The Wildest and Most Unexpected Things You Can Do With Vicks VapoRub

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Vicks VapoRub is best known as a cold and cough remedy, but many people have found additional uses for it around the home. This familiar product has been around for generations, and while its main purpose hasn’t changed, its versatility has become more noticeable over time.

Beyond congestion relief, Vicks is often used for household fixes, odor control, and comfort measures. Below are interesting and practical ways people use Vicks VapoRub outside of the cold season.

Reduce Squeaky Door Hinges

A small amount applied to door hinges can help quiet squeaks temporarily, similar to other light lubricants.

Deter Ants and Other Crawling Insects

Some people place a thin line of Vicks near entry points, windowsills, or trash areas. The strong scent may discourage ants and other insects from crossing.

Repel Insects

The strong scent of menthol and eucalyptus can help deter mosquitoes and other insects. Some people apply a small amount to exposed skin to reduce bug bites when other repellents are unavailable.

Remove Sticky Labels and Residue

Vicks can help loosen adhesive left behind by stickers and labels. Apply a small amount to the residue, let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe it away.

Deodorize Shoes

Placing a cotton ball with a small amount of Vicks inside shoes overnight can help neutralize unpleasant odors. This works well for shoes that tend to hold smells.

Discourage Cats From Scratching

Cats dislike strong scents. Applying a small amount of Vicks to areas where cats tend to scratch may help keep them away from furniture or door frames.

Remove Lipstick Stains

Lipstick stains can be difficult to remove because of their oil content. Applying Vicks to the stain and blotting it with a damp cloth may help lift the color before washing.

Polish Chrome Fixtures

A small amount of Vicks on a soft cloth can be used to shine chrome faucets, handles, and fixtures. It helps remove water spots and leaves a clean finish.

Help Drawers Slide More Easily

Sticky drawers can benefit from a thin layer of Vicks applied to the drawer tracks or edges. This can help improve movement temporarily.

Freshen Indoor Air

Some people add a small amount of Vicks to a humidifier or let it dissolve in steam to release its scent into the air. This can help freshen the room and create a clean smell.

Ease Headaches and Muscle Tension

Applying a small amount to the temples, neck, or sore muscles may provide a cooling sensation that helps relieve mild discomfort.

Soothe Itchy Skin or Insect Bites

The menthol in Vicks can help relieve itching caused by insect bites or minor skin irritation when used sparingly.

Soften Dry or Cracked Heels

Applying Vicks to dry feet before bed and wearing socks overnight may help soften skin and improve rough areas over time.

Motion Sickness Relief

A folk remedy involves applying a small amount of Vicks to the belly button to help reduce motion sickness. While not medically proven, many people report positive results.

Ease Minor Chest Discomfort From Cold Air

Some people apply Vicks externally before going outside in cold weather to reduce the sharpness of cold air on the chest.

Make Cleaning Drains Smell Better

Rubbing a small amount around the drain opening can help mask odors coming from the kitchen or bathroom sinks.

Help Reduce Foot Odor

Applied sparingly to clean feet, Vicks may help reduce odor due to its menthol scent.

Lubricate Stuck Zippers

A very small amount applied to the zipper teeth can help it slide more smoothly.

Reduce Trash Can Odors

Applying a small amount of Vicks under the trash can lid can help mask unpleasant smells and keep the area fresher between cleanings.

Help Cover Household Odors

An open jar placed in musty areas such as closets, basements, or bathrooms can help mask lingering odors.

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