This article was originally published on VisualChase
You would be forgiven for thinking that hairspray is merely a curl and crimp aid. It surely has other uses, but what are they? Read on to understand the versatility and magic of this product, with more than fifty ways to spritz. The fragrant product we used to perfect our prom hair can help with a whole lot around the home. After reading this article, you won't understand how you've lived without it!
Remove Pet Shedding Once And For All
Pets are a joy in our lives, but they do have one drawback. They are constantly shedding, and it really piles up from clothes to the couch. What's the best way to take care of the problem?
Your new go-to remover is right in the cabinet. Just like lint, pet hair will more easily come off with a rag if hairspray is applied. It's just sticky enough to make a difference!
Banish Sticker Residue
Stickers come on just about everything we buy, these days. They are pretty annoying to remove. And even if you think you succeed, they tend to leave ugly marks. There has to be a better way!
There is, luckily. Just spray the residue with hairspray, and scrub with a cloth. In no time, that eyesore should be gone for good. As it should be!
A Spare Home Air Freshener
The bathroom is a place for unpredictable smells, to be sure. And sometimes, you want to have a little predictive power, when guests are around. When things get stinky enough, you've got to be willing to try anything.
If there is truly nothing else, hairspray will do. Have you noticed most of these products are heavily perfumed? It’s time to put that to good use before anyone knows better!
Stop That Dreaded Run In Your Pantyhose
It happens to the best of us. We're all dolled up, ready for a night on the town. And just as things are starting to get good, things go bad. Nylon rips start small, but you know they are just going to take over your leg. Can anything be done?
As it turns out, yes! Before things get out of control, spray the fray. The chemicals with bond with the material and slow things down. We all wish we knew this one years ago.
Try This Bug Repellent On The Go
Bugs and camping go together like peanut butter and jelly. It's a sad fact about the outdoors. Itchy creepy-crawlies are out there, and they love to taste human skin. The question is, do they love hairspray?
They do not, researchers have found. If you have nothing else on hand, try this spray to keep the flies away. Better than bites, even if it's a bit sticky on a summer evening!
Easily Remove Lipstick Stains
The right lipstick can enhance any look. According to the mags, it's just a matter of finding the red tone meant for you. It's a tough choice. But one thing's for sure: None of them belong on your shirt!
We've all thrown out an item full of unfortunate stains. Next time, spray some hairspray on the cloth. Blot the stain, and watch it come right out!
Freeze Makeup When It's Perfect
Set it and forget it is the golden rule when it comes to glam. But as every diva knows, sweat and humidity can really get in the way of a look. Besides expensive setting sprays, is there a way to prevent that mess?
There is a little-known hack that might work if you're out of your regular finisher. Hairspray will not only freeze hair, but carefully drawn lines too. A a last resort, it's a decent one!
Freeze Fake Snow On Your Christmas Tree
Christmas is a magical time for millions, thanks in part to its charming decor. Holiday pros always make sure to add a healthy amount of fake snow to their decorations. But honestly, doesn't it seem to get everywhere?
Not anymore, we say. Place the piles where they belong, and spray away. Soon, the ambiance will be secure for the entire holiday season. What more could you want?
Keep Patent Leather Shiny Like The First Day
Leather comes in many forms, from suede to smooth to grainy. Then, there's patent leather, the shinest of all! How can you make sure the finish stays strong?
Everything gets scuffed over time. When the inevitable occurs, polish them and then apply hairspray. The idea here is that it will seal in all your hard work. And that's always a good idea!
Enhance Your Display Food In A Flash
There are those people who find themselves in need of beautiful display fruit. Maybe they own a cafe. It's such a bother to replace edible decor, over and over. Why not extend the life of the fruit you've got?
Plastic food is an option, but customers can usually tell. It looks a bit tacky, no? To make grapes and plums go the distance, spray them with hairspray. They will get shinier, and last longer this way. Just don't let anyone take a bite!
Stop Shoelaces from Coming Undone
Shoes come in a lot of styles, but not all models are created equally. The velcro buyers are probably the craftiest ones, but they have a reputation for being dorks. The convenience is just not worth the laughs! So how can shoelaces be managed, once and for all?
It's time to spray them with hairspray. They will be less slippery, and they're a lot less likely to come untied every five minutes. Speed walkers and slowpokes can both agree: This one is a welcome tip!
Thread A Needle With Ease
Threading a needle is always a task that requires trial and error. The first time rarely works. Annoying as this part is, it's the essential first step to sewing. And that's not going to change!
Pro tip: Spray the end of the thread with hairspray. This will stiffen the string and make it easier to get through an itty bitty hole. Now, those buttons don't stand a chance!
Preserve That Nice Bouquet of Flowers
There's nothing more romantic than receiving a bouquet from a boyfriend or a loved one. But the beauty of those petals never lasts long enough. How can you make them bloom a bit more?
Some people dry them into potpourri. But that's not quite the same look or feel, is it? Instead, try spraying hairspray over the flowers. They will hold their form and stay lovely for longer. It's an easy move, but not many people know this secret!
Hold Zippers In Place, Where They Belong
Nothing is less desirable than your own open fly. It happens to the best of us, sure. But is there a way to prevent this embarrassment from happening just a little bit better?
Spraying your zipper with hairspray can actually keep it up more securely. Most zippers do the job just fine, but a little extra insurance is worth it to some. Say no to unwanted airflow!
No More Dirty Drapes
Long curtains are just necessary for some living rooms. We all love our privacy, but this is at odds with our love of grand windows. Drapes from the ceiling to the floor require lots of cleaning. Especially if they are white!
Go ahead and spray the bottom third with hairspray. That's where all the dirt and dust loves to hang out. It's time to fight back! With this simple trick, you can finally take clean drapes for granted.
Lint Removal Is A Breeze With This Trick
It's gross, and it's everywhere. It never ends, either. We're talking about lint, and it's time to tackle this fuzzy foe once and for all. What's the best way?
That's a debatable question. But there is certainly one way that works well enough, and better than towels alone. Spritz some hairspray and wipe to your heart's content. Your pants will thank you for it!
Remove Marker Disasters
For any small child, a big, white wall is an invitation. It's like a giant canvas if you think about it. Magic markers can do a lot of damage when mom isn't around!
If you find an unexpected creation on the wall, it's time for some hairspray. Gently scrub the masterpiece until it disappears. And of course, be alert for surprises tomorrow. It's hard to resist, for kids everywhere!
Make Metals Shiny Again
Polishing silver is actually a full-time job at fancy restaurants. Thankfully, most of us only have to do it once a year for a holiday dinner. Since we are so out of practice, is there a tip from the pros?
Apply hairspray to a spoon or a teapot, and watch the magic happen when you rub. The new shiny surface will be revealed in no time. Plus the chemicals help fight future fingerprints!
Petrify Insects, If You Dare
It's not a hobby for everyone. In fact, it's not a hobby for almost anyone. But for the few enthusiasts, collecting bugs and preserving them is an art. What's the best way to do it, when you don't have the normal supplies?
Why, hairspray, of course. Dousing or soaking creepy crawlies in this substance will not only kill them whole, but it will keep them looking spic and span. So shiny, so perfect. What more could you want?
Light A Fire, But Be Careful
This tip is a potentially disastrous stunt. It's not for the faint of heart, and certainly shouldn't be done for sport. But sometimes, drastic situations call for extreme solutions.
It's the last resort. If you have nothing else to start a fire, it's possible to spray this hair product over a lighter and catch paper or wood with the flames. Just make sure to have it all set up, and aim appropriately. This can be a very hot mess if you stray from the plan!
Stop Blisters In Their Tracks
Are your shoes slipping and sliding? Are you dealing with blisters, at least occasionally? Of course you are. It's just a part of shoe life, and there's little that can be done about it. Or is there?
Actually adding a bit of hairspray to the bottom of your own foot would make all the difference. You can also spray the inside of the shoe. Either way, the effect is the same. There will be less movement, and things will stay in place. Less friction and more fun await!
Preserve The Loveliest Leaves
Flowers are not the only item in nature folks like to preserve. Leaves are usually looked over as an accessory. But at least in the fall, they can be the main show! How can you keep that autumn feeling going all season, at home?
For a decorating project, this tip could prove handy. Give the leaves a good douse of hairspray to make sure they are frozen in time, at room temperature. The answer is aerosol, as usual!
Remove Tricky Leather Stains
Leather is a fine and fancy material. It's not cheap, for that reason. And unfortunately, it can stain. What can the owner of a splattered leather item do to take away the damage?
Hairspray can actually loosen up the pigment from the material. Spray that stuff right on the stain, and use a clean cloth to wipe away the unwanted color. Sometimes, a sofa or a shoe can be restored. Good luck, and godspeed.
Use Hairspray For Self Defense
In the middle of an attack, it's best to have an effective weapon to win. But in many locales, citizens face restrictions. Pepper spray is not always allowed. What if you need to defend yourself in case of an attackt?
Hairspray is here to the rescue! A sharp aerosol into the eyes of an assailable or an animal will certainly catch them off guard. It will sting, surely. And that might be better than nothing, in a pinch!
Stop Art From Smudging With This Hack
Art is a unique expression of the artist, at its best. It's hard to create a moment of genius twice. It's precious, and you have to be careful while paint or marker dries. But accidents do happen out there!
Sometimes, an unwanted smudge can wreck it all. For an insurance policy, creators might want to hairspray their work, while it's still setting. Smears, be gone.
Easily Transform Newspaper Into Wrapping Paper
Wrapping paper does seem like a waste sometimes. Who wants to spend money on paper that is intended to be torn up and thrown away? People do it all the time. But there has to be another way!
The solution involves hairspray and newspaper, believe it or not. As dull as it might look at the beginning, the result here will be lovely lacquer. It will stand out in the crowd, too. Birthday boys and girls will notice the extra touch!
Tighten Those Screws For Good
Handymen are experts in screwing things together. But even the best in their craft can't guarantee that the components will never loosen up. Is there anything you can do to preserve their work?
For peace of mind, hairspray really can make a difference. First, make sure the screws are tight as possible. Then, spray away! This creates a DIY polymer seal that will help keep things snug. Easy peasy!
There is Some Hope To Remove Ink
Ink stains belong on paper, and nowhere else. The concept sounds permanent, and that's not the type of mark you want on a dress or blouse. Can hairspray aid in the cleaning process?
Indeed, it can. Everyone knows that an exploded pen can be almost impossible to clean up on clothes. But in some cases, dousing the mess in hairspray can loosen up some of the pigments for easier cleaning. Good luck!
Straighten Curtains Without An Iron
Ironing was a key part of home ec when that was still a class. But it hasn't been much of a subject in school for a long time. Do modern people even known how to iron?
Maybe they don't. But for the domestically challenged, there's still a trick to save the day. Spray curtains with hairspray, and fluff them. Good as new, if you do it right!
Strengthen Those Stockings
Ripped nylons are a terror every woman has to deal with. Hairspray has proven effective to stop a tear in action. But did you know that it can be a good preventative spray, too?
If you are worried about your stockings getting ripped, simply spray them with some hairspray before you put them on. They will be stronger than ever. Now you can take on the day without any worries.
DIY Glue Remover, Hooray
Glue is a great product to stick two things together, forever. That's very helpful when it goes where you intend. But not all things are meant to get sticky! Can hairspray help undo things, by chance?
It certainly can. To loosen the adhesive, spray hairspray on the affected area. After the chemicals combine, wait for the magic, then peel away with ease!
It's Armor For Party Balloons
Balloons are a festive addition to any party. Birthdays and even weddings wouldn't be the same without them! Everyone loves balloons, for as long as they last. But they do deflate. And, worse, sometimes they pop!
While it's not possible to make them pop-proof, it is easy to give them a little more strength. Spray hairspray on the latex, and it will have a new layer of protection. Every trick is worth a try!
Save Chalk Art All Week Long
Chalk offers children a sense of freedom to draw their imaginations big. Adults love it, too! But after a masterpiece is created outside, it's only a matter of time before it is lost to the elements. How can you help it stay visible, for all to enjoy?
Obviously, hairspray will help. It seems to help everything! Just douse the image in that stuff, and watch it last until the rain. When that happens, all bets are off — but hey, that's chalk for you!
Control Halloween Spider Webs
They might look icky, but that's the point. Halloween spider webs are designed to be creepy! They sell so well because of this, not in spite of it. But truthfully, they can get a little unruly.
Next year, be proactive. When you have the webs set up as exactly as you like, spray them with hairspray. They need to inspire screams, not laughs. On All Hallow's Eve, decor is serious stuff!
Clean Nail Polish Spills Fast
Manicures are pricy if you add up the cost over time. Buying your own polish just might be the way to go. But if you're not a professional, spills are a real hazard!
Don't panic if you've made this common mistake. There is an easy solution to that rapidly spreading mess, and it only requires a spritz. With hairspray, this liquid can be wiped up much quicker. Try it, you will see!
A Hair Dye Remover For Fabric
Brunettes are mysterious, and blondes have more fun, allegedly. But who wants to stay one way, all the time? Hair dye has been popular for decades. Unsurprisingly, it's been staining shirts for just as long!
If any dye drips on your collar, there is no longer any need to panic. Use a bit of hairspray, and gently blot the dye. It's worth a try when things get too colorful!
Combine It With Koolaid For Temporary Hair Colors
Changing your outfit is easy. Changing your hair? Now that's a big decision. Some people take the middle path and choose temporary hair dye. Is it time to try out your wild side?
Spray your hair with hairspray, and run Kool-Aid through the strands. The resulting hues make a great Halloween or school costume, any day of the week. Maybe you long suspected that drink was mostly food coloring. You were right!
Finally Stop That Static Cling
The laws of physics can be funny sometimes. Does anyone actually know what static electricity is? We don't know, and you don't either. Still, it's irritating. Can anything stop the madness?
The question is timeless. But it's time to answer it, once and for all. How can you fight that irritating, invisible energy? Just spritz your outfit with hairspray, and you're set. Static cling, be gone!
Dry Nail Polish Faster
If you want to spend a bit more, quick-dry nail polish exists, these days. But it's not as necessary as stores would have you believe. There is a trick at home that can speed up the drying process, and you probably already own the secret ingredient.
After you paint each nail just right, give them a final layer with hairspray. It's a secret few know, but that's about to change!
Make A Mohawk, Of Course
It was originally a style Native American tribes rocked, long ago. But in recent decades, punk rock has adopted the look as a rebellious fashion statement. How do they keep things so high in the sky?
It's all about volume, with this look. Vertical hair is no easy feat, but with enough patience and spray, it has been achieved. Pro-tip: Make sure to get a good clarifying shampoo, for clean up!
Conquer Your Eyebrows
An explosion of brow products has hit the makeup market in recent years. For these tiny tubes, companies charge a pretty penny. Is there a cheap way to tame those hairs?
Of course there is! Since eyebrows are just another kind of hair, hairspray will do the job. The trick is applying it properly with a toothbrush. Who would have guessed?
Keep Bobby Pins Where They Belong
The entire purpose of bobby pins is to stop slippage. Whether you have wild curls or silly tresses, hair always has a mind of its own. Occasionally, even the pins fail to contain the situation. What's a girl to do, then?
Go ahead and hairspray over the style, once all the bobbies are in place. When hair is fresh and clean, it can be especially slippery. Nobody's got time for that!
Make Dull Wrapping Paper Extra Glossy
Some save and use newspaper, but wrapping paper will always have its fans. They might like to hear that there is a way that this product can be enhanced. The most common hairspray is all that is needed!
It might look like a professional was involved after this hack is applied. Just douse the final gifts in hairspray, and wait for them to dry. The shine will be shocking!
Stop Skirts and Dresses from Slipping Up
Marylin Monroe is still famous for that breezy dress scene on the NYC streets. She handled the gust of wind with grace, of course. But there are all sorts of reasons a skirt or gown might not stay in place, and it's time to tackle one of them.
If you know you are wearing something short and tight, try applying some hairspray on your skin where the fabric meets your leg. Gymnasts already use this trick to keep their leotards in place. How clever!
Wreath Preservation Is Key
During the holiday season, decorative wreaths are a must. They shout Christmas in the best way. How can you spread the cheer for as long as possible, if you use real evergreen?
Try spraying your green wreath with a thin layer of hairspray to lock in moisture for the holidays and beyond. Some neighbors complain about Xmas decor left up for months. But with a wreath this fresh and clean, they will probably just thank you!
It's A Decent Recipe Card Protector, Too
It's a little old school, sure. But some people really love their handwritten recipe boxes. They're usually quaint and it's quirky. It's a family tradition that shouldn't be digitalized, they explain.
Some argue that it is better to keep information in electronic form. But for people who won't modernize, hairspray can help those precious recipes last longer. Spray each card, and allow time for air dry. Then, repeat the process two times. It's the next best preserver to lamination!
Cheap, Easy Glitter Glue
Arts and crafts come in many forms, but sparkles always spice things up. Glitter fanatics out there will be happy to hear that there is a new way to minimize messes.
Trying to glue glitters on items can be a mess, as you sprinkle it around and watch it ooze. Try hairspray on an item instead, and watch the glitter can stick. No muss, no fuss!
Tame Fly-Aways Like A Boss
Obviously, there is a reason to use hairspray for its intended purpose. Believe it or not, it can really help with flyaways! We're not surprised. But what is the best method to do it like a pro?
A light way to distribute it is by being indirect. Don't spray on your hair at all, for this method. Aim for a brush or comb, and then run it through. Little fuzzies will be no match, according to stylists!
Pottery and Clay Finishing Spray
Artists who work with clay are totally willing to get their hands dirty. Working with the wheel is a real rush. Freestyle is fun, too! It's worth it, they insist.
Sure, there are plenty of products at the art store designed for pottery. But everyone knows that is not a cheap shop! After a creation is finished and dry, apply hairspray. Rub it with a cloth, and watch it shine. Cheap and easy? Yes, please.
Make Rub-on Transfers Yourself
Kids love temporary tattoos. Objects get their own version, called decals. It's a similar concept, and you can buy them premade. But sometimes, it's just more fun to customize the design.
If there is a print you want to transfer, you can spray the image with hairspray. Press down evenly to make sure there is an even transfer. Then, enjoy your custom art!