Using Stainless Steel Objects
In theory, stainless steel can react with sulfur, which is the odor-causing compound found in onions and garlic. Therefore, rubbing your hands with stainless steel objects can help eliminate the unpleasant smell.
After using stainless steel utensils to scrub your palms and fingers, you may want to wash your hands with soap or hand wash to ensure the removal of any lingering onion or garlic odor.
Lemon Juice to the Rescue
Lemon juice is a natural ingredient that can effectively get rid of strong odors. Squeeze some lemon juice into a small basin of water and soak your hands in it for about 3-5 minutes. Then, rinse your hands with soap and clean water.
Not only does lemon juice neutralize odors, but it also helps make your hands softer and brighter.
Alternatively, you can use a few slices of orange instead of lemon.
Note that both lemon and orange are acidic and may irritate open wounds. Therefore, if you have any cuts or scratches on your hands, it’s best to avoid using this method.
The odor of onions and garlic can linger on your hands after chopping them. Fortunately, you can use readily available kitchen ingredients to eliminate the smell.
Baking Soda – A Natural Deodorizer
Baking soda is an excellent odor neutralizer and is easily accessible and affordable.
Simply pour a small amount of baking soda into your hands, add a few drops of water, and rub it all over your palms, fingers, and between your fingers. Then, rinse your hands with clean water.
Toothpaste to the Rescue
Toothpaste contains cleansing and deodorizing agents, making it a great alternative to soap or hand wash when trying to get rid of onion or garlic smell from your hands.
Apply a thin layer of toothpaste on your hands and rub your hands together as you would when washing them with soap. After about a minute, rinse your hands with clean water as usual.
Using Mouthwash
If you have minty mouthwash at home, you can use it to get rid of the onion or garlic odor from your hands. Mouthwash contains antibacterial agents that help eliminate odors effectively, and the minty fragrance will overpower any lingering smells.
If you don’t have any of the above ingredients on hand, you can use dish soap as a substitute. Opt for natural, mild dish soaps that are gentle on the skin.
To prevent the odor of onions and garlic from lingering on your hands during food preparation, consider wearing an extra pair of gloves while chopping these ingredients.
