10 Uses for Mayonnaise

Mayo is a delicious addition to many dishes, but it can also tackle household problems that don't include two pieces of bread

By Sal Vaglica

Mayo: More Than a Condiment

Who knew that our favored BLT condiment was so versatile around the house? In a pinch, use it to help you tackle these everyday tasks

1. Remove Tree Sap

Coat still-tacky tree sap with mayo and let sit for a few minutes. Wipe away the softened sap with a clean rag.

2. Slide a Ring off a Swollen Finger

Rub a generous amount of mayo around the ring. After a few minutes, you should be able to slip it off easily.

3. Erase Crayon from Walls

Coat doodles on surfaces covered with scrubbable paint. After a few minutes, wipe off the mayo and crayon marks with a damp cloth.

4. Make Plant Leaves Shine

Bring luster to dusty houseplants by adding a dab of mayo to each leaf. Buff with a paper towel or a soft rag.

5. Banish Fingerprints from Stainless Steel

Cover messy prints with a thin coat of mayo, and use a clean, dry cloth to wipe them away.

6. Silence a Squeaky Hinge

Place a dab of mayo on a clean rag and rub it onto a noisy hinge. Open and close the door a few times to work it in, and wipe away any excess.

7. Kill Head Lice

Before bedtime, comb mayo through hair and cover with a shower cap overnight. In the morning, comb out hair, then shampoo and rinse thoroughly. Repeat as necessary.

8. Get Rid of Tar

Use mayo to coat tar that's stuck to your shoes or car. Let sit for several minutes, then wipe off.

9. Rub out Water Rings

Cover water rings on wood furniture with mayo. Let sit for a minute or two. Wipe off and buff with a soft, clean cloth.

10. Remove Sticker Residue

Dab mayo on stubborn price tags and the like, let sit for a few minutes, then rub off. The oil dissolves adhesives.