25 Amazing Murphy’s Oil Soap Hacks You Need In Your Home

If you’re on the lookout for affordable and versatile cleaning products, you might be surprised by how effective some alternatives can be. One standout option is Murphy’s Oil Soap. While many people know it as a wood polish, this soap actually has a wide range of uses that can make it a true multitasker in your cleaning routine!

Whether you’re concerned about allergens, aiming to be more environmentally friendly, or just looking to save some money, Murphy’s Oil Soap is an excellent choice. It’s gentle on surfaces but tough on dirt and grime, making it a fantastic addition to your cleaning supplies.

So, if you’re ready to discover the many ways you can use Murphy’s Oil Soap, let’s explore 25 surprising uses that might just inspire you to keep a bottle on hand! You’ll be amazed at how this single product can tackle so many cleaning tasks around your home.

1. BATHROOM CLEANER

Murphy’s Oil Soap is a fantastic all-in-one cleaner for your bathroom, especially on those days when you want to skip the hassle of dragging multiple cleaners in with you. It’s a quick and easy solution that simplifies your cleaning routine.

All you need to do is mix it with water to create a powerful cleaning solution. You can use it on everything—from the walls and floors to sinks, counters, toilets, and showers. With just this one product, you can achieve a thorough clean for the entire room, making it an efficient choice for tackling tough messes without the clutter of multiple bottles.

2. CLOTHING STAIN REMOVER

Sometimes, you need a cleaning solution that’s as natural as it is effective, and Murphy’s Oil Soap fits the bill perfectly. It’s excellent for lifting stubborn stains from clothing, without the harshness of bleach.

When you encounter tough stains on your laundry, give this soap a try. Just apply a bit of the solution at full strength directly to the stained area, then toss the item into the washing machine. You’ll be impressed by how well it works to refresh your clothes while keeping things more natural!

3. LEATHER CONDITIONER

This versatile cleaner is also fantastic for maintaining leather. You can use Murphy’s Oil Soap as a leather conditioner for furniture, your vehicle’s dashboard, or upholstery (just avoid cloth materials).

To use it, apply the soap at full strength to a dry cloth. Gently rub it into the leather, being careful not to soak it too much. Then, take a second cloth to buff the surface. This process not only makes the leather shine but also leaves it smelling fresh and clean!

4. INSECT REPELLENT

Murphy’s Oil Soap can even help repel insects, thanks to its unique chemical compounds and pleasant scent.

To create a natural insect repellent for your landscaping and garden, mix 1 cup of rubbing alcohol, 1 cup of water, 1 tablespoon of Murphy’s Oil Soap, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. This solution is safe for your plants since it’s made mostly from natural ingredients. You can apply it directly to the soil or spray it on your garden plants to keep those pesky insects at bay!

5. CLEANING PLASTIC SURFACES

Oil-based cleaners are fantastic for tackling plastic surfaces, and Murphy’s Oil Soap is especially great for this purpose! You can use it to clean a variety of plastic items around your home, like your trash can, standing fan, or even your A/C unit.

To get started, just dab a small amount of the soap onto a dry cloth. Then, simply wipe it over the plastic surface you want to clean. It’s really that easy! If you want to give it an extra shine, flip the cloth over or grab a microfiber cloth to buff it up. You’ll be amazed at how quickly it brings out the shine and freshness of those plastic items. Plus, using Murphy’s Oil Soap helps keep your home looking neat without needing a ton of different products. It’s a simple way to make cleaning a bit more effective!

6. POLISHING METAL

Another great way to use Murphy’s Oil Soap is for polishing metal surfaces around your home or in spaces like a machine shop, dance studio, or pub.

Just grab a microfiber cloth and dab a pea-sized amount of the soap onto it. Then, rub the metal surface in a circular motion. It’s a quick and easy one-step process that can work wonders on sinks, faucets, metal bars, stool legs, or just about any metal piece you can think of. You’ll be impressed by how shiny and clean everything looks with just a little effort! Plus, it’s a simple way to keep your metal surfaces looking their best without using a bunch of different products.

7. Polish Horse Tack

A lot of horse tack, like bridles, harnesses, and leads, is made from leather, metal, or a combination of both. Keeping Murphy’s Oil Soap handy is a great way to clean these items quickly!

For pieces that need a thorough wash, simply mix half a cup of Murphy’s Oil Soap into a bucket of water and give them a good wash. After that, just let them dry. For items that just need a wipe-down or buffing, use a small amount of soap on a cloth and get to work. You’ll love how they shine up beautifully! It’s a simple and effective way to keep your tack looking its best.

8. Cleaning Wheels and Hub Caps

Bring Murphy’s Oil Soap along the next time you clean your car, especially for the wheels and hubcaps. You can use it at full strength for tough grime, or you can mix a quarter cup of the soap into a liter of water until it dissolves. This makes it a quick and easy option for a deep clean or just an added boost in your regular car cleaning routine.

What’s great about Murphy’s Oil Soap is that it’s not just a cleaner; it also conditions surfaces, making it a fantastic two-in-one solution. Your wheels and hubcaps will look shiny and well-maintained with just a little effort!

9. Car Cleaner

If you find yourself out of shampoo or just want a more cost-effective and efficient cleaner, Murphy’s Oil Soap is a great alternative for cleaning your entire car. You can use it to wipe down your dashboard and steering wheel, and if you add a pea-sized amount to your vacuum foam, it can help clean your car seats, too.

One of the best things about Murphy’s Oil Soap is its concentration. It lasts longer than many regular shampoos or liquid soaps, and you can buy it in larger quantities for a fraction of the price. So not only do you get a versatile cleaner, but you also save money while keeping your car looking fresh and clean!

10. Potter’s Wheel Lubricant

If you’re an artist like me, you know that potter’s wheel lubricant can be pretty pricey. Without it, you have to wait for your clay to dry completely before removing it from the wheel, which can lead to cracks. Plus, that annoying squeaking sound of the wheel can be really distracting and ruin the therapeutic vibe of your work.

Keeping an all-around lubricant handy is essential, and Murphy’s Oil Soap is perfect for this! You can use it to lubricate the parts of your potter’s wheel. If this is your primary use for it, you’ll find that it lasts even longer. It’s a simple and cost-effective solution that helps keep your creative process smooth and enjoyable!

11. Paint Brush Cleaner

After using oil paint, it’s common to leave brushes soaking in a thinning solution to avoid ruining them. However, this can break down the brush fibers over time, leading to the need for frequent replacements.

You can save your brushes and some cash by using Murphy’s Oil Soap instead! It effectively soaks away the oil paint while also conditioning your bristles, helping them last longer. Plus, since it doesn’t contain alcohol, it’s a great alternative that’s gentle on your brushes. This way, you can keep your tools in top shape and enjoy your painting without the worry of constant replacements!

12. Cleaning Jewelry

I’ve recently discovered that Murphy’s Oil Soap is fantastic for cleaning jewelry! To get started, simply mix 1 cup of Murphy’s Oil Soap with a liter of warm water.

Then, using a soft brush or a gentle cleaning tool, polish the surface of your necklaces, rings, bracelets, and any other pieces. Once you’ve cleaned them, make sure to rinse your jewelry thoroughly until all the soap residue is gone. After rinsing, you can hang your pieces or lay them on an absorbent cloth to dry. This method not only cleans but also helps keep your jewelry looking shiny and new!

13. Swiffer Wet Jet Refill

One of the biggest reasons I steer clear of the Swiffer WetJet is the cost of those refills. If you feel the same way, you might just find a solution with Murphy’s Oil Soap!

This oil soap is highly concentrated and works wonderfully as both a cleaner and a conditioner, making it great for wood floors as well as tile. All you need to do is dilute it to your preference and pour it into a refill container. The best part? It won’t leave your floors cloudy or overly slippery. It’s a budget-friendly alternative that keeps your floors looking clean and well-maintained!

14. Cleaning Wooden Banisters

Wood banisters can accumulate a surprising amount of dirt and grime over the years, especially as we enjoy them but often neglect their care. Dust settles into the grooves and cracks, dulling their shine and beauty.

If your banisters are looking lackluster, you can easily restore them with Murphy’s Oil Soap! Just take a cloth or a brush and apply a small amount of the soap at full strength. Wipe down the banisters, paying special attention to those hard-to-reach crevices. You’ll be amazed at how quickly they regain their luster and charm!

15. Homemade Cleaning Wipes

After having my daughter, I really started to appreciate homemade wipes and reusable cleaning items. Murphy’s Oil Soap is a fantastic option for making your own reusable wipes!

To create them, just mix a quarter tablespoon of the oil soap with a cup of water. Let the soap dissolve, then pour the solution over a stack of cloths. Give the cloths a chance to soak up the liquid, and you’re all set! After each use, simply rinse the cloths and let them dry, and you’ll have a sustainable cleaning solution that’s gentle yet effective. It’s a simple way to keep things clean while being eco-friendly!

16. Cleaning Laminate Floors

Laminate floors can quickly become cloudy or even damaged if you use the wrong cleaning products. That’s why Murphy’s Oil Soap is such a great choice—it’s gentle on your floors but tough on dirt.

To clean your laminate wood floors, just add 1 cup or less of the oil soap to your mop bucket. Then, give your floors a quick wipe. This will lift away any stains without the need for additional cleaning agents or solutions. It’s an easy and effective way to keep your laminate looking clean and beautiful!

17. Cleaning Permanent Marker

If you home-school or often use permanent markers, you know how frustrating it can be when those markers end up on porous surfaces or even your whiteboard. It’s a common worry, but with Murphy’s Oil Soap, you can relax knowing it can help you clean up those pesky marks.

To remove permanent marker stains, just use the soap at full strength. Apply a little to a cloth or board cleaner and wipe away the marks. It works wonders on all kinds of surfaces, so you don’t have to stress about any accidents. It’s such a relief to have a reliable solution on hand, especially when creativity strikes and things get a little messy! Plus, using Murphy’s Oil Soap means you can tackle those stubborn stains without damaging the surface underneath.

18. Homemade All-purpose Cleaner

If you live in a household where all-purpose cleaners often trigger allergic reactions or are just too pricey, making your own is a breeze! All you need is 3 cups of water, 1 tablespoon of Murphy’s Oil Soap, and 2 tablespoons of baking soda.

Simply mix these ingredients in a spray bottle and give it a good shake. You can use this homemade cleaner on all your surfaces and in those tricky crevices around your home, office, or car. It’s a simple solution that works effectively and helps you avoid any harsh chemicals. Plus, you’ll love how easy and cost-effective it is to keep your spaces clean and fresh!

19. Cleaning dried-up paint off Stencils

Artists know that stencils can quickly accumulate a lot of paint from all the different mediums we use, whether it’s oil, water, or acrylic. This build-up can make them tough to clean, but it doesn’t have to be a hassle!

To easily clean your stencils, mix up a solution of Murphy’s Oil Soap and water—just 1 tablespoon of soap to 1 cup of water. Soak your stencils in this mixture for about an hour, then rinse them off. If you come across any stubborn dried paint, a gentle scratch should help remove it. This method will keep your stencils looking fresh and ready for your next creative project!

20. Amplify Magic Eraser

If you prefer a one-and-done cleaning solution, you probably have a set of magic erasers handy. However, even these handy tools can struggle with tougher messes.

I’ve noticed that my magic erasers sometimes tear when faced with more challenging jobs. But you can supercharge their cleaning power by adding Murphy’s Oil Soap! Just create a solution of Murphy’s Oil Soap and water, and use it alongside your magic eraser. This combo makes for a magically effective clean, helping you tackle even the toughest stains with ease! You’ll love how much more effective your cleaning routine becomes!

21. Carpet Stain Remover

Another great way to boost your cleaning power is by using Murphy’s Oil Soap to tackle stains on carpets. There are a couple of effective methods you can try.

First, you can add Murphy’s Oil Soap to your vacuum cleaner when steam cleaning your carpets. Just mix it into the solution as you would with any other cleaning agent, and let it work its magic.

The second method is for spot treating. Simply apply a small amount of the soap directly to the stained areas and gently rub it in. Let it sit for a few minutes to an hour, then scrub the area or vacuum it up. Both methods are effective for keeping your carpets looking fresh and clean!

22. Cleaning Cabinets

One area in the home that often gets overlooked or feels a bit overwhelming to clean is the cabinets, especially in the kitchen and bathroom. I used to rely on a bit of bleach to quickly brighten these spaces, but I’ve found that bleach can be harsh on the environment and might trigger allergies.

That’s where Murphy’s Oil Soap comes in as a much friendlier option! It’s a natural solution that effectively cleans without the harmful effects of bleach. Simply apply the soap to the cabinet doors and the interior spaces, then let it dry. You’ll be amazed at how fresh and clean everything looks, all while being kinder to the environment!

23. Furniture Polish

One area in the home that often gets overlooked or feels a bit overwhelming to clean is the cabinets, especially in the kitchen and bathroom. I used to rely on a bit of bleach to quickly brighten these spaces, but I’ve found that bleach can be harsh on the environment and might trigger allergies.

That’s where Murphy’s Oil Soap comes in as a much friendlier option! It’s a natural solution that effectively cleans without the harmful effects of bleach. Simply apply the soap to the cabinet doors and the interior spaces, then let it dry. You’ll be amazed at how fresh and clean everything looks, all while being kinder to the environment!

24. Hard Wood No wax floors

When it comes to hardwood floors, it can be tempting to reach for wax to add some shine. Without it, your floors might look dull and in need of a little TLC.

However, if you want to skip the hassle of waxing—whether it’s too time-consuming, too slippery, or just not worth the effort—there’s a great alternative: regular cleaning with Murphy’s Oil Soap. Just add a tablespoon of the soap to a cup of your mop water, and you’ll enjoy a beautiful shine without the fuss. This method keeps your floors looking fresh and vibrant, making it easy to maintain their natural beauty!

25. Shampoo your Dog

For a natural way to clean your dog’s fur while also providing protection against fleas and ticks, Murphy’s Oil Soap is a great choice. Just mix a quarter cup of the soap with 4 cups of water and stir well.

Using a washcloth or a soft brush, gently work the mixture into your dog’s fur, including their face, until they’re fully saturated. You can rinse them off with warm or cold water, depending on your preference. If you want to achieve the best shine, rinsing with cold water is the way to go! This method keeps your pup clean and shiny without any harsh chemicals.

Murphy’s Oil Soap is a fantastic all-natural option for cleaning and polishing in your home, office, or car. One of its great advantages is that it can be safely applied to almost all materials without causing damage. You can either dilute it with water or use it at full strength, depending on your needs.

This trusted product has been a staple in traditional homes for many years and continues to receive praise for its effectiveness and versatility. Whether you’re tackling tough stains or simply giving surfaces a nice shine, Murphy’s Oil Soap remains a reliable choice that gets the job done!