How to Use Talcum Powder Around the House

Talc is in the family of magnesium silicates. Used in a powdered form, talc is highly absorbent and helps cut down on friction on the skin that may cause irritation. We generally associate talcum powder with babies, though it has a number of other handy uses around the house.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Work a grease stain out of polyester or polyester blends. Cover the area with talcum powder and rub it into the stain. Wait 24 hours and brush the powder away. Repeat until the stain is gone.
2. Treat and remove grease from carpet. Cover a grease stain on the carpet with talcum powder and let it sit for six hours. Vacuum the powder to remove the stain.
3. Scatter talcum powder around the foundation of the house to deter ants. Sprinkle the powder liberally near windows, doors and other obvious points of entry.
4. Untie a knot in shoelaces with a shake of talcum powder. Work the powder into the knot and then work it loose. Use this method to untangle jewelry chains, too.
5. Prevent skin irritation from an electric razor. Pat a little talcum powder over legs or face before shaving.
6. De-squeak noisy floorboards. Find the areas that squeaks and sprinkle talcum powder between those boards to cut the friction and quiet them.
7. Treat fresh bloodstains with a paste of talcum powder and water. Coat the stain and let the paste dry, then brush it away.
8. Run an empty talcum powder container through the dishwasher and dry thoroughly. Fill with flour and keep it close by when baking to sprinkle dough and counter tops.