Many people think that they can’t give themselves a professional-looking manicure because they’re maybe not the best with a brush. However, you don’t need to have a manicurist’s finesse in order to get flawless French tips.

Simply slide a rubber band over your nail and get to applying your polish! Just make sure you wait for the nail polish to dry before removing the band so that you don’t mess up your perfect manicure.

It can be frustrating when you feel like you’ve got the perfect outfit picked out but then realize that you’ve got deodorant marks all over it. As it turns out, those are relatively easy to remove, so you can still sport your look of choice!

Rub a dryer sheet on the deodorant mark until it disappears. If you don’t have any dryer sheets nearby, you can rub the item’s fabric on itself. However, this should be a last resort, as it can stretch or wrinkle the material.

If a piece of jewelry falls into the sink, don’t try to catch it. Instead, cover the drain with your hand. The truth is that unless you’ve got the reflexes of Serena Williams, you probably won’t catch the falling jewelry.

Those of us who aren’t the quickest will have a much better chance of covering the drain before our jewelry gets into the pipes. We also recommend covering your drain with netting, so that water can still get through but your precious items cannot.

Certain products simply work better and are cheaper if you buy the men’s versions. For example, men’s razors are cheaper than women’s — the only difference is they aren’t pink. Deodorant is also better when purchased from the men’s section.

Women’s deodorant comes in scents like ‘Lily’ and ‘Morning Dew,’ which is nice and all. Still, it doesn’t exactly get the job done the way that men’s antiperspirant does.

Baby oil is a cheaper and more moisturizing alternative to shaving cream. It can also be used to clean your razor’s blades, as it’s quite gentle and will help your razor last longer. Simply soak your razor in baby oil between uses.

If you’re not a fan of baby oil, you can also use conditioner as a shaving cream substitute. It’ll give you that same glide and still leave your skin feeling soft.

While wearing a long poofy dress may make you look like a princess, it’ll make you feel more like a court jester when it’s time to use the restroom. In order to avoid things going where they shouldn’t, sit on the toilet backward — facing the cistern.

This way, you can see exactly what’s going on with the back of your dress, rather than trying to feel around behind yourself, hoping for the best.

We get wanting to have a cold drink on a hot day but ice cubes tend to water down even the best beverages. In order to keep your drinks cool but without losing the flavor, simply pour the drink itself into an ice tray and freeze it!

For example, you can make iced coffee with frozen coffee cubes. When it comes to adult beverages, you can put frozen grapes into your drink. Bonus points if you eat the grapes afterward!

Scrunchies are making a serious comeback right now and for good reason! They don’t tug at the hair as elastic ponytail holders do, so scrunchie-wearers don’t run the risk of getting their hair pulled out.

Furthermore, since a ponytail done with a scrunchie doesn’t have such a tight hold, it’ll minimize ponytail bumps and create a sleeker hairstyle. Velvet, specifically, is great for all hair types since it’s so soft — making velvet scrunchies the best possible option.

Just because your favorite candle has burned down to the wick doesn’t mean that you have to go without using it. No, we’re not suggesting that you hurt your fingers either — there’s a far more simple solution to get any candle lit.

Use a piece of uncooked spaghetti as a very long match to reach those trickier candles. Another option is to light a piece of paper and use that. Although, we suggest using caution with that method as the fire will spread through the paper quickly.

Using the bathroom straightaway after certain activities is crucial for a woman’s health. One of these instances is after intimacy, in order to flush out any bacteria and avoid infection. Another scenario in which one should use the restroom is after a bath.

This is particularly true if you like to use bubbles or oils in the tub. The general rule of thumb is to use the bathroom within 30 minutes after completing these activities — but the sooner, the better.

No matter how poised and graceful you are, there’s no avoiding that dreaded run in one’s tights. While we can’t prevent ripped tights altogether, we can certainly minimize the probability of it happening.

Simply spray some hairspray on your tights, after you’ve put them on. This will reinforce the fibers and make them just a bit less likely to tear. If your tights have already torn and you don’t want the hole to get bigger, simply apply clear nail polish to the other side of the rip.

We all face a major problem when dealing with foods such as garlic or onions. On the one hand, we want those foods in our meals. On the other hand, we’re well aware that it’ll mean spending the rest of the day reeking.

Luckily, there’s a very simple solution — when you’ve finished chopping onions and garlic, rub your hands on some stainless steel. This could be your sink, your faucet, whatever works! The odor will cling to the stainless steel, removing the smell from your hands.

Even if you don’t own a cat, we highly recommend that you buy a bag of kitty litter and keep it in your car. If your tires get stuck in the snow, kitty litter will provide the traction needed to get them unstuck.

Furthermore, kitty litter can also be used to un-fog car windows. Simply fill a sock with it, put said sock on the dashboard, and allow it to absorb all the moisture. Given that you’ll now buy kitty litter anyway, maybe get a cat too?

If your mascara is getting clumpy or dried up, simply dip the tube in a cup of hot water and let it soak for a few minutes. If you want to clean the brush altogether, leave it in hot water for around 15 minutes.

While we’re at it, ignore the overused beauty advice of pumping your mascara in the tube before application. That actually creates clumps rather than gets rid of them! Instead, twirl your mascara in the tube before applying it to your lashes.

If you feel like none of your hair products are working on reducing your frizz or flyaways, maybe it’s time to turn to your laundry products instead. Dryer sheets work absolute miracles on frizzy hair!

Place a dryer sheet onto your hairbrush and comb it through in order to smooth any static or flyaways. Dryer sheets are positively charged, while hair is negatively charged, so the result is a smoothed-down and tame mane.

We all know that dreaded race against time and gravity when trying to get out of the shower while you’re on your period. Luckily, there’s an easier way than frantically trying to get your pad sticking to your underwear, and then onto your body, in time.

Instead, attach your pad to your underwear before you start showering, and leave it on the countertop for when you’re done. This way, your pad and underwear combo will be ready to go as soon as you’re out of the shower!

Even if your clothes are wrinkled and you don’t have an iron, that doesn’t mean that you have to give up on wearing a certain outfit. Instead, put the clothes into the dryer along with two to four ice cubes and turn the machine on for about 10 minutes.

The ice cubes will melt in the dryer, creating an effect similar to that of a steamer. Bonus points for the fact that, with this method, you won’t have to worry about iron marks!

Trying to put on a bracelet alone can feel like a dog chasing its tail, as the chain just goes around and around your wrist, seemingly impossible to catch. For those who don’t have someone at home to help them put their bracelet on, or if you simply want to demonstrate your independence, use tape to hold your jewelry in place while you work the clasp.

This way, you’ll always leave the house fully accessorized but without the frustration of fighting with your bracelet all morning.

We highly suggest coating costume jewelry with clear nail polish. The nail polish will act as a protective layer, preventing your jewelry from getting discolored and chipped.

Also, if you’re one of those people whose skin turns green from the metals in costume jewelry, then the nail polish will help out with that as well. It’ll act as a shield between the jewelry and your skin, so you don’t wind up looking like a well-accessorized version of the Hulk.

If you’re buying just a simple t-shirt, there’s absolutely no reason to pay the extra price that comes with being a woman. Men’s clothing is often cheaper than women’s clothes and when it comes to a basic t-shirt, there’s really no difference between those meant for males or females.

Trust us, no one will be able to tell if your top came from the men’s section of the store. No one except your wallet, of course.

Not everyone likes the idea of carrying around pepper spray and, more to the point, the product isn’t legal everywhere. However, you probably carry deodorant in your purse for freshening up on a hot day.

Simply switch stick or roll-on deodorant for a spray and you’ll be able to use it as a substitute for pepper spray in an emergency situation. Hopefully, the only emergency you’ll actually need deodorant for is sweat marks.

Tailored pants can truly make all the difference in a person’s appearance. That same pair of jeans can make you look either chic or frumpy, depending on how well they fit you.

If money’s tight, just buy a few cheaper pairs of basic pants and invest the money on tailoring those – rather than spending a lot of cash on several pairs of expensive pants. Trust us, those cheaper jeans will end up looking like they’re designer – if they fit you just right!

A jammed zipper can make even the calmest person start to panic. It’s hard not to imagine needing to cut yourself out of your clothes the moment your zipper gets stuck. But, before you reach for the scissors, grab a bar of soap instead.

Rubbing soap over the zipper should create enough lubrication to get it unstuck. If you’re on the go, use ChapStick instead. The waxy substance will have the same effect as a soap bar. No outfits need to be harmed in this process.

No, you’re not imagining things, nail polish really is the answer to many of life’s problems. Yet another use for this product is to avoid rust rings around the house. Anyone who has a lot of toiletries in their bathroom has dealt with those dreaded rust rings.

Next time, simply coat the bottom of the can or bottle in nail polish and that’ll act as a shield between the toiletry and the bathroom’s surfaces.

Finding a safe place to keep your money can be difficult, especially if you’re traveling. The best way to ensure pickpockets won’t come after your cash is by storing it somewhere completely unexpected. For example, inside a ChapStick tube!

No one will find it odd that you have some ChapStick in your purse and they’re certainly not going to bother stealing it. We do warn you, though, that there’s a risk of forgetting and trying to moisturize your lips with a 20.

Like socks in a dryer, bobby pins seem to have a magical way of disappearing from one’s dresser. It feels like no matter what you do, bobby pins are always getting lost and then magically turning up in random places.

In order to keep these hair accessories from wandering around the house, stick them to a magnet! That way, your bobby pins will stay put and be readily available when you need them.

Nobody wants to be that person who ends up with spots of hair dye all over their face after DIYing a new look. In order to avoid this hair faux pas, rub a thick layer of vaseline onto the skin around your hairline (including your ears and neck) before starting to dye.

This way, any wayward hair dye will go onto the vaseline, which is easy to wash off, rather than getting absorbed into your skin.

If you have a lot of food allergies or sensitivities to medication, it’s worthwhile to create a “business card” that lists those items, in the event that something happens while you’re out and about.

This is particularly helpful if you carry around any sort of emergency medication and want people to know to look for it in your bag. You can also write down on your card who to call in case of emergency or what passersby can do to help.

If you’re struggling to squeeze out that last bit of toothpaste or shampoo, simply cut the container in half and scoop the rest out. Some companies will purposely play tricks with their packaging so that you end up needing to replace the product sooner.

For example, makeup companies that make the mascara wand too short to reach the bottom of the tube. Cutting a container in half will ensure that you won’t waste your money and you’ll get to use every last drop of each product.

There are a lot of methods for opening tightly closed jars but this is probably the best one. Rather than banging the jar on the table, which rarely works and can result in breakage, grab a knife instead.

Slide the knife into the lid of the jar and push it upward, you’ll hear the lid give a slight ‘pop’ and that’s when you can open it easily. But be warned — this method does pose a risk to the egos of any fragile men who may be nearby.

We’re all guilty of not having our bag on us sometimes. However, we’re yet to meet the person who’ll go out without their phone. If you store some money between your phone and its case, you’ll always have some emergency cash.

This trick is useful when making an unplanned purchase if you don’t have your wallet on you. It also helps if your back was stolen, at least this way you can call someone and you’ll have some cash (literally) on hand.

If you find yourself in a bind in which your clothes are wrinkled but you don’t have a clothes iron, you can use a hair iron instead. This is particularly useful while traveling, as you likely won’t want to pack both.

Even if you do have a clothes iron available, you may want to opt for a hair iron anyway when it comes to smaller areas of the clothing, like a shirt collar or an embellished piece.

One of the many challenges of packing a suitcase is figuring out how to pack your shoes without them dirtying up your clothes. Luckily, most hotels give away free shower caps! Simply wrap your shoes up in the shower caps and they’ll be ready to be packed.

If you don’t have any shower caps, you can use a plastic bag instead. Now, there’s just the issue of how to make all your shoes fit into one suitcase!

If you ever find yourself a victim of the cliche of getting gum stuck in your hair, don’t worry that you’ll have to cut your locks. Instead, you can use ice cubes to freeze the gum, making it much easier to remove.

Just hold some ice on the gum for 5-15 minutes, until it hardens. There’s also, of course, the peanut butter trick too. But, we can probably all agree that ice cubes are a lot less messy.

Any kind of mom, be it a mom to humans or pets, should carry around a “home alone” emergency card.

In the event that something happens to you, this card will let people know that there’s someone at your house who can’t fend for themselves and is relying on you to come back. Just write down on the card who to call that can go take care of your child until you get home.

Gone are the days when you need to brace yourself for pain while you break in a new pair of shoes. Instead, break them in before you ever wear them! Put on some thin socks and put the new shoes over them, then blow dry the shoes for several minutes.

When you’re done, allow the shoes to cool off and they’ll be molded to your feet. That definitely beats walking around all day in pain!

One can always go out and buy a fabric razor to renew pilled clothing, however, they can be quite expensive and you probably have another product at home that’ll work just as well.

A disposable razor, like the one you use to shave your legs, will get the job done just like an expensive fabric razor. Simply pull the fabric taught and use a razor to shave the pilled bits off your clothing.

For those who like to wear a lot of jewelry, packing for a trip can pose a serious challenge. Sometimes, it seems like no matter what you do, all of your jewelry chains get tangled with each other, and you’re left unpacking a huge mess.

When preparing for your next vacation, thread your chains through straws and then close the clasp. This way, your jewelry won’t get all tangled with each other and unpacking will be a lot less frustrating!

If you have a lifestyle in which you’re unable to go home during the day, then keeping a spare set of clothes in the car can be a game-changer. You never know when a messy accident will occur and the last thing you need is to spend all your meetings wearing the morning coffee you spilled.

Or maybe the weather forecast was off and you’ll be outside all day. Whatever the situation, the option to change clothes is always a good thing.

There’s no need to pay a professional tons of money to clean your jewelry, the truth is that you can DIY the same results at home! Mix one teaspoon of dishwashing soap with warm water, put your jewelry into the solution, and let it soak for about five minutes.

Then, scrub it with a soft toothbrush. For hard-to-reach spots, you can use a toothpick to get the dirt out. Lastly, dry your jewelry on a paper towel or soft cloth, and it’ll be good as new!

We’ve all been in this situation at some point — we can’t remember which key is for the lock we need, so we try every single one. Somehow, none of them work, so we try them all again. Then, it’s always the first one we chose, which we swear didn’t work the first time.

In order to avoid this frustrating scenario, differentiate your keys with different colored nail polish! Not only will it make your life easier but it’ll add some flair to your keyring, too.

One of the best pieces of anti-aging advice out there is — moisturize. Your skin and hair need proper moisture in order to stay healthy. We recommend moisturizing one’s skin (face and body) at least once a day, every single day, and hair at least twice a week.

When it comes to skin and hair care, it’s important to remember that you won’t see results right away. But trust us, getting into the habit of moisturizing now is something you’ll be grateful for when you’re older.

Clothes shopping can be an extremely frustrating experience, especially because sizes vary widely between brands as size tags are unregulated. That being said, you can make the process a bit easier by knowing your measurements.

Measure all of the relevant parts of your body and log the information into your phone before your next trip to the mall. This won’t completely replace trying stuff on but it’ll definitely narrow down your choices, saving you a lot of time and exasperation.

You never know when you’re going to need an emergency makeup touch-up, or when you’ll be stuck somewhere overnight — not to mention that you may get an unscheduled visit from Aunt Flo!

Having a toiletry bag in your car will give you peace of mind throughout the day, even if you never have to actually use it. There’s something about knowing you have quick access to all your essentials that makes this life hack worth trying.

Whether you’re married or not, it’s worth wearing a wedding ring while traveling. Of course, it doesn’t have to be expensive, just something to give off the vibe that you’re not single and touring alone.

Unfortunately, some places are dangerous for solo female travelers and a wedding band can send the message that your husband is going to come join you any minute. It’s a sad but true reality that a toxic man will respect an imaginary man more than the woman right in front of him.

You most likely have a jar of coconut oil in your kitchen right now, one that you probably use when the occasional recipe calls for it. But, if you’re only using coconut oil for cooking, you’re missing out on its other benefits. Keep reading to learn 40+ creative ways to use coconut oil and get the most bang for your buck.

Coconut oil has long been thought to help improve your metabolism. It contains high amounts of medium-chain triglycerides, or MCTs, that are known to be absorbed quickly by the body and potentially increase the number of calories you burn throughout the day.

Get your MCTs easily by adding a small amount of coconut oil to your morning coffee or using it as a cooking oil while you make breakfast. You can even throw a spoonful into a smoothie or protein shake for an extra boost of fatty acids.

If you’ve got wood furniture that’s looking worn or dry, use coconut oil to restore it back to its original shine. Take a soft cloth and coconut oil directly to the wood and polish until it shines.

You can also make a furniture spray by combining melted coconut oil, vinegar, and lemon juice. Pour into a spray bottle, shake well, and spray onto tired-looking chairs and tables when they need a cleaning. Wipe down with a soft cloth and enjoy your refreshed furniture.

Medium-chain triglycerides, or MCTs, are believed to have health benefits that support brain function. MCTs are broken down by your liver and turn into ketones, which are a great source of energy for the brain.

While there is more research to be conducted, experts have already noted the benefits of upping MCT intake in people who suffer from disorders such as epilepsy or Alzheimer’s. To easily take advantage of the MCTs in coconut oil, use it during cooking or add as a supplement to your favorite coffees, shakes, or smoothies.

Coconut oil is believed to have properties that support a person’s healthy cholesterol levels, otherwise known as the “good” HDL cholesterol. While it is primarily a saturated fat, which may also increase levels of LDL cholesterol, the boost in HDL is often toted as a major benefit.

Use small amounts of coconut oil while cooking your favorite meals and enjoy its health benefits without overdoing it. A little goes a long way, so you will have no problem keeping your pantry stocked with it.

Using coconut oil to make your own body butter is a great way to utilize this natural hydrator. You can also feel better about saving money on expensive lotions and knowing exactly what ingredients are in your product.

Simply combine softened coconut oil with shea butter and mica powder — which gives it a subtle but natural shimmer — and melt down until it mixes evenly. When it cools, apply body butter to your arms and legs for a moisturized glow that will last all day. Perfect for summer!

Coconut oil can be used to make a ton of different healthy snacks right in your own home. If you have a sweet tooth, dark chocolate can easily be made with coconut oil and a few other natural ingredients. And what’s better is that there are a wealth of recipes available that are sugar-free, making this snack great for a wide variety of dietary restrictions.

When using coconut oil for these sugar-free chocolates, be sure to store them in the fridge or freezer. Pure coconut oil is solid at room temperature but as soon as they start to melt even a bit, you can have quite a mess on your hands.

If you typically cook with butter or vegetable oil, try switching it out for coconut oil. There are many claims that coconut oil is full of healthy fats that are good for the heart and that it can potentially increase good cholesterol levels.

Coconut oil is a mild-tasting oil that can be used all throughout your meals — whether frying or baking — and a little goes a long way!

Because coconut oil has natural hydrating properties, it works wonders to moisturize your nails and cuticles. After a manicure and as much as needed, take a small amount of coconut oil to each nail bed and massage in until absorbed.

Instantly, your nails and cuticles will look shiny and healthy. With continued use over time, your cuticles will be less prone to hydration and your nails will become stronger and less prone to cracking and breaking.

Itchy bug bites can be the bane of an otherwise beautiful summer. Fortunately, coconut oil has antibacterial properties that can temporarily provide relief from itching or stinging as well as protect the affected area.

If you have a pesky bite, apply a small amount of coconut oil gently to the bite and surrounding area. It should quell some of the itching immediately and will help prevent infections. This is also a great method for kids to help them stop scratching.

Shampoo bars are not only economical, with the benefit of less plastic waste than store-bought hair products, but making them at home allows you to infuse each recipe with the ingredients best for your hair. Coconut oil is a star player in many shampoo bar recipes.

Hydrating coconut oil along with other moisturizing ingredients — plus your preferred essential oils for natural fragrance — makes these shampoo bars a worthwhile DIY project.

To help control hunger pangs between meals, consider adding coconut oil to your diet. Because it’s chock full of medium-chain triglycerides, or MCTs, it’s known to promote feelings of satiety, meaning it can help keep you full for a longer period of time.

By using a small amount of coconut oil in your morning meal, you can expect to feel satisfied for longer throughout the day, which may help reduce snacking between meals and your overall consumed calories for the day.

When it comes time to remove your makeup at the end of the day, you want to be sure to use something not only effective, but safe and natural as well. Coconut oil is a great alternative to store-bought makeup removers for this reason.

Grab yourself a jar with a lid. To that, simply add water, eight drops of lavender oil, four tablespoons of coconut oil, two tablespoons of witch hazel, and stir. Place in your cotton pads and push down until they are covered with the liquid. Put the lid on the jar to let the oils infuse.

Coconut oil is a fantastic ingredient in homemade beauty products, such as hydrating lip balms. To make your own, simply collect a few ingredients in addition to the coconut oil such as beeswax, essential oils, and honey.

There are many options for a DIY lip balm recipe but rest assured that coconut oil is a star player for its powerful hydration and mild scent and taste. And all it takes is melting everything together, pouring it into your desired container(s), and letting it cool until ready to use!

Coconut oil has great antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, meaning it can very well promote quick healing of cuts, scrapes, and minor wounds. Research has even shown that coconut oil is linked to increased collagen production, benefitting overall skin health.

For minor scrapes and cuts, apply a small amount of pure coconut oil to the area and cover with a bandaid for speedy healing.

In addition to its many other healthy properties, coconut oil is believed to have potential benefits for improving and maintaining bone health. Virgin coconut oil is high in antioxidants, which are great for neutralizing damaging free radicals that we are exposed to daily.

Free radicals affect us in many ways, one of which is negatively impacting our bones. For more antioxidant protection, consider upping your daily coconut oil intake.

Coconut oil is a popular ingredient for hair care products thanks to its conditioning properties. When mixed with other star ingredients for hair health, you can have an effective and budget-friendly hair mask made right in your kitchen.

For this mask, mix melted coconut oil with honey and apple cider vinegar before applying it all throughout your hair, starting at the ends and working your way up. After leaving it in for the desired length of time, rinse well and enjoy your shiny locks!

Regular cleaning and stain-removing products from the store can come with a lot of unknown or unhealthy ingredients. For a safer alternative, add coconut oil to your grocery list so you can make a stain remover at home.

Combine one part coconut oil with one equal part of baking soda and mix it into a paste. For stains on carpet, upholstered furniture, and more, apply the paste to the affected area and wait five minutes for it to work. When time’s up, wipe away and enjoy the clean!

If you need a super hydrating facial mask, don’t worry about picking out the right one from the store. If you have coconut oil at home, you can easily make your own DIY face mask. Simply add honey and lemon juice, both of which have excellent healing properties for the skin.

Apply the mask once a week or when your skin is in need of extra moisture — and enjoy soft, hydrated skin.

Virgin coconut oil has tons of uses as a beauty product. In addition to moisturizing, oil cleansing, and makeup removal, coconut oil can be used to support healthy eyelash growth. Its antimicrobial properties are thought to protect lashes from bacteria that can be acquired through makeup application, and the fatty acids promote hydration.

The extra hydration from coconut oil can help your lashes stay protected from mascara and other eye makeup. And with consistent use, your hydrated eyelashes should feel fuller and stronger.

Coconut oil is known as a generally safe moisturizer for your dog’s skin and coat. Not only can it help with dry skin, but it doubles as a relief agent from bites, stings, and natural odors. Keep pure organic coconut oil on hand to use on your pup as needed.

Once weekly, apply a moderate amount of coconut oil to your dog’s coat and paws and let it sit for a few minutes, adjusting for your dog’s specific needs. Rinse well, following with a shampoo if the coat remains greasy. Rest assured that the oil’s soothing properties will benefit both you and your four-legged friend.

While it may seem strange at first, adding coconut oil to your morning cup of coffee has many potential benefits. Because of its omega fatty acid content, coconut oil in your coffee can provide a nice boost for your metabolism, promote healthy digestion, and satiate hunger.

Plus, it feels decadent and rich. A tablespoon of coconut oil blended into your warm coffee will result in a deliciously creamy, frothy texture and a mild buttery taste. Add your cream and other ingredients as usual, or go without — coconut oil on its own can be quite satisfying.

You likely already use coconut oil for cooking, but it’s also a great substitute for butter or vegetable oil in baking recipes. You can count on light, delicate textures in your baked goods when you make this substitute, and you don’t have to worry about the coconut flavor shining through — coconut oil is generally very mild.

When you substitute this healthy fat for butter while baking, you can rest easy considering the extraneous health benefits of coconut oil, such as its properties that promote higher levels of good cholesterol, hunger control, healthy digestion, and more.

Looking to save money on store-bought deodorants? Try making your own at home with just a few simple ingredients. You will surely enjoy not only the money saved but the assurance that your deodorant is full of natural products only that can be just as effective, if not more, than store-bought alternatives.

Simply combine softened coconut oil, baking soda, cornstarch or arrowroot powder, and essential oils for your preferred fragrance. Mix well, pour into a small jar, and refrigerate until set. You will end up with a soft deodorant bar that will warm to your skin upon application.

If your pup’s breath is getting offensive, consider adding coconut oil to your dog’s diet. The oil’s antimicrobial and immunity-boosting benefits can promote healthy breath from the inside out, as well as support overall teeth and mouth health.

Start incorporating a small amount of coconut oil into your dog’s food, slowly to prevent any stomach upset. You can also use a bit of coconut oil on a doggy toothbrush or piece of clean gauze around your finger to brush your pup’s teeth after meals and prevent plaque buildup.

Coconut oil is known to have many health benefits for dogs. In addition to supporting sleek coats, healthy joints, and better smelling breath, this natural oil is thought to aid in healthy digestion for dogs.

There is a wealth of dog treat recipes to choose from, but a simple one to start with consists simply of organic virgin coconut oil and blueberries. Melt your coconut oil, pour into a mold or ice cube tray, and add a single blueberry to each treat. Freeze and treat your pup to a healthy, tasty snack!

Your favorite leather boots deserve consistent cleaning and conditioning in order to stay looking their best. For best results, use coconut oil on a monthly basis as a deep conditioner for your leather boots and shoes.

After gentle cleansing and drying, use a soft cloth dipped in coconut oil to massage the boots. Let the coconut oil sit for 20 minutes and use another cloth to massage the remaining oil into the boots and buff away the excess.

Peeling labels from bottles, cans, or other items often leaves a stubborn sticky residue that can seem impossible to remove entirely. Fortunately, coconut oil can be used to quickly and efficiently clean this residue from your favorite containers so that you can safely repurpose or recycle them.

Simply take a small amount of coconut oil and apply a layer to the sticky area, let it sit for five minutes or so, and wipe with a damp cloth to remove the residue. Enjoy!

Especially in the fall and winter months, the skin on our hands and bodies can get extremely dry. And if you want to both save money and ensure that you’re using natural ingredients, making your own hydrating and exfoliating body scrub at home is a great fix for dry skin.

Combine 100% pure organic virgin coconut oil with granulated sugar in a 1:2 ratio, mix well, and let sit until ready to use. Apply the mixture to hands and body, scrub, and rinse for fully moisturized and smooth skin.

Coconut oil is a great alternative to store-bought lotions for babies’ sensitive skin. As long as no allergies exist and the product is 100% organic and virgin, coconut oil is typically known to protect and hydrate delicate skin as well as ease symptoms of eczema.

Whether it’s cradle cap, eczema, or just dry skin, coconut oil can provide natural, safe hydration for relief. Simply massage gently into trouble areas and anywhere that could benefit from extra moisture. Rest assured that you are using a natural alternative to other baby lotions.

Getting chewing gum stuck in your hair can be both quite uncomfortable and a daunting task to remove. Fortunately, coconut oil is a cheap and effective ingredient that helps to remove it quickly. Apply coconut oil to the hair where the offending gum is stuck, working it in to fully lubricate the strands, and from that point you should be able to gently pull and remove the gum without damage to the hair.

You can also use coconut oil to remove gum from carpet or other similar fabrics. The same method can be used; apply liberally to the area (after a spot test to see if the oil will stain or otherwise affect the material) and massage the gum out of the fabric’s fibers.

Cast iron skillets are a wonderful investment, and will last you forever if they are properly cared for. When you first get your new pan, take the time to season it so that it will stay nonstick. To do this, apply a liberal amount of coconut oil to the entire pan and set in a cooled oven.

Preheat the oven, place the pan inside, set the oven to 300 degrees, and leave in for thirty minutes after the oven reaches the set temperature. Let the oven and pan cool completely before removing and you will have a perfectly seasoned skillet.

If you frequently use a wooden cutting board, it’s important to clean and condition it regularly for best use and to promote its longevity. And because coconut oil is both antimicrobial and extremely hydrating, it makes perfect sense to use this inexpensive ingredient as a conditioning and cleansing agent.

After each use, wash thoroughly and then rub a significant amount of coconut oil across the board. It will help to revive any dulled wood as well as reduce the appearance of scratch marks.

To keep your bathroom and shower clean and free of buildup from soap and other products, use coconut oil as the base to an inexpensive cleaning solution. Simply mix with baking soda in equal parts until it forms enough of a paste to cover the dirty areas.

Apply mixture where needed and let sit for 10-15 minutes, even longer for heavily soiled areas. Then wipe clean with a damp cloth and enjoy sparkling tile, countertops, faucets, and more!

For a safer alternative to traditional play-doughs, use coconut oil as the base of your recipe. Melted coconut oil, salt, flour, water, cream of tartar, and food coloring are all you need to whip up a batch of homemade play-dough. Mix ingredients until they form together to the proper consistency, then let cool before playing.

Little ones will love this DIY play-dough just as much as the store-bought kind, and you can rest easy knowing exactly what’s in it. Let the crafting begin!

If you struggle with constipation or related digestive issues, coconut oil might be an effective addition to your diet. To relieve uncomfortable constipation, start by ingesting a tablespoon of coconut oil in the morning on an empty stomach and continue daily until you find relief.

Additionally, the hydrating properties of coconut oil can make it a great relief for discomfort from hemorrhoids. Consider consulting with a doctor to find out the best ways for incorporating coconut oil into your treatment plan.

Not only is coconut oil believed to stimulate eyelash growth, but it’s also known to nourish eyebrows. Regular application of coconut oil to the brows will hydrate the skin under and around the area, moisturize the hair, and help to protect and condition against regular makeup use.

Apply oil with a clean finger or cotton pad to the entire brow, making sure the skin is properly saturated. Sleep with the product on and gently rinse before washing your face the next morning. Repeat nightly and reap the benefits of consistent use.

Though conventional sunscreen products typically block a higher majority of UV rays from the sun, coconut oil can be a great alternative, whether in a pinch or for those who are sensitive to store-bought sunscreen ingredients. Apply coconut oil to your skin and let it absorb before sun exposure — it’s known to block about 20% of UV rays.

Additionally, wearing coconut oil on the skin while out in the sun can greatly aid your skin’s hydration levels, keeping you looking and feeling smooth and soft.

If you’re getting tired of cleaning up hairballs from your beloved cats, try using coconut oil. A small amount of coconut oil daily will help them better digest the hairballs and let them pass through without the need to cough them up.

It only takes about half a teaspoon to promote this healthy digestion in cats. If they do not respond well to mixing it into their food, you can simply apply the same amount of oil to their paws so that they will lick it off.

To keep your stainless steel appliances shiny and new, use a small amount of coconut oil to buff away any streaks or splotches. Dip a soft cloth or cotton t-shirt (avoid paper towels or other materials that could shed), into a bit of coconut oil and use long strokes to buff out your stainless steel surfaces.

Doing this regularly will keep your kitchen looking new and fresh. Use on any stainless steel finish, but avoid finishes that are exposed to heat, such as the stovetop — the oil could cause discoloring in these instances.

Coconut butter, a delicious spread that’s often used as a vegan alternative to dairy butter, can be expensive to buy in-store. However, it can be quite easy to make at home with just a few ingredients. There are many recipes, but coconut oil is a star player in all.

With a food processor, a couple bags of desiccated coconut, and coconut oil, you can make the mixture right in your kitchen and be done in less than 20 minutes. Use it as a spread or in baking, and enjoy the health benefits as well as money saved.

If your dog or cat struggles with ear infections, try using coconut oil after cleaning their ears. After cleansing, apply just a small amount of melted — and cooled — coconut oil in the ear with a cotton swab.

It is both hydrating and antimicrobial, meaning it will provide relief to your pet’s sensitive skin in the ears as well as prevent infection from ear cleanings, mites, or other irritants.

Not only does coconut oil make a great hair mask, but it can also be used to amplify the benefits of your regular shampoo and conditioner routines. If you have extra dry or curly hair, apply coconut oil to the ends of your hair about an hour before washing and it will help to protect each strand from potential drying effects of your shampoo.

Coconut oil can also help your conditioner work more effectively. After applying conditioner, follow with a layer of melted coconut oil all over. Let sit for a few minutes while it seals in the conditioner’s hydration, and rinse well. Enjoy healthy, shiny hair!

Next time you’re in need of a massage for sore or tired muscles, try using coconut oil as a safe and natural alternative to other massage oils. This oil is great for massage because it melts quickly with body heat and doesn’t absorb too quickly, giving you plenty of time to enjoy its soothing qualities.

When you’re done with your massage, your muscles will be relaxed and your skin soft, hydrated, and glowing.

Coconut oil has amazing antibacterial properties. That’s why it’s been used for years in ancient Eastern traditions to improve and maintain a healthy mouth and teeth. With a process called oil pulling, a daily practice can freshen breath and even whiten teeth over time.

Take about a tablespoon of oil in your mouth and swish it around for 10-20 minutes, being sure to push it between your teeth and around your cheeks. When you’re finished, spit into a trash can and brush teeth afterward.

The stubborn fat around our midsections is also known as visceral fat and is linked to health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. It is also notoriously hard to get rid of.

However, studies have shown that adding coconut oil to your diet can help promote the loss of this visceral fat. Research has toted results of decreased waist sizes in both men and women who added two tablespoons of coconut oil to their daily diets.