If you’re new to traditional shaving (or maybe not-so-new), you probably have some canned shaving cream laying around that you’re not using any more. Here are some ways you can use up that canned shave cream usefully.
Key Takeaways
Canned shaving cream is actually quite versatile and can be utilized in various other ways. Here are some unexpected uses for canned shaving cream:
- Cleaning: Shaving cream can be a powerful cleaning agent. Its creamy texture and gentle cleansing properties make it an ideal cleaner for surfaces such as countertops, stainless steel appliances, and even leather furniture.
- Stain Removal: Have a tough stain on your clothes or carpet? Shaving cream can come to the rescue! Applying a small amount of canned shaving cream can help remove grease, ink, and even makeup stains.
- Chrome Polish: Want to make your chrome fixtures shine? Shaving cream can help!
- Artistic Play: Shaving cream can be a fun and messy way to engage in sensory play with kids. It can be a great activity for sensory development and can easily be cleaned up afterward.
Cleaning and Household Uses
Shaving cream is not just for shaving! It turns out that this product has some surprising uses when it comes to cleaning and household chores. So before you reach for that bottle of expensive cleaning solution, consider giving canned shaving cream a try!
1. Removing stains from clothing and carpets
Shaving cream can be a highly effective stain remover for both clothing and carpets.
Apply a small amount of canned shaving cream to the stain, gently rub it in, and let it sit for a few minutes. Launder the clothing as usual or use a clean cloth to blot the canned shaving cream out of the carpet. The canned shaving cream helps to break down the stain, making it easier to remove.
2. Cleaning Bathroom Fixtures And Tiles
Canned shaving cream can be used to effectively clean and polish bathroom fixtures and tiles. Apply a small amount of canned shaving cream to a damp cloth or sponge, and gently scrub the fixtures and tiles. The canned shaving cream helps to remove dirt, soap scum, and residue, leaving your bathroom sparkling clean.
3. Polishing Chrome And Stainless Steel Surfaces
Canned shaving cream can also be used to give chrome and stainless steel surfaces a shiny, polished finish. Apply a small amount of canned shaving cream to a soft cloth, and use it to gently buff the surfaces. The canned shaving cream helps to remove fingerprints, smudges, and water spots, leaving the surfaces looking brand new.
4. Removing Stains From Suede
Canned shave cream can be used as an oil stain remover for suede shoes, handbags, or even furniture. Put a small amount of canned shaving cream on the oil stain. Then, rub the cream into the stain softly. Finally, wipe off the canned shaving cream with a wet cloth.
5. Stain Remover For Red Wine
Shaving cream can also be a great stain remover for red wine. You can use it to get rid of those stubborn red wine stains on carpets and walls. Here’s how.
For a carpet:
- Apply a dollop of foam canned shaving cream directly onto the red wine stain on your carpet.
- Use a spoon to work the canned shaving cream into the stain, making sure to spread it evenly.
- Leave the canned shaving cream on the stain for a few minutes to let it work its magic.
- After a few minutes, use a clean cloth or sponge to blot away the canned shaving cream and wine residue.
- Repeat the process if necessary until the stain is completely gone.
For a wall:
- Wet the stained area with some water.
- Spray some canned shaving cream directly onto the wine stain.
- Let the canned shaving cream dry completely.
- Once dried, use a soft brush to gently brush off the dried canned shaving cream from the wall.
- The red wine stain should come off along with the canned shaving cream.
6. Spot-Cleaning Ovens
Shaving cream isn’t just for shaving! It can also help you clean your oven. Here’s how:
- Apply a layer of canned shaving cream to the inside of your oven.
- Let it sit for about 15 minutes to loosen up any grease or grime.
- Use a sponge or cloth to scrub away the dirt.
- Rinse with water and wipe dry.
7. Removing Paint From Hands
Did you accidentally get paint on your hands during your latest DIY project? Don’t worry, canned shaving cream can help you remove those pesky paint stains easily. Here’s how:
- Apply a generous amount of canned shaving cream onto the painted areas of your hands.
- Gently rub your hands together, making sure to cover all the stained areas with the foam.
- Leave the canned shaving cream on your hands for a few minutes to allow it to loosen the paint.
- Take a damp cloth or sponge and wipe off the canned shaving cream along with the paint stains.
- Rinse your hands with warm water to remove any remaining residue.
Arts and Crafts Uses
Canned shave cream can be a versatile tool for various arts and crafts projects, providing a unique texture and giving your creations a fun twist. Here are some creative ways to use canned shaving cream in your arts and crafts endeavors.
1. Creating Marbled Paper For Crafts And Artwork
Shaving cream can be used to create beautiful marbled paper. Simply spread a layer of canned shaving cream onto a tray or flat surface, then add drops of liquid food coloring or watercolor paint to create swirls and patterns. Press a sheet of paper onto the mixture, then lift it off and scrape off the excess canned shaving cream. The result is a stunning marbled effect that can be used for greeting cards, scrap-booking, and other artistic projects.
2. Making Foam Paint For Creative Projects
Shaving cream can also be transformed into foam paint, which adds texture and dimension to your artwork.
Mix equal parts of canned shaving cream and school glue, then add a few drops of liquid food coloring to create different colors. Use brushes or sponges to apply the foam paint onto paper or canvases, creating unique designs and textures. This technique is great for creating abstract art or adding texture to landscapes and still-life paintings.
3. Shaving Cream As A Sensory Play Material For Kids
Shaving cream is a popular sensory play material for children. It has a soft and squishy texture that provides a tactile experience, stimulating their senses and encouraging exploration. You can spread canned shaving cream on a tray or table, allowing kids to play and create with their hands. Add small objects like beads, buttons, or toys to enhance their sensory experience. Shaving cream can also be used in sensory bins or as a base for sensory bags, providing hours of sensory fun for kids.
Home Remedies and Other Uses
1. Soothing Sunburns And Skin Irritations
For those unexpected sunburns or irritating skin conditions, canned shaving cream can provide some relief. The cooling properties of the foam help to soothe and moisturize the affected area. Apply a generous amount of canned shaving cream to the affected area and leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing it off. This can help reduce redness and alleviate discomfort.
2. Removing Sticky Residue From Surfaces
Shaving cream can be a helpful tool when it comes to removing sticky residue from surfaces. Whether it’s a sticker on a glass surface or gum stuck to the carpet, the creamy texture of the canned shaving cream can help loosen and dissolve the sticky substance. Apply the canned shaving cream to the affected area, let it sit for a few minutes, and then gently wipe it away with a cloth or sponge.
3. Preventing Mirror Fogging In The Bathroom
If you’re tired of your bathroom mirror fogging up after a shower, canned shaving cream can be a simple solution. Apply a thin layer of canned shaving cream to the mirror and buff it using a soft cloth. This creates a thin barrier that helps prevent condensation from forming and keeps your mirror clear and fog-free.
4. Fixing Squeaky Hinges
Shaving cream can fix squeaky hinges on doors. It’s a great, affordable option. You can use canned shaving cream to silence those annoying sounds. Here’s how:
- Spray canned shaving cream directly onto the hinges.
- Take a small towel and wipe off the excess cream.
- The canned shaving cream will penetrate into the hinges and act as a lubricant.
Conclusion
Canned shaving cream is not just for shaving. It has some practical uses other than shaving that can come in handy in everyday life.
My wife and granddaughter used to make slime with barbasol. I don’t know how.
Great suggestions, Mantic. I’d never thought of most of these. I’d much rather find a use for products I no longer use (including giving the product to someone who can make use or it) so this is right up my alley.
One use I actually make of canned shaving cream is to use it in actual shaving. Not as a shaving cream, but as a beard softener of sorts. I got this idea from Boris, the old Russian master barber that used to be at the Art of Shaving in NYC.
I some times do this if my beard is particular full and stiff. After washing my face in hot water, I sometimes put the canned goo on my face, then cover it with a damp hot washcloth. Then let it sit for a minute or so. Then rinse it off and continue with my normal shave prep. I can say my beard feels noticeably softer after this treatment. I can’t say that it makes a significant difference in the shave. But it makes me feel better for actually getting some use from the product.