If you thought baby powder was just for dusting diapered bottoms – think again. This medicine cabinet staple is more than just a baby essential – it’s a multi-purpose miracle worker!
But before we get into the long list of household tasks baby powder can tackle, let’s talk talc. This mineral may have harmful effects when inhaled, which is why you should always use talc-free products around your little one (oh – and you, too!) and avoid shaking anything directly onto your baby or into the air.
1. Pet grooming: If Fido is smelling a little funky, add a few sprinklings of baby powder to his coat and gently brush away to absorb moisture and other odor-causing molecules. (Be careful not to let your pet inhale or lick the powder.)
2. Dry shampoo: The same concept works on your hair, too! To mix up a quick DIY dry shampoo, simply add 1-2 drops of essential oil and mix with equal parts talc-free baby powder and baking soda. Add to roots, then comb through to brush out. (Similarly, you can use baby powder in place of cornstarch in these DIY dry shampoo recipes.)
3. Between the sheets: It’s no fun to wake up hot and sticky — to beat the summer heat, sprinkle a bit of baby powder between your sheets to keep them cool and absorb sweat.
4. Grease-be-gone: Oops – got a spot of grease on the kitchen rug? (Or on your favorite shirt?) Blot it with baby powder to absorb the oil and remove grease odors.
5. DIY deodorant: Making your own deodorant may sound a little crazy, but it’s easier than you think. In this recipe for DIY deodorant with coconut oil, the cornstarch can be subbed for talc-free baby powder.
6. Room refresher: Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil (peppermint, sweet orange, lemon) to a small container of baby powder to make your own room freshener. (We don’t recommend leaving this mixture out uncovered if you have small children – baby powder is VERY hard to vacuum up!)
7. Friction fighter: Whether it’s from walking in your favorite pair of snug-fit jeans or running on a hot day – chafing happens. Help fight friction by dusting your thighs with a bit of fresh-smelling natural baby powder beforehand.
8. Lash volumizer:This one’s a secret straight from the makeup pros — (very carefully) add a small amount of baby powder to lashes in between coats of mascara to make them look fuller.
9. Funky feet: Much like baking soda, you can use baby powder to freshen up a pair of shoes that have gotten a little…funky.
10. Necklace detangler: If you’re like me and always forget to hang up your necklaces, this one is a huge help – a sprinkling of baby powder on the chain can help untangle even the craziest knotted mess.