Don’t let the name fool you — cooking spray isn’t just for greasing up frying pans to prevent eggs from sticking. This pantry staple has a wide range of uses, both in and out of the kitchen, all of which can make everyday tasks a whole lot easier. So, grab a can of nonstick cooking…
Prevent Stains From Forming
Saucy pastas and greasy stews often leave behind unsightly stains on plastic food storage containers. To prevent discoloration from happening in the first place, coat the inside of the storage container with a light layer of nonstick cooking spray, and then add your food. Once the leftovers have been finished and it’s time to wash the dishes, you’ll see that your plastic container looks as clear as the day you bought it.
Remove Shower and Soap Scum
Soap scum is a mixture of soap and hard water that leaves a white, powdery residue on shower doors, tile, and faucets. Cleaning it usually requires a scrubbing brush and considerable elbow grease, but the natural oils in cooking spray can help break down those pesky lime deposits, making them easeri to remove. Just spray the soap scum with some cooking oil and let it sit for five to 10 minutes. Rinse the surface with water and dry it with a clean rag for a scum-free finish.
Shine Your Faucets
Once you’re done getting rid of all that bathroom grime, it’s time to restore some shine to your dingy-looking fixtures. Spray the sink faucet, shower head, bathtub spout, or any other metallic surface with cooking spray. Then, using a clean rag, spread the oils around in a circular motion to buff out any smudges. Before too long, your metal bathroom fixtures will be absolutely glistening.
Quiet Squeaky Door Hinges
Much like WD-40, cooking spray can be used to quiet creaky door or cabinet hinges. Spray a bit of cooking oil onto the hinge itself — just be careful to avoid getting any on the door, as the oils could damage the wood or paint. This should lube up the hinge enough to get rid of those deafening creaks.
Spray Your Measuring Cups
If you’re making a recipe that requires measuring out honey, maple syrup, or any other sticky ingredient, cooking spray is your new best friend. Coat the measuring cup with a fine layer of cooking oil before adding in your peanut butter, molasses, or corn syrup. When it’s time to pour that goop into a bowl, the contents should slide out easily thanks to the cooking spray, leaving behind little to no sticky residue.
