A viral image showing cloudy rice water being poured into a bowl has captured attention online with a simple message: “Don’t throw away rice water—it’s incredibly useful around the house.” For many home cooks, rice water is seen as waste. But in kitchens across Asia and beyond, people have reused it for generations—often calling it a “hidden household treasure.”

From cooking to cleaning and even beauty routines, rice water contains starch and small amounts of nutrients that make it helpful in everyday life. However, experts also advise using it safely, especially when storing it or applying it to skin.

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What Exactly Is Rice Water?

Rice water is the starchy liquid left behind after rinsing or boiling rice. It contains:

• starch and carbohydrates

• trace minerals and vitamins (depending on the rice type)

• mild cleansing properties

The water looks cloudy because rice releases starch into it, especially during washing. People typically collect it after the first or second rinse, or after boiling.

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1) A Traditional Kitchen Tool for Better Cooking

Rice water has long been used in home cooking, and many chefs say it can improve texture and reduce waste.

Common cooking uses include:

• Thickening soups or sauces: The starch can add a smooth, light body.

• Soaking beans or lentils: Some believe it helps soften them faster.

• Making dough softer: In some recipes, rice water is used for flatter breads or batters.

While these uses vary by culture, the idea is simple: instead of pouring the liquid away, use it to enhance other foods.

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2) Gentle Cleaning for Surfaces and Kitchenware

Rice water is sometimes used as a mild cleaning aid. The starch can help lift dirt, especially on surfaces that need gentle care.

Popular household cleaning uses:

• wiping countertops or sinks

• rinsing greasy dishes before soap

• cleaning glass or mirrors (when diluted)

Because rice water is not a strong disinfectant, it should not replace proper cleaning products for high-risk areas like raw meat boards. But for light daily cleaning, many households consider it a helpful eco-friendly habit.

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3) A Natural Boost for Plants (Used Carefully)

Some gardeners use diluted rice water to water houseplants. The starch and trace nutrients may support soil microbes, helping plant health in small amounts.

Important: Rice water should be unsalted and preferably used fresh. Too much can cause bad smells, mold, or attract pests.

A common tip is to dilute it with clean water and use it once in a while—not daily.

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4) The Beauty Trend: Rice Water for Hair and Skin

Rice water has become popular online as a beauty hack, especially for hair rinses. Many people say it helps hair feel smoother and shinier. In skincare, some use it as a gentle toner.

Why people use it:

• it feels lightweight

• it can reduce frizz for some hair types

• it may give skin a “clean” feeling

However, dermatologists often warn that homemade beauty solutions may cause irritation in sensitive individuals. Anyone with eczema, acne flare-ups, or allergies should patch-test first.

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5) How to Store Rice Water Safely

One of the biggest risks is improper storage. Rice water can spoil quickly because starch feeds bacteria.

Safe handling tips:

• use it the same day whenever possible

• if storing, keep it refrigerated

• discard if it smells sour or unusual

• avoid leaving it at room temperature for long periods

If you plan to use it for skincare, clean containers are essential to reduce contamination risk.

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What Experts Say: Useful, But Don’t Overhype It

Rice water can be a smart “reuse” habit and a budget-friendly household trick. Still, experts caution against treating it as a miracle solution. It won’t replace disinfectants, and it’s not a medical treatment. But as part of a low-waste lifestyle, it can be genuinely practical.

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Bottom Line: A Simple Habit That Saves Waste

The viral post is right about one thing: rice water doesn’t always belong in the trash. Whether you use it to cook, clean lightly, water plants, or try it in a beauty routine, rice water can be a small step toward a more sustainable home.