Eight ways to use olive oil outside the kitchen

Olive oil makes for a delicious addition to many recipes. It is used everywhere in cooking, from making salad dressing to bruschetta and beyond. But did you know olive oil has so many wonderful, beneficial uses outside of the kitchen?

It is one of the most versatile household items we own, so take a look at these fantastic ways to start using it.

1. Shaving

Replace your shaving cream with olive oil when you shave to help lock in moisture and keep your skin soft and supple naturally.

2. Polishing silverware

Olive oil is a great alternative to clean products safely and not cause corrosion to stainless steel appliances. Gently dab a little onto a soft cloth and in a circular motion rub your silverware until a light sheen occurs and wipe gently with paper towelling to remove any residue.

3. Pet care

By adding a few drops of olive oil in your pet’s wet food, this will prevent cats from getting hairballs and will help to prevent any dry skin or skin infections in dogs.

4. Nail care

Gently rub a dab of olive oil into your cuticles and then use a cuticle stick to work it into the nail bed for beautiful, smooth and strong nails.

5. Squeaky doors

You can use a little olive oil on any squeaky doors to help lubricate the hinge and prevent those annoying noises.

6. Moisturise skin

You can use olive oil to help moisturise your skin. It is especially great for dry skin on your feet, elbows and knees. You can also combine it with a little brown sugar to make a perfect lip-scrub to exfoliate your lips and keep them moisturised.

7. Hair care

Another beauty use for olive oil is to apply to your hair before you shower. This will leave your hair soft and smooth like those television advertisements!

8. Treat sunburn

If you have been sunburnt from spending too much time in the summer sun, use olive oil as a way to ease the pain and to help accelerate the healing process. Apply a generous amount to the affected area and gently rub in with your fingertips. It will feel great.

What do you use olive oil for? Let us know in the comments below.