September 18, 2024

Crisco oil is probably something you associate with baking or frying, but it has so many more uses than you might think. This versatile household staple can save the day in a number of surprising ways. Whether it’s a quick fix for a beauty emergency or a household hack, you’ll want to keep a bottle of Crisco oil nearby for more than just cooking.

Here are 14 unexpected ways you can put Crisco oil to good use and why we always keep some in our home. It is a great idea to have one placed in your go bag or emergency kit too. 

Moisturize dry skin

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Crisco oil works wonders as a moisturizer, especially for super dry skin. It’s rich in fats, which helps to lock in moisture and keep your skin feeling soft and smooth. Whether you’re dealing with cracked hands in the winter or ashy elbows, a little dab of Crisco can help nourish and repair.

Unlike store-bought lotions filled with chemicals, Crisco is free of fragrance and dyes, making it ideal for sensitive skin. Just make sure to use it sparingly, as a little goes a long way!

Remove stuck rings

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If you’ve ever struggled to get a tight ring off your finger, Crisco oil can come to the rescue. Applying a small amount around the base of your finger can help the ring slip off without a fuss.

It’s a quick, painless solution when soap and water just aren’t doing the trick. Plus, it’s gentle enough to use on your skin, making it a safe option for a tight spot.

Polish Wooden Furniture

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Give your wooden furniture a nice shine by using Crisco oil as a polish. It adds a subtle sheen while moisturizing the wood, helping to prevent cracks and dryness.

Simply apply a small amount to a clean cloth and rub it into your furniture. It’s an easy and affordable way to maintain your wooden surfaces without resorting to expensive polishes.

Untangle Stubborn Knots

Lisa Norwood – Tangled jewelries / Flickr

Got a tangled necklace or shoelace? Crisco oil is a great solution for loosening tough knots. A little oil applied to the knotted area will make it easier to slide the strands apart without damaging them.

This trick works on a variety of materials, from delicate chains to thick cords. Just be sure to wipe off any excess oil afterward so you don’t end up with a greasy mess.

Prevent Squeaky Hinges

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Squeaky doors and cabinets can be annoying, but Crisco oil can help silence those pesky sounds. Apply a small dab to the hinge and move the door back and forth to work the oil in.

This is a simple fix that’s as effective as traditional lubricants. Plus, you probably already have Crisco oil in your kitchen, saving you a trip to the store.

Condition Leather

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Crisco oil is a great conditioner for leather items like shoes, belts, or jackets. It helps to soften the material, restore its shine, and prevent cracking.

Apply a small amount with a soft cloth, rub it into the leather, and wipe away any excess. Your leather goods will look good as new, and you’ll extend their lifespan without the need for pricey leather conditioners.

Prevent Snow Buildup on Shovels

Mrpolyonymous – shovels / Flickr

If you live in a snowy area, Crisco oil can make shoveling much easier. By applying a layer to your shovel before heading out, you’ll prevent snow from sticking to the blade.

This simple hack reduces the weight of each scoop, making the chore a lot less exhausting. It also helps prevent snow and ice from forming clumps that can slow you down.

Remove Sticky Labels

charlene mcbride – Sticky label on hand cream / Flickr

We’ve all been there – peeling off a label only to be left with a sticky residue that just won’t budge. Crisco oil can help dissolve the glue, making it easier to wipe away.

Apply the oil to the sticky area, let it sit for a few minutes, and then wipe it clean with a cloth. This trick works great on glass, plastic, and other smooth surfaces.

Shine Stainless Steel Appliances

Bill Wilson – Stainless appliance / Flickr

Keep your stainless steel appliances looking sleek by using Crisco oil as a polish. It helps remove smudges and fingerprints while leaving behind a shiny, streak-free surface.

Apply a small amount to a soft cloth and buff your appliances until they shine. It’s a quick, inexpensive way to maintain a spotless kitchen.

Loosen Rusty Screws

lungstruck – rusty screws / Flickr

Rusty screws can be a real headache, but Crisco oil can help loosen them up. Applying a few drops to the rusted area will break down the rust, making it easier to turn the screw.

This is a handy trick for DIY projects or any situation where rust has caused a screw to seize up. Just be patient and let the oil work its magic before trying to unscrew it.

Prevent Wax Buildup on Car Surfaces

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If you’re waxing your car, Crisco oil can help keep the wax from building up in unwanted places. Applying a small amount to trim or other areas where you don’t want wax to stick will make cleanup much easier.

This trick saves time and effort, leaving your car looking sharp without the mess of excess wax in tricky spots.

Keep Garden Tools Rust-Free

Cindy Shebley – Rusty Garden Tools / Flickr

Garden tools can quickly rust when exposed to the elements, but Crisco oil can help prevent that. After cleaning your tools, apply a thin coat of oil to protect them from moisture and rust.

This is an inexpensive way to keep your tools in great condition, ensuring they last longer and work better when you need them.

Grease Bike Chains

Jon Roberts – Bike Chain / Flickr

If you’re out of bike chain lubricant, Crisco oil can be a temporary solution. It provides enough lubrication to keep your chain moving smoothly until you can get proper bike grease.

While not a permanent fix, it’s a quick and easy way to avoid a squeaky chain when you’re in a pinch.

Protect Car Doors from Freezing

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In cold weather, car doors can freeze shut, making it tough to get inside. Rubbing a small amount of Crisco oil around the edges of the door and the rubber seals can help prevent this from happening.

It creates a barrier that keeps moisture from freezing your doors shut, saving you from a frustrating start to your morning commute.

Who knew Crisco oil had so many uses beyond the kitchen? Whether it’s for household fixes or quick beauty hacks, this versatile product is worth having around. The next time you reach for your bottle of Crisco, try out one of these surprising tricks—you might just be amazed at how handy it really is!

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