Boiling Water: 8 Essential Cooking & Cleaning Ideas

Deepblue Direct August 13, 2022

Warm weather is finally here, and that means cooking out on the patio and spending time outdoors. Before you heat the grill, check out these eight essential ways to use boiling water around your home. From cleaning the gutter to killing unwanted weeds, boiling water can help make your summer chores that little bit easier. So stock up on some ice cubes and get started!

Unclog your drains

Over time, your drains can become clogged with hair, soap scum, and other debris. As a result, your sink may start to drain more slowly or water may back up into the basin. Fortunately, there is an easy and effective way to unclog your drains: hot water. The high temperature of the water helps to break down grease and soap scum, and the pressure helps to flush out any blockages.

In addition, hot water is less likely to cause damage to your pipes than chemical cleaners. Simply pour a pot of boiling water down the drain and give it a few minutes to work its magic.

Disinfect cutting boards

The cutting board is one of the most important tools in the kitchen, and it's also one of the easiest places for bacteria to grow. To keep your cutting board clean and bacteria-free, it's important to disinfect it regularly. One of the best ways to do this is to expose it to super-hot water. The high temperature will kill any bacteria that are present on the surface of the board.boiling water for disinfecting cutting boards

To disinfect your cutting board, simply fill a sink with boiling water and let the board soak for a few minutes. Then, scrub it with a brush or sponge to remove any lingering bacteria. To remain hygienic, disinfect your cutting board at least once a week between regular washes.

Remove stains from clothes

Unfortunately, stains are an inevitable part of life. Whether you're dealing with a coffee spill or a grass stain, it's important to act quickly to remove the stain before it sets in. The first step is to identify the type of stain you're dealing with. Water-based stains, such as coffee or juice, can usually be treated with soap and hot water.

For oil-based stains, such as grease or makeup, you'll need to use a solvent like rubbing alcohol or vinegar. Once you've identified the type of stain, you can begin working on removing it. If the stain is fresh, start by blotting it with a clean cloth to absorb as much of the liquid as possible. Then, apply your chosen cleaner and let it sit for a few minutes before blotting again. Repeat this process until the stain is gone.

If the stain is stubborn or set in, you may need to pre-treat it with a commercial laundry stain remover or take it to a professional dry cleaner. Either way, remember that stain removal is often a multi-step process, so be patient and persistent for the best results.

Relieve clogged sinuses

When your sinuses become clogged, it can be difficult to breathe and impossible to think straight. The pressure and pain can make it hard to concentrate on anything else. Luckily, there are a few simple things you can do to relieve the pressure and get some much-needed relief.

Using boiling water, you can make a steam tent to help unclog your sinuses and clear your head. Simply fill a large bowl with boiling water and lean over it, draping a towel over your head to trap the steam. Breathe in deeply for 10 minutes, and you should start to feel the pressure in your sinuses begin to ease.

Clean your gutters and downspouts

As any homeowner knows, gutters and downspouts are an essential part of the home’s drainage system. During heavy rains, they help to channel water away from the foundation and prevent flooding. However, over time, gutters and downspouts can become clogged with leaves, twigs, and other debris. If left untreated, this can lead to serious problems such as water damage, foundation cracks, and even mould growth.

The best way to clean gutters and downspouts is with hot water. The high temperature will help to dissolve any stubborn dirt and grime, making the cleaning process much easier. In addition, boiling water can kill any mould or mildew that may be present.

Remove oil and grease stains

Oil and grease stains can be some of the most difficult stains to remove. They are often caused by cooking oil, automotive fluids, or cosmetics. If you have an oil or grease stain on your clothing, there are a few things you can do to try to remove it.

First, blot the area with a clean white cloth to absorb as much of the stain as possible. Then, apply a pre-treatment solution to the stain and let it sit for a few minutes. Next, wash the item in the hottest water that is safe for the fabric. Our hot water taps are easily adjustable so you can change the temperature to your preference.

You may need to repeat these steps multiple times before the stain is completely gone. A boiling water tap can save you a lot of time with this, however, with patience and perseverance, you should be able to remove most oil and grease stains from your clothing.

Sterilise baby bottles

It's important to sterilise baby bottles to protect your little one from harmful bacteria. One way to do this is to instantly sterilise them with a boiling water tap. Simply place the bottles in the sink and let the piping hot water from the tap run over them for a few minutes. The high temperature will kill any bacteria that may be present, making the bottles safe for use. Once you're finished, be sure to rinse the bottles thoroughly and let them air dry before using them again.disinfecting a baby bottle with hot water

Kill unwanted weeds

Weeds are an unwelcome sight in any garden, and they can be difficult to get rid of. One of the most effective ways to kill weeds is by boiling them. The extreme heat will damage the plant's cells, causing it to wilt and die. Boiling water is also a great way to kill weed seeds, preventing them from germinating.

To use this method, simply bring a pot of water to a boil and then pour it over the weeds. Be careful not to splash the boiling water on any desirable plants, as they will also be damaged. With a little effort, you can keep your garden looking neat by using boiling water to kill unwanted weeds.

FAQ

Does Hot Water Kill Germs?

Yes, hot water does kill germs. The high temperature of boiling water helps to break down the cell walls of bacteria, causing them to die. This is why boiling water is often used as a disinfectant. It's important to note that hot water alone will not kill all germs. For example, it cannot kill spores or viruses. However, it is an effective way to kill bacteria, making it a useful tool in the fight against illness.

How Long Does Boiling Water Take to Kill Germs?

Boiling water will kill most bacteria in about 10 minutes. However, it takes longer to kill some bacteria, such as those that cause tuberculosis and Legionnaires' disease. It also takes longer to kill viruses, which are not affected by boiling water. To be safe, you should boil water for at least 1 minute to ensure that all bacteria are killed.

How Hot Should Water Be for Hand Washing?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend washing your hands with water that is at least 38°C. This temperature is hot enough to kill most bacteria, but it is not so hot that it will cause skin irritation or scalding. When washing your hands, be sure to use soap and scrub them for at least 20 seconds. This will help to remove any dirt or bacteria that may be present.

How Does Boiling Water Make It Safe to Drink?

Boiling water makes it safe to drink by killing harmful bacteria that may be present. Because only 1% of the world's water is suitable for drinking, it's important to know that boiling water can make it safer to drink in desperate circumstances.

It is important to note that boiling water will not remove all contaminants from the water. For example, it will not remove heavy metals or chemicals. However, it is an effective way to kill bacteria, making it a useful tool for purifying water.

How Long Do You Have to Boil Water for It to Be Safe to Drink?

The CDC recommends boiling water for at least 1 minute to kill most bacteria. However, it is important to note that some bacteria are more resistant to heat than others. For example, it takes longer to kill the bacteria that cause Legionnaires' disease. It also takes longer to kill viruses, which are not affected by boiling water. To be safe, you should boil water for at least 1 minute to ensure that all bacteria are killed.

Conclusion

Boiling water is an incredibly versatile tool to have in your home. It can be used for everything from cooking pasta to cleaning the floors. With a little creativity, you can use boiling water to make your life easier and get your chores done faster. Have you tried using boiling water to clean or cook? What tips do you have for our readers? Let us know in the comments!

Feeling inspired? Access boiling water instantly with a hot water tap.