Fresh-cut flowers are an instant mood booster, bringing life and color into any room. As someone who adores flowers, I always make a trip to my local store to pick up a fresh bouquet, especially when the weather warms up. Whether it’s a vibrant mix of roses, tulips, or some delicate ranunculus, I enjoy curating my floral arrangements for the week. However, one of the most frustrating things about having fresh flowers is that they tend to wilt and fade much too quickly. That’s when I stumbled upon a surprising trick—using mouthwash to keep my flowers fresh longer.
The Mouthwash Hack: How It Works
You might be wondering—mouthwash for flowers? Yes, it turns out that mouthwash, a product we usually associate with oral hygiene, can also work wonders for prolonging the life of cut flowers. The key lies in the antibacterial properties that help keep your flowers hydrated and free from bacterial growth. By simply adding a small amount of alcohol-free mouthwash to the water in your flower vase, you can help prevent the bacteria that causes the water to become cloudy and the stems to clog. This trick is said to not only extend the life of your flowers but also keep them looking fresh for several days.
The Test: Setting Up My Flower Arrangements
Excited to try this mouthwash trick, I headed to my local store to pick up some fresh flowers. I chose a variety of blooms, including yellow double peony tulips, bright gerbera daisies, regular tulips, and some white ranunculus for contrast. I also added some charming yellow and white chamomile flowers, which add a lovely dainty touch. Of course, I couldn’t resist getting a bunch of pink gladiolus for my kitchen counter.
I set up two identical arrangements, using the same flowers and the same number of stems for each. For one arrangement, I followed the typical flower care routine—changing the water every few days and trimming the stems. For the other, I added a capful of alcohol-free mouthwash to the vase water, as instructed. Then, I waited to see how each bouquet would hold up over the next several days.
Why Mouthwash Helps Flowers Stay Fresh
Mouthwash works its magic on cut flowers because of its antibacterial properties. When flowers are placed in water, bacteria can quickly accumulate around the base of the stems, causing the water to become murky and even smell unpleasant. The bacteria block the stems from properly absorbing water, which leads to wilting and premature decay. By adding mouthwash, you introduce an antibacterial agent that prevents the growth of these harmful microbes. This simple step helps your flowers stay hydrated and nourished, making them last longer.
In addition to using mouthwash, it’s also important to remove any foliage below the waterline. Leaves that are submerged in water can decompose quickly, providing a perfect environment for bacteria to grow. Cutting the stems at an angle also increases their ability to absorb water, which is another essential step for keeping them fresh.
The Results: What I Found After Four Days
After four days, the bouquet with the mouthwash-treated water looked noticeably fresher than the one without. The flowers, especially the delicate chamomile, held up remarkably well. The petals were vibrant, and there was no sign of the typical wilting or drooping that usually happens after a few days. On the other hand, the untreated bouquet didn’t look quite as healthy. Some of the petals were starting to wilt, and the water had turned slightly cloudy, which is a sign that bacteria was beginning to take over.
While the difference wasn’t dramatic, it was still significant enough to make me a believer in the mouthwash trick. The bouquet with the mouthwash was visibly more vibrant and fresh, and I was impressed by how long it lasted.
Will I Continue Using Mouthwash for My Flowers?
After trying this simple hack, I can confidently say that I’ll be using mouthwash in all my future flower arrangements. It’s an easy and affordable way to keep flowers looking fresh for a longer period of time. Given how inexpensive mouthwash is compared to buying fresh flowers regularly, it’s a small step that can have a big impact on how long your blooms last. Plus, it’s a convenient trick to keep in mind for when you bring home a bouquet and want it to stay vibrant for as long as possible.
As a bonus, it’s a great way to make the most out of your floral investment, allowing you to enjoy beautiful blooms in your home for several more days. Now, I’m even considering that perhaps local flower shops could display mouthwash next to their floral section—it could be a clever way to encourage flower enthusiasts to make their flowers last even longer.
While it might sound like an odd trick, using mouthwash for your flowers is a small but effective way to keep them fresh and vibrant longer. With its antibacterial properties, mouthwash helps to prevent bacteria buildup in the water, allowing your flowers to stay hydrated and nourished. It’s easy to do, and the results are worth the effort. From now on, I’ll be adding mouthwash to all my floral arrangements, and I highly recommend giving it a try in your own home. So, the next time you pick up a beautiful bouquet, don’t forget this simple trick—your flowers will thank you!
