Clever Ways You Never Thought To Use Crisco Around The Home

Crisco comes in handy for many cooking and baking recipes. It helps you to make a perfectly flaky pie crust and deliciously soft cookies, but did you know its benefits extend beyond the kitchen? It was originally created over a century ago, and not much has changed of the first-ever shortening made of entirely vegetable oil. It's become a staple you can find in nearly every household. Made primarily of soybean oil and hydrogenated palm oil, this shortening can be used in several clever ways around the home, beyond just in recipes.

While Crisco has more benefits than you'd think, there are a few precautions to keep in mind before exploring its unconventional uses. Shortening can catch fire if overheated, so keep it away from direct heat sources and open flames. Additionally, it has a shelf life of up to two years when stored properly, though it should be used within a year after opening. Check for signs of rancidity, like changes in texture or unpleasant odors, before using it for either cooking or one of the tips below. Lastly, be careful when using Crisco near certain fabrics, as it can cause staining to some. With all that in mind, let's dive in and go over all the ways you may not have thought to use this popular tub of cooking oil around the home.

While most enjoy the view of a winter wonderland during the cool holiday months, dealing with the snow isn't as magical. Shoveling snow requires much painstaking work, so you'll want to do what you can to make the job easier. One way to simplify the task is to grease the shovel before you get started. Snow tends to stick, so the time it takes to clean it off can add up. Like using Crisco to keep food from sticking to your pans, shortening can make the snow slide right off after each scoop.

Apply a generous layer of Crisco to the head of your shovel before going outside. If the snow starts to stick again, you may need to put on another layer. Although you can use any lubricant like WD-40 or non-stick cooking spray, anecdotal evidence suggests Crisco works even better. Unlike most oils, the grease will latch onto the shovel more efficiently, so you shouldn't need to reapply as often. However, being careful when spreading slippery products onto your tools is crucial. A greasy handle could lead to accidents, so use gloves when touching any oil to avoid transferring it to the top of your shovel.

Burs can be a nuisance for dogs, causing discomfort and sometimes leading to skin infections. These little spiky balls' primary function is to spread the plant seeds. As they hook onto you, your dog, and other animals, they're transported to other locations where they can sprout. This mechanism is why they easily latch into textures like dog fur. They can be challenging to pull out, especially from long-haired breeds. However, the oils in Crisco can help to loosen the burs's grip, making them easier to remove without causing discomfort to your furry friend. All you'll need is a can of shortening and a pair of gloves.

Make sure your dog is calm and comfortable before getting started. Once your pup is ready, put on some gloves and apply a small amount of Crisco to the bur where it is lodged. Gently massage it into the fur, careful not to pull. The oils should help loosen them, allowing you to remove them with ease. Once all the burs are out, wash the oily fur with a mild dog shampoo. Although Crisco is generally safe and non-toxic to pets, it's important to note that large amounts can cause digestive issues. Avoid leaving your dog unattended near the shortening, especially if it's applied in areas they can reach to lick.

There's nothing worse than a power outage during a storm, but the situation can be even more terrible if you're not prepared. Believe it or not, Crisco is an unexpectedly helpful tool to have in case of an emergency. You'll need a can of Crisco and pre-waxed candle wicks to create a long-lasting fuel source for the next time you lose electricity. A homemade Crisco candle burns for over 100 hours, so you'll have enough light to brighten up a dark home for days.

Start by cutting two large, pre-waxed candle wicks in half, giving you four wicks. Scoop out the shortening and place it in a container of a similar size. While some who've experimented with this hack have had issues with the lining melting, others say you can keep it in the can it came in. If you're in a pinch and all you have is the can and some wicks on hand, you should be fine sticking a wick down the center and lighting it. However, it's better to be safe than sorry when preparing your candles. When it comes time to light the match, ensure you're in a well-ventilated area away from anything flammable, and place the container on a level surface. After you've finished burning it, snuff the flame and place the lid back on, and then store it in a cool, dry place. Be careful when lighting Crisco, as it can create a bit of black smoke.

We've all experienced that moment of panic when sticking a key in a lock, unsure if you'll ever get it out. When this happens, it's time to lubricate it so it stops sticking. Like with squeaky door hinges, Crisco works well to get into the intricate crevices within the lock, reducing friction and ensuring smooth unlocking. Similarly, not only will the key glide the lock open like it's brand new, but it'll also help extend its lifespan.

Before sticking your key back into the lock, apply a small amount of Crisco to it. Then, insert the key and gently work it around to distribute the shortening and lubricate all of the small spaces. It should stop sticking after the first application. If it doesn't, add a bit more and repeat the process. Keep a paper towel or set of gloves on hand when doing this hack. Although Crisco is non-toxic, it can leave a greasy residue on your skin or clothing.