Nail polish remover can erase more than just a chipped manicure. This incredibly versatile product can remove stains, restore old items, and even be used as a disinfectant. Whether you paint your nails or not, acetone is great at breaking down difficult-to-dissolve messes, while non-acetone versions can be used for gentler cleaning tasks. Here are eight alternative ways to use nail polish remover around the house.
Remove Sticky Residue
Nail polish remover quickly removes sticky residue on glass, wood, or plastic surfaces. Dip a cotton ball or paper towel in nail polish remover and blot the sticky residue until it is fully saturated. Let it sit for several minutes before wiping it clean. Make sure to use a non-acetone nail polish remover, as acetone may damage plastic surfaces.
Clean Stained Ceramics
Instead of scrubbing ceramic surfaces at full power, save your energy and put nail polish remover to work. To remove stains from ceramic bathroom tiles and bathtubs, clean the area with a cotton ball or rag soaked in nail polish remover. Then, wash thoroughly with soap and water. You can use the same process to remove beverage rings from your ceramic drinkware.
Erase Permanent Marker
Nail polish remover can handle ink stains on skin, glass, and most fabrics. Use a cotton round to dab the stain with nail polish remover until it fades, or pour a small amount directly onto the spot. Then, wash as usual.
Keep Shoes Shiny
You don’t need a special kit to revive worn leather shoes. Buff away scuffs and dirt with a disposable rag soaking in nail polish remover. After the marks are gone, wipe the shoes with a clean rag until dry. The pair will be shiny and as good as new.
Restore Faded Floors
If your floors are made of tile or laminate, nail polish remover can restore vitality. Use a rag or mop soaked in nail polish remover to wipe away scuffs and dirt, leaving your tile vibrant. However, this is not recommended for wooden floors as it damages the wood.
Disinfect Grooming Tools
Using dirty tweezers or razor blades may lead to an infection, but you can quickly disinfect grooming tools with nail polish remover. Wipe tools with nail polish remover before washing them with soap and water. Let the tools dry before using them as usual.
Clean Computer Keyboards
The more you use your computer, the dirtier the keyboard gets. Use a non-acetone nail polish remover to gently wipe away the grime from your keyboard to restore its sheen.
Restore Old Nail Polish
Nail polish remover doesn’t just remove nail polish — it can also bring old bottles back to life. Add a drop or two of acetone nail polish remover to a bottle of clumpy nail polish and mix. The nail polish will liquefy and become the perfect consistency to paint your nails.
Featured Image Credit: marcoroco/ iStock
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