The Most Clever (and Slightly Ridiculous) Uses for Hairspray You’ll Wish You Knew Sooner

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Most people keep a can of hairspray in the bathroom and rarely think about it beyond styling their hair. But the same ingredients that help hold a hairstyle in place can also be surprisingly useful around the house. Because it dries quickly and leaves behind a light, tacky finish, hairspray can help with everything from small clothing emergencies to minor household fixes.

Of course, it’s still flammable when wet, so use it in a ventilated area and away from heat sources. That said, here are several genuinely useful ways it can come in handy.

Stop a Run in Tights

A quick mist over a small snag can help slow its spread. It’s not permanent, but it can help you get through the day.

Preserve Cut Flowers

A very light mist on the underside of petals can help delicate flowers hold their shape slightly longer.

Remove Lint and Pet Hair

If you don’t have a lint roller nearby, spray a little hairspray onto a microfiber cloth or a rubber glove, then wipe down furniture or clothing. The slight stickiness helps grab pet hair and lint.

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Keep a Zipper From Sliding

If a zipper keeps creeping down, lightly spray the teeth. Once dry, it adds friction, helping it stay in place.

Make Threading a Needle Easier

Spraying the end of the thread stiffens the fibers, making it much easier to guide through a needle.

Reduce Static Cling

In dry weather, lightly mist the inside of clothing to reduce cling. It works especially well on skirts and dresses.

Remove Certain Stains

Hairspray can help lift ink, lipstick, and some makeup stains from washable fabrics. Spray, blot gently, then wash as usual. Always spot test first.

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Clean Up Nail Polish Spills

If you spill nail polish on a hard surface, spraying it quickly can help loosen it before wiping it away.

Help Glitter Stay in Place

When crafting, a light layer underneath and on top of glitter can help keep it from spreading everywhere.

Seal Chalk or Charcoal Drawings

A light mist over artwork can help prevent smudging, especially in sketchbooks or art journals.

Add Grip Inside Shoes

If your feet slide around in flats or heels, a light spray on the soles (let it dry before wearing) can add some traction.

Tame Loose Screws

After tightening a small screw, a quick spray can help it hold a bit better as the product dries and adds friction.

Stiffen Fabric for Craft Projects

If felt or lightweight fabric feels too soft, spraying and letting it dry will add temporary structure.

Remove Permanent Marker from Some Surfaces

On certain non-porous surfaces, hairspray can help break down marker ink. Spray onto a cloth and wipe gently. How I Got Permanent Marker Off My Floor After My Kids Found a Sharpie

Weigh Down Flying Insects (In a Pinch)

If a fly is buzzing around and nothing else is available, a light mist can temporarily limit its movement. This shouldn’t replace proper pest control, but it can work in the moment.

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