When wandering through the grocery store, you’re most likely to come across Tang in the beverage aisle. But some would argue that this powdered drink mix should actually be stocked among the cleaning supplies. That’s because Tang can do far more than just quench your thirst — it can also leave your dishwasher sparkling clean.…
Tang — Not Just for Astronauts
Powdered Tang is naturally acidic and boasts a high citric acid content. Citric acid has long been used as a natural alternative to harsher cleaning products, making Tang a surprisingly useful tool for breaking down hard water deposits or built-up soap scum inside the dishwasher. Plus, because Tang is biodegradable and nontoxic, you won’t have to worry about harmful chemicals coming into contact with your kitchenware.
To clean your dishwasher with Tang, first remove all dishes, glasses, and utensils so the appliance is completely empty. Next, run a normal, hot water cycle for about six minutes to help loosen any grime inside. Once those six minutes have elapsed, pause the cycle and open the door.
Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of Tang into the bottom of the dishwasher. There will most likely be some standing water that will mix with the orange-flavored powder, but add the Tang regardless. Shut the door and let the cycle continue, during which the hot water and Tang will work in tandem to break down all that gunk.
Do not put powdered Tang into the dishwasher’s detergent compartment. Doing so could potentially damage your appliance, as it’s only designed to accommodate low-foaming detergent.
More from our network
House Outlook is part of Optimism, which publishes content that uplifts, informs, and inspires.
Once the cycle is complete, your dishwasher should look noticeably cleaner. If any stubborn spots remain, simply run another cycle as described above until they’re eliminated. As a bonus, the Tang will leave behind a pleasant citrus scent. Repeat this process monthly to maintain a clean appliance, free of hard water deposits and nasty soap scum.
The Surprising Versatility of Tang
Joey Green has spent years compiling alternative uses for brand-name products on his Wacky Uses blog. When it comes to Tang, Green suggests using it to clean toilet bowls: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of powdered Tang around the bowl, let it sit for an hour, use a toilet brush to remove any stains, and flush.
Tang can also be used to deter cats from scratching certain areas of your home. Cats are naturally averse to citrus, including oranges. Mix 2 cups of isopropyl alcohol with ½ teaspoon of orange-flavored Tang mix in a spray bottle. Spray it onto chair legs, couch corners, or any other potential problem areas. (We recommend conducting a spot test first to ensure the mixture doesn’t damage the fabric or finish.) This should prevent your furry little menace from scratching up the furniture without causing them harm.
