, but not many realize that rice water—the water used to rinse rice—is actually a valuable resource. It can be used to clean various household items simply and efficiently.

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Why Rice Water Works

Instead of wasting the rice water before cooking, it’s important to know that it contains starches and minerals from the rice surface, which have many useful properties.

All you need to do is keep the rice water in a container and use it as a natural cleaning solution, replacing chemical cleaners that cost money and may affect health. Rice water can be used for washing dishes, cleaning the kitchen, and household items.

Experts confirm that rice water is effective and completely safe, with no side effects.

Note: Rice water is not effective for greasy items. Detergents work on oils and fats because they are alkaline (pH 8 or higher), while rice water is slightly acidic, with a pH around 6. Therefore, it is not ideal for removing oil-based grime.

Acidic cleaners, however, are good for removing mineral deposits, hard water stains, or light rust. Rice water can be used on ceramic sinks, kitchenware, bathtubs, copper items, and any surface you would normally clean with vinegar or lemon. Because rice water is mildly acidic, avoid using it on surfaces that could be damaged by acids, such as stone or unbaked cement.

Tip: Only use rice water on non-greasy items like household objects, sinks, and bathtubs. Avoid using it on items prone to rust.

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How to Make Rice Water for Cleaning

1. Soak a bowl of rice in water and rub the grains until the water turns milky.

2. Strain the rice water into a separate container. You can cook the rice directly without rinsing it again.

3. Use a clean cloth soaked in the rice water to wipe and clean the surfaces or items you want to clean.

Storage Tip: If you don’t use all the rice water, store it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to one week.

With these few simple steps, you can add a highly effective, safe, and cost-free cleaning method to your routine.