How to Use Olive Oil Around the House

Extra virgin olive oil is pressed from young olives soon after they are harvested. When taste is important, extra virgin olive oil is the best choice. For non-food uses, the lower grades of olive oil are less expensive and work just fine. Save the extra virgin olive oil for cooking and use plain olive oil to help out around the house.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Banish acne. Make a paste of 4 tbs. of salt and 3 tbs. of olive oil. Work the mixture in the hands and then work it around on the face. Leave it for 2 minutes, then rinse with warm, soapy water. Use daily for 7 days, then every 3 days for a noticeable improvement.

2. Restore an old baseball mitt to its former glory. Work olive oil into the dry, cracked areas of the glove and let it set for a half-hour to soak in and recondition the leather. Wipe off any excess

3. Remove grease and paint from hands with a teaspoon of olive oil and a teaspoon of sugar. Rub the two between the palms and fingers for a few minutes, then wash well with soap and water.

4. Slather on some olive oil as a substitute shaving cream. Apply a thin layer to face or legs for a clean shave and soft, smooth skin afterwards.

5. Whip up a batch of furniture polish. Mix 2 parts olive oil and 1 part lemon juice in a clean spray bottle. Shake well and spray it on, then wait two minutes before wiping it off. Use undiluted olive oil as furniture polish, too. Put a little on a paper towel. Wipe up an excess with an absorbent cloth.

6. Condition hair with olive oil. Heat up 1/2 cup and massage into hair. Pay particular attention to the ends. Cover hair with plastic wrap, and then cover with a towel to retain the heat. Leave on for 45 minutes, then shampoo and rinse as usual.

Resources

• 25 uses for olive oil.