Coconut oil has been a huge topic of conversation in recent years. People have added it into their daily diets because of it’s amazing health benefits – from reducing inflammation to strengthening heart health. While coconut oil certainly packs a powerhouse of benefits when you use it in the kitchen, there are many other uses for it OUTSIDE of the kitchen. Today, we’re sharing some of our favorite ways to use coconut oil in the every day since it’s on sale at a GREAT price right now. So pick up a jar and try some of these uses for yourself!
Moisturizer
Some people say coconut oil can solve just about any problem. Dry skin? Coconut oil. No shaving cream? Coconut oil. Financial problems? Coconut oil. All jokes aside, coconut oil is a great moisturizer for all over your body. It is super hydrating and can even help with aging skin! Just rub a small amount as you would with lotion and your skin will drink up the hydrating benefits of this versatile oil.
Seasoning cast iron
This one is cheating a little since it’s technically in the kitchen – but still very outside the box! Coconut oil has a high smoke point, making it a perfect oil to use when seasoning your cast iron. Seasoning is important to extend the life of your cast iron and help it maintain integrity. Ready to get seasoning? Here’s a great way both clean and season your cast iron to keep it in your family for generations to come.
Deodorant
Coconut oil attracts many because of it’s anti-inflammatory properties. But, in addition to baking and cooking, you can use it in other ways to reap these benefits. Along with being anti-inflammatory, using coconut oil as a deodorant is great because it is also antibacterial and hydrating. Just mix 1/2 cup of baking soda with 1/2 cup of arrowroot together, and slowly add melted coconut oil until a thick paste forms. Add about 20 drops of lavender essential oil for a fresh smell (or any essential oil you prefer!) Store in a small glass jar.
Toothpaste
Similarly, making your own toothpaste with coconut oil is as simple as it gets. But why make your own toothpaste? For one, you will know exactly what ingredients you are putting into your mouth and potentially ingesting. Second, coconut oil is known for protecting against gum disease and tooth decay. Your teeth will thank you! Simply mix a few ingredients and you are good to go!
Clean Sticky Residue
Don’t you hate when you try to peel off a label or price sticker and you’re left with sticky residue that is close to impossible to clean? Well, we have a solution for that: coconut oil! Rub some oil on the residue and let it sit for a few minutes. Wipe it with a cloth or paper towel, and no more sticky residue! This will be a major game changer for all of your glass-inspired DIY crafts.
Hair Mask
By now, you’re thinking “you can use coconut oil for just about anything”. And, well, you’re right! Because of it’s hydrating nature, it is the perfect ingredient as a hair mask to revitalize and rejuvenate your hair. All you need is a little scoop of oil – warm it up by rubbing your hands together. Lightly run your hands through your hair to coat, starting from the tips up (don’t rub it into your scalp though). The best part? You can let your hair soak for up to 24 hours! The longer, the better. When you’re ready, just hop in the shower and really scrub your hair out to make sure you get all of the oil off. Then shampoo and condition normally, and you will have super soft and silky hair for days.
Clean Bathroom Scum
We’re always on the hunt for greener, non-toxic ways to clean our homes. We like to opt for these cleaners so they don’t pose a threat to our family and furry friends. Coconut oil is no exception! Mixing it with baking soda to form a paste works as a great green alternative to remove tough, built-in bathroom scum. Simply lay a thin layer on soap scum and mildew and let sit for 15 minutes. Wipe clean with a towel and voila!
