Rice Water Is Like Having Gold at Home… But Few People Know How to Use It

 

What Is Rice Water?

Rice water is the starchy liquid left behind after soaking or rinsing rice. It contains small amounts of carbohydrates and minerals released from the rice during washing. You can make it in two simple ways:

• Rinsed rice water: Rinse uncooked rice with clean water, swirl, and collect the cloudy liquid.

• Soaked rice water: Soak rice in water for 20–30 minutes, then strain.

Use it fresh whenever possible.

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1. A Smart Kitchen Helper

Instead of wasting rice water, try reusing it while cooking:

• For soups or stews: Replace part of the water with rice water for a slightly thicker texture.

• For dough or batter: Some people use it when making flatbreads or pancakes to reduce waste.

• For boiling vegetables: It can help retain a mild, neutral flavor.

These uses won’t dramatically change taste, but they’re a simple way to be more resourceful.

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2. A Gentle Plant Booster

Rice water can be used for watering plants—especially garden plants and houseplants.

• Use plain, unsalted rice water only

• Dilute it with regular water

• Use occasionally, not every day

It’s a simple way to recycle kitchen leftovers while caring for plants.

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3. Traditional Hair Care Rinse

In many cultures, rice water has been used as a hair rinse.

How to use:

1. After shampooing, pour diluted rice water over hair

2. Leave it on for a minute or two

3. Rinse thoroughly with clean water

Keep it gentle and infrequent. Everyone’s hair is different, so stop if it doesn’t feel right for you.

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4. Mild Skin Cleansing (Optional)

Some people use rice water as a gentle face rinse because it feels light and refreshing.

Tips:

• Always use fresh rice water

• Rinse off after use

• Avoid if you have sensitive or irritated skin

This is about cleanliness and comfort—not a medical treatment.

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5. Natural Cleaning Use

Rice water’s mild starchiness can help with light cleaning tasks:

• Wiping wooden surfaces

• Cleaning dusty leaves of plants

• Rinsing greasy containers before washing

It’s not a replacement for soap, but it can help reduce waste.

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Important Tips to Remember

• Do not store rice water for long periods—use it the same day

• Never use salted or seasoned rice water

• If it smells sour, throw it away

• Keep all uses simple and gentle