If you’ve spent any time on cleaning TikTok or DIY blogs recently, you’ve probably seen it—a giant, bright pink bar of soap taking the internet by storm. Zote Soap, a humble cleaning product from Mexico, has become a viral sensation, and for good reason. This simple, inexpensive bar is one of the most versatile cleaning products you can buy.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll explore what makes Zote Soap so special and reveal 15 surprising ways you can use it in your home.
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Shop NowWhat Exactly Is Zote Soap?
Zote Soap is a traditional Mexican laundry soap that has been around for decades. It’s made from 100% natural ingredients, primarily sodium tallowate (soap derived from animal fat) and sodium cocoate (soap derived from coconut oil). These simple ingredients create a powerful cleaning agent that cuts through grease and grime like few other products can.
You’ll typically find Zote in two varieties:
- The iconic pink bar with a light floral fragrance
- A white version that’s fragrance-free
Both work equally well for cleaning, so your choice depends on whether you prefer a scented or unscented product.
Why You Need Zote Soap in Your Home
- Incredible Cleaning Power: Zote’s formula is specifically designed to tackle tough stains that regular detergents might miss.
- Amazing Value: A single large bar typically costs between $1-3 and can last for months, even with regular use.
- Eco-Friendly Choice: Unlike many modern cleaners filled with chemicals, Zote contains natural ingredients and is biodegradable.
- Versatility: From laundry to pest control, this one bar can replace numerous specialized cleaning products.
15 Genius Uses for Zote Soap
- DIY Laundry Detergent
Grate one bar of Zote Soap and mix it with 2 cups each of washing soda and borax. Use 1-2 tablespoons per load for powerful, inexpensive laundry detergent. - Laundry Stain Remover
Wet the end of the Zote bar and rub it directly on grease stains, collar dirt, or other tough spots before washing. Let it sit for 10 minutes before laundering as usual. - Laundry Stripping Soak
The viral TikTok trend! Grate ¼ cup of Zote soap and combine with ½ cup each of borax and washing soda. Add to a bathtub filled with hot water and soak stained towels, sheets, or workout clothes for 4-6 hours. Prepare to be amazed by the dirty water you’ll see! - Homemade Dish Soap Paste
Grate Zote soap and mix with just enough hot water to create a paste. Use it to pre-treat greasy pans and dishes before washing. - All-Purpose Cleaner
Create a liquid cleaner by grating ½ cup of Zote and dissolving it in a gallon of hot water. Once cooled, transfer to a spray bottle for cleaning countertops, floors, and other surfaces. - Natural Pest Repellent
Grate Zote soap and sprinkle it around the perimeter of your garden or home to deter insects and small rodents. - Hand-Washing Delicates
Create a gentle soap solution by dissolving grated Zote in warm water. Use this to hand-wash delicate items that can’t go in the washing machine. - Makeup Brush Cleaner
Work up a lather with Zote soap and warm water to deep clean makeup brushes and remove all oils and product buildup. - DIY Dryer Sheets
Place small grated pieces of Zote in a small muslin bag or sock and toss in the dryer to reduce static cling. - Carpet and Upholstery Spot Cleaner
Create a thick paste with grated Zote and a little water. Apply to stains on carpets or furniture, let sit for 10 minutes, then scrub and rinse. - Pet Stain Remover
Use a Zote solution to clean pet accidents from carpets or floors. The soap effectively removes both the stain and odor. - Gardening Tool Cleaner
Scrub dirty gardening tools with a Zote soap solution to remove grime and prevent rust. - Skunk Odor Remover
The classic folk remedy for pets who’ve encountered skunks! Work up a lather with Zote soap and water and thoroughly wash your pet to neutralize the odor. - Grout Cleaner
Make a thick paste with grated Zote and baking soda. Apply to dirty grout lines, let sit for 10 minutes, then scrub with a toothbrush. - Closet Freshener
Place small pieces of Zote in cloth bags and tuck them in drawers and closets to keep clothes fresh and deter moths.
How to Prepare Zote Soap for These Uses
The key to using Zote effectively is proper preparation. The easiest method is to grate the soap using a standard cheese grater (use the large holes). For larger quantities, you can chop the soap into chunks and pulse it in a food processor.
Always dissolve grated Zote in hot water when making liquid solutions, and stir until completely dissolved.
Important Tips and Warnings
- Always spot test Zote on an inconspicuous area before using it on fabrics or surfaces
- While natural, Zote is still a strong soap—keep it away from eyes
- Store unused portions in a dry place to prevent the soap from getting mushy
- Don’t use Zote on silk, wool, or other delicate fabrics that require special care
- The pink version may transfer color if left on surfaces for extended periods
The Bottom Line
Zote Soap is proof that sometimes the simplest solutions are the most effective. This inexpensive, versatile bar can replace countless specialized cleaning products in your home, saving you money and reducing your exposure to harsh chemicals. Whether you’re tackling tough laundry stains, looking for a natural cleaning alternative, or just curious about the viral trend, Zote Soap is worth adding to your cleaning arsenal.
