Last updated on June 9th, 2021
A jar of Petroleum Jelly is a staple in almost every household and used to treat dry skin and chapped lips. But, that’s not all! This wonder jelly also helps in tackling several day-to-day household challenges!
Here are 10 surprising uses of petroleum jelly, we bet you didn’t know!
1. Protect surfaces while painting
Planning to get a paint job done? Then, try using petroleum jelly as a substitute for masking tape. Just apply a layer of petroleum jelly to protect the surface where you don’t want the paint to stick, and once you finish, wipe it off with a wet rag.
2. Add decorative detailing
You would be surprised to know that a jar of petroleum jelly can help you create a distressed-paint effect. Just load some petroleum jelly on a paintbrush and draw a pattern on the surface, and then paint over it. The paint will not stick to the area where the jelly coats the surface, creating a beautiful, dual-toned look.
3. Shine leather
If your favorite leather jacket is looking somewhat dull and dry, smear some petroleum jelly on it! The jelly also makes for an excellent shining agent for leather shoes, boots, bags, and leather furniture
4. Fix squeaky doors
If you are struggling with cabinet doors, windows, and drawers that are stuck or jammed or are noisy, just apply some petroleum jelly over the tracks and hinges, open and close them a few times to work the jelly in, and no more noise, just like that!
5. Unscrew light bulbs
Next time you are changing a light bulb, apply some petroleum jelly at the end of the light bulb before securing it. The jelly will keep the socket lubricated so that it would be easy to remove the bulb the next time around.
6. Remove Stains
Petroleum jelly can help expel stains like those from chewing gum, colored pencils, and cosmetics on garments, fabrics, and furniture. Rub petroleum jelly on the stained area with a damp cloth and let it absorb for some time. Then rub off gently until the stain vanishes. However, it is important to know that petroleum jelly can also leave a stain and it may require some amount of liquid dish cleanser to remove it.
7. Remove rust
Tools and machinery can become quite dirty with exposure to dust and moisture. Keep them in excellent condition by just applying a layer of petroleum jelly.
8. Repel pests
You can use petroleum jelly to repel critters like ants and bugs. Simply apply some petroleum jelly on the window and door tracks to trap those insects and pests before they enter the house. Also, you can create flypaper by generously running some petroleum jelly on some butter paper or a lid left out in the open. Insects will get stuck on the paper or lid which you can later discard.
9. Remove water stains
To remove water stains, scratches, and marks on wooden furniture, apply a layer of petroleum jelly and let it get absorbed for 24 hours. Wipe off the excess with a piece of cloth and top it with a coat of furniture polish.
10. Start a Fire
Starting a bonfire? Simply dab a cotton ball in petroleum jelly and light it up to start a fire.
