More Surprising Uses for Mayonnaise Around the House

Spread a thin layer of mayo on the outside of a grilled cheese sandwich instead of butter before grilling for a crispy, golden crust with a slightly different flavor.

The oils and fats in mayo can help moisturize hair. Apply a small amount, leave it in for 15 to 20 minutes, then rinse thoroughly for softer, shinier locks.

Rub a bit of mayo on sticky residue left by a label or sticker, let it sit a few minutes, then wipe away; the oils help break down the adhesive.

A small amount on a paper towel, gently wiped over houseplant leaves, removes dust and adds a bit of shine.

Mix a small amount of mayo with lemon juice, apply to wood surfaces, let sit briefly, then wipe off for a natural shine.

A dab of mayo rubbed gently onto crayon marks on walls or furniture can help lift them before wiping clean.

Mayo applied to tar or sap on a car's exterior, left for a few minutes, helps loosen it for easy wiping.

A small amount of mayo left on a scratch for a few minutes, then buffed with a cloth, can temporarily mask the mark.

Brushing meat with mayo before grilling can help prevent sticking and add flavor.

Some people apply a thin layer of mayo to the skin as a natural moisturizer, rinsing off after a few minutes, though it's worth being cautious with sensitive skin or allergies.

Some people have used mayo as part of a home lice treatment, applying it to the hair, covering with a shower cap, and leaving it overnight, with the idea that it may help suffocate lice. It's best to consult a healthcare professional for a safe, effective treatment rather than relying on this alone.

A thin layer of mayo applied to candle wax drippings, left to sit, makes the wax easier to gently scrape off. As with any unconventional household use, it's worth testing mayo on a small, inconspicuous area first, and sticking to plain mayo without added flavorings for these purposes.