Unexpected Things You Can Clean & Shine With Pledge Polish

It's common to grab a can of Pledge to help your old wooden furniture shine or eliminate pesky scuff marks. However, did you know you can use this household polish to fix a host of other common problems around the house? From transforming your car's interior to repelling spiders, the iconic cleaner is actually a versatile product. Plus, it has an uplifting citrusy scent and a budget-friendly price point.

Imagine picking up a can of Pledge and using it to prevent water spots in your bathroom and kitchen or for shining your shoes. Thanks to Pledge's unique formula, this product can tackle it all. When it's time to cross things off your to-do list and make your home spotless, you can use Pledge to replace several products. So, grab that bottle from under your sink and go on a journey to uncover its many surprising and valuable applications around your home!

The reason lemon Pledge repels spiders is two-fold. First, Pledge has a notable scent from citrus oils, acting as a natural deterrent. Spiders taste through their feet and are repelled because they find the citrus taste unpleasant. This product also has silicone and wax components in the formula, modifying the surface's texture. These dual features discourage spiders from walking on sprayed areas and reduce the chances of them hanging around and building webs on treated surfaces.

To use this simple and effective way to keep creepy crawlies from scurrying into your home, focus on the window frames and doorways where spiders commonly enter. Spraying Pledge on these surfaces makes these key entry points less inviting, encouraging them to go elsewhere. This makes it preferable to harsh chemical insecticides, especially in homes with children, pets, or those sensitive to strong chemicals. Plus, this has the added benefit of cleaning and polishing these frames, leaving them looking neat and shiny.

Some car enthusiasts claim that Pledge is very effective for DIY car detailing, especially vinyl, dashboards, leather seats, and non-porous surfaces. Unlike abrasive cleaners, the spray won't dry out leather and vinyl because it has wax in the formula. The silicone-based coating cleans the materials while leaving a thin layer that adds shine while repelling dust. However, others claim that it can leave a residue or build-up so use it sparingly until you see how your material reacts.

When using it to clean these surfaces, add it onto a soft, microfiber cloth instead of directly onto the area. You want to avoid spraying it onto whatever you're cleaning because this can cause it to oversaturate the surface. With leather, this can cause darker spots that stand out against the regular coloring. Use the rag to wipe down your car's interior, focusing on areas where dirt collects, like cracks or seams. 

Pledge works as a shoe polish because it contains silicone in the formula, and these polymers add a lasting, noticeable shine to your shoes' surfaces. However, there are more benefits than just aesthetics. The silicone creates a protective layer that helps prevent minor scuffs or water damage, making it useful to keep your shoes nice if you live in an area with varying weather conditions. This works very well on shoes that look dull or worn or ones that have lost their original sheen. Motorcycle enthusiasts also claim you can use it on synthetic leather, patent leather, and some types of vinyl.

First, spot test the cleaner on a part of the shoe that's not visible and see how the material reacts. Then, start by holding your Pledge can a few inches away from the shoe and spray a fine mist over it. Get a clean, soft cloth and gently buff your shoe's surface. Work in circular, small motions to get a thin, consistent application and ensure that you don't oversaturate one specific area. This will give you an even finish, and you want to reapply it every few months to keep your shoes looking shiny and extend their lifespan. As a bonus, it makes future cleanings easier because it repels dirt and dust.

To keep your kitchens or bathrooms spotless, DIYers say to use Pledge on surfaces like stainless steel sinks and glass shower doors. This is because these surfaces are prone to spots building up due to regular contact with water and its mineral content. Regularly applying Pledge to these areas keeps them looking cleaner and gives them a subtle shine because it creates a water-repelling surface, reducing water spot formation. As the droplets evaporate, they leave minerals behind that turn into that unpleasant white film. By adding Pledge, the silicone encourages the water to run down the drain instead of sitting on the sink or clinging to the shower door and drying.

Applying Pledge on surfaces like faucets, shower doors, and kitchen sinks is a clever solution because a quick application can help you keep your bathrooms clean easier. Spray a small amount of Pledge right onto the surface or on a clean and dry cloth. Gently wipe the ceramic, glass, or metal surface, paying close attention to areas that come into frequent contact with water.

Metal fixtures and stainless steel appliances are popular in modern design but keeping them fingerprint and smudge-free is an ongoing battle. Cleaners swear by Pledge to clean and protect metal fixtures and stainless steel appliances. The cleaner leaves a silicone-based, protective film behind that reduces water and fingerprint adhesion. The layer doubles as a barrier that makes subsequent cleanings easier because there will be fewer smudges to wipe away. Plus, it can break down and remove oily residue and everyday grime that dot your stainless steel appliances, handles, and faucets.

To use it, spray a small amount of Pledge onto the metal surface or stainless steel or spray a microfiber cloth. Gently wipe down the metal fixture or stainless steel, working with the metal's grain to avoid streaking. Using Pledge gives you consistently shiny and well-maintained fixtures and appliances. You can even pair it with coconut oil to give your stainless steel an extra-shiny look.

Pledge's silicone and wax-based formula is the key to its efficiency in helping with squeaky door hinges or sticky windows according to professional cleaners. Silicone has lubricating properties, reducing friction between the moving parts. And the wax provides a slick layer to prevent the friction from coming back right away. The friction reduction makes Pledge an efficient option to silence a squeaky hinge or open a stuck window. Once you apply it, you should notice an immediate change in the noise levels or how hard the windows are to open and close. 

Pledge is a convenient and effective lubricant for these common problems. Also, the ease of application makes it a good option for fast fixes around the house. To address a squeaky door hinge or stuck window track, spray a small amount directly onto it, ensuring it gets into all the moving parts. Pledge's fine mist allows for precise and controlled application, ensuring it gets into problem areas without leaving a mess or overspray.

Your kitchen counters, especially areas by the oven or stovetop, are prone to staining due to heavy use or having issues with grease splatters. But the protective measure you get when using Pledge on kitchen counters are twofold. First, it simplifies cleaning because you can easily wipe spills away without scrubbing, cleaning bloggers claim. Second, the silicone barrier prevents stains from sinking into the countertop's material, keeping it looking pristine and new while minimizing the impact of these messes. 

Start the process by thoroughly cleaning the countertops and allowing them to dry. Having clean and dry counters helps the cleaner adhere better. Then, spray a thin layer of Pledge on your countertops, focusing on high-use areas. Take a soft cloth and wipe the Pledge to distribute it across the surface evenly. You can later reapply as part of your cleaning routine can extend your countertop's lifespan and looks, making them more wear-resistant.

In areas of your home like bathrooms or kitchens, wooden cabinets tend to build up a lot of grime and dust. Applying a coat of Pledge to these cabinets will clean the surface and strip away dirt, leaving a nice sheen to enhance the wood's natural beauty. Pledge also has a formula that is designed to offer more than immediate cleaning results. When you apply it, it leaves a dust-resistant layer that acts like an anti-static barrier. This makes grime less likely to stick to the cabinets and build up, simplifying your cleaning process. In turn, this may allow you to go longer between cleaning sessions without sacrificing the aesthetic appeal of your cabinets.

The application process is simple; all you do is spray a light layer of Pledge onto a clean, soft cloth or right onto the cabinet. Gently wipe down the wooden surfaces, paying special attention to any frequently touched areas, like handles, because this is where dirt and oils will build up. Each time you clean, give your cabinets a quick wipe down with Pledge to keep the protective film and barrier in place. 

Outdoor grills get coated with grime and grease, even on the outer surfaces. This buildup can be challenging to clean and distract from its pristine look, but grill masters claim applying Pledge can be a game-changer. It's a simple habit for keeping your grill clean, and the barrier it forms helps make maintenance easier because grease won't build up as easily. 

To use it, ensure the grill is clean and cool to the touch, spray the Pledge onto a cloth, and wipe down the exterior surfaces, including the side tables and lid. The protective silicone layer's advantage will become clear when you see how it prevents splatters from sticking to the surface. This makes cleaning less time-consuming because you're wiping the contaminants away instead of having to scrub at them with specialized cleaners. Each time you clean your grill, allow it to dry and apply another layer of Pledge to keep it looking its best and functioning in top shape.

Bicycles build up mud, dirt, and grime, whether you use them for a daily commute or just to get out of the house. Cyclists claim pledge is a simple but effective way to enhance your bicycle's look while stripping away anything that may dull its shine. Along with the cleaning capability, Pledge leaves a silicone-infused protective coating on the frame and components. This will help protect your bike against everyday things like dust, mud, and moisture. It doesn't allow these things to stick to your bicycle, so you can wipe them away with ease and without specialized cleaners. 

Spray your Pledge on a cloth and wipe down your frame and components to make your bike look new. You'll lift the dirt and grime as you wipe, revealing the glossy surface. Pledge works great for a deep clean before you hang the bike on the wall for the season. Or, keep it on hand for a quick touch-up on the metal, plastic, and painted parts, including the seat post, handlebars, and rims.

Window blinds build up dust and can be time-consuming to clean regularly. However, coating them with a spray of Pledge gives you an efficient solution and the benefits go beyond immediate cleaning. When you apply it, Pledge traps dust particles, preventing them from resettling into lower blind slats and making them look dingy. Plus, your blinds will also stay dust-free longer due to the anti-static layer it leaves. It can even reduce how much you have to clean them and will leave a very subtle gleam on the blind's surface, enhancing their appearance. 

Before you spray your blinds, get a clean cloth and wipe them down to remove most of the dust, working from the top of your blinds down. Spray Pledge into a soft cloth and wipe every slat, ensuring you get the upper and lower surfaces of each. You can use the cleaner on various blind types, including metal, vinyl, and wood. Applying it once every few weeks will make your window blinds look cleaner and more attractive, reducing their maintenance needs while improving your space's ambiance.

Keeping your sunglasses and regular glasses scratch-free and clean is essential for seeing well. Pledge, commonly used on household surfaces, is a unique solution for protecting and cleaning your lenses according to some industry experts. As you wipe the Pledge into the surface, it'll impart a light barrier that helps prevent fogging. This is a common problem, especially when wearing a mask with your glasses or transitioning from a cold to a warm environment. Plus, the effective but gentle formula can remove fingerprints, light grime, and smudges that typically build up throughout the day. 

To clean your glasses, look at the lenses and ensure no abrasive sand or dirt is stuck to them that could cause scratches. Spray a small amount of Pledge onto a lint-free cloth and gently wipe the lenses using a slow, circular motion, allowing them to dry before wearing. Regularly cleaning your glasses with Pledge can keep them in excellent condition, helping to maintain their appearance and functionality.

Musical instruments, from woodwind clarinets to brass trumpets, need careful maintenance to preserve their looks and sound quality. Though the thoughts are mixed, some musicians claim that Pledge is excellent for removing fingerprints, everyday grime, and smudges from their surfaces. The layer it leaves behind could offer a slight protection against environmental factors, like humidity, to help preserve the finish. As a bonus, gently wiping them down with Pledge can help maintain their aesthetic appeal. It's especially effective for instruments with shiny surfaces prone to showing dust or visible fingerprints. 

To apply it, ensure no loose debris or dust on your instrument first. Then, spray Pledge onto a cloth and gently wipe down the surface, moving along the contours and carefully around delicate components like keys and valves. Don't spray it directly onto the instrument because this can cause overspray and a waxy buildup in the intricate parts that create sound. Make sure to check with your instrument's manufacturer and spot-test the cleaner on an inconspicuous area before using it.