Shampoo, beyond washing hair, has several handy uses around the house and for personal care.
Alternative Uses for Shampoo
While we typically use shampoo for hair cleansing, it can be surprisingly versatile. You can use up shampoo by repurposing it for various household tasks and personal care needs. Here are some effective ways:
Household Cleaning and Maintenance
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Cleaning Brushes: Shampoo is excellent for cleaning hairbrushes and makeup brushes, removing built-up oils and product residue.
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Unsticking Zippers and Bolts: A drop of shampoo can lubricate stuck zippers and bolts, making them move smoothly again.
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Lubricating Squeaky Hinges: Apply a small amount of shampoo to squeaky door or cabinet hinges to quiet them down.
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Cleaning Chrome: Use diluted shampoo to clean and shine chrome surfaces on vehicles and bathroom fixtures. It leaves a streak-free finish.
Personal Care
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Gentle Hand Cleanser: Shampoo works well as a gentle hand cleanser, especially when you are out of soap. It is less drying than many soaps.
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Preventing Fogging on Swimming Goggles: A thin layer of shampoo inside swimming goggles can prevent them from fogging up.
Summary of Shampoo Uses
| Use | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Cleaning Brushes | Removes oil and product buildup. |
| Unsticking Zippers/Bolts | Lubricates and eases movement. |
| Lubricating Hinges | Reduces squeaking in doors, cabinets, etc. |
| Cleaning Chrome | Polishes chrome surfaces, leaving them shiny and streak-free. |
| Hand Cleanser | Gentle alternative to soap, suitable for frequent use. |
| Anti-fog for Goggles | Prevents fogging on swimming goggles. |
Practical Tips
- Dilution: For cleaning tasks, dilute the shampoo with water to avoid creating too much foam.
- Application: Apply a small amount of shampoo directly to the problem area and use a brush or cloth to work it in.
- Testing: Always test a small, inconspicuous area before using shampoo on a larger or delicate surface.
- Storage: Store diluted shampoo in a spray bottle for easy use around the house.
By using shampoo for these alternative tasks, you can make use of every last drop.
