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Coconut oil has earned a permanent spot in many kitchens, and for good reason. It’s useful for far more than cooking and baking. Many people also keep a jar in the bathroom, medicine cabinet, or diaper bag because it can replace several everyday products.
From soothing dry skin to making homemade personal care items, coconut oil is an inexpensive staple with plenty of practical uses. While it isn’t a cure-all, it can be a handy natural option for many everyday needs. Here are 16 ways to put coconut oil to work around your home.
1. Soothe Diaper Rash
A thin layer of coconut oil can help protect irritated skin and lock in moisture while the rash heals. It also creates a gentle barrier against wet diapers. If the rash doesn’t improve or becomes worse, check with your child’s healthcare provider.
2. Help Loosen Cradle Cap
Massage a small amount of coconut oil into your baby’s scalp and let it sit for several minutes before gently brushing away the loosened flakes. Wash the hair afterward with a mild baby shampoo. If cradle cap continues or looks inflamed, speak with your pediatrician.
3. Comfort Sore Nipples While Breastfeeding
Many nursing mothers use coconut oil to soothe dry or cracked skin between feedings. Since coconut oil is generally considered safe in small amounts, many parents choose it without needing to wash it off before nursing, though it’s always a good idea to check with your healthcare provider if you have concerns.
4. Moisturize Dry Lips
Skip the lip balm and smooth on a little coconut oil instead. It helps seal in moisture and can leave dry, cracked lips feeling softer.
5. Make a Homemade Deodorant
Coconut oil works well as the base for DIY deodorant recipes. Mix it with baking soda, arrowroot powder, and a few drops of your favorite essential oil for a simple homemade version.
6. Remove Makeup
Massage a small amount onto your face to loosen makeup, including waterproof mascara. Wipe it away with a warm, damp cloth before washing your face with your regular cleanser.
7. Use It for Shaving
Spread a thin layer over damp skin before shaving. It helps the razor glide more easily and leaves your skin feeling soft afterward.
8. Soothe a Scratchy Throat
Some people like stirring a teaspoon of coconut oil into warm herbal tea. The oil coats the throat and may provide temporary comfort while you recover.
9. Care for Cold Sores
Applying a small amount of coconut oil may help keep the affected skin from becoming overly dry or cracked while the sore heals.
10. Moisturize a Dry Scalp
Massage coconut oil into your scalp and let it sit for about 10 to 20 minutes before shampooing. Many people find that regular treatments help reduce dryness and flaking.
11. Add It to Drinks or Meals
Some people enjoy adding a spoonful of coconut oil to coffee, smoothies, or oatmeal. Since it contains fat, it can make meals more filling, though moderation is still a good idea because it is high in saturated fat.
12. Use It in Homemade Mayonnaise
If you enjoy making condiments from scratch, coconut oil can replace some of the oil in homemade mayonnaise recipes. Keep in mind that it will add a mild coconut flavor unless you choose refined coconut oil.
13. Offer Mild Skin Protection Outdoors
Coconut oil has a very low natural SPF of around 4, which offers only minimal protection. It should never replace sunscreen for extended time outdoors, but it can provide a little extra moisture after you’ve applied proper sun protection.
14. Massage Tired Muscles
Warm a little coconut oil between your hands and use it as a massage oil. You can leave it plain or mix in a few drops of skin-safe essential oil for added fragrance.
15. Make Homemade Toothpaste
Many DIY toothpaste recipes combine coconut oil with baking soda for a simple fluoride-free paste. Keep in mind that homemade toothpaste does not provide the same cavity protection as fluoride toothpaste, so it’s best used with guidance from your dentist.
16. Moisturize Dry Hands and Skin
One of the easiest ways to use coconut oil is as an everyday moisturizer. Rub a small amount into dry hands, elbows, knees, or feet before bed to help soften rough skin overnight.
