Dishwashers are a godsend, especially around the holidays. When you spend hours painstakingly making the perfect meal from scratch, the last thing you want to do as you cradle your food baby is the washing up.
However, these machines can do a lot more than just wash the dishes. The problem is that almost none of us know about them! These secret uses are particularly important for parents to know. When you've got a little human running around, you need to make the most of anything and everything that can make your life easier.
So, without further ado, here are 12 secret uses for your dishwasher that will revolutionize your cleaning game...
1. Sponges and dishrags
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Sure, you can put these items in the washing machine, but let's face it, no one wants to put on a clean shirt only to find that it's got a piece of mummified pasta stuck on it. So why not pop them in the dishwasher instead? Easy.
2. Light fixture
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This is an item which you wouldn't dare put in the washing machine, but it needs to be cleaned on the reg nonetheless. However, you don't necessarily need to use your elbow grease on your light fixtures. Just pop them in the dishwasher instead.
3. Vacuum accessories
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Just like light fixtures, you wouldn't dare put vacuum accessories in the washing machine, but you know that they need to be cleaned regularly. This is especially the case if you have furry friends in your house. Luckily, they can be easily cleaned in the washing machine too.
4. Van vents and covers
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If you've ever tried to clean a van vent/cover by hand, then you'll know that it's a nigh impossible task - even if you have a thin duster. But once again - you can pop them into the dishwasher.
5. Fruits and vegetables
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Okay, this is a great way to save yourself a lot of time when cooking, but obviously, you'll only want to put on a simple dishwasher with no detergent in it if you're using it to clean your fruit and vegetables.
6. Children's toys
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Because they're the only thing which gets dirtier faster than your kids' clothes!
7. Pet toys
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Okay, I take that back. Pet toys are worse. It's a good thing that they can all easily be cleaned in the dishwasher.
8. Shoes
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While I have tried to clean my shoes in the washing machine before, I can attest to the fact that the dishwasher does a better job. Seriously, try it out. Your sneakers will be left looking like new no matter how dirty they were.
9. Brushes
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Cleaning brushes in the sink can be a seriously time-consuming task. Don't sweat it though. The dishwasher has your back.
10. Hats
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They might not be the first item on your list when it comes to cleaning your clothes, but in the summer, hats can get very sweaty. No matter. Just pop them in the dishwasher too.
11. Shower caddy
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Yeah... Don't even think about cleaning this item by hand. It's far too complicated. Let the dishwasher do the hard work for you.
12. Sports equipment
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While there is a limit to the size of the sports equipment that you can put in the dishwasher, it's another item that can and does get seriously grubby over time. So why not give it a spring clean in the dishwasher?
Who'd have thought that dishwashers could do so much more than just keep your plates spick and span? Seriously. Cleaning is only as hard as you make it. With the right knowledge, you'll be a regular Mrs. Hinge in no time!