A wool scarf or sweater can feel scratchy, but dampening it and gently massaging in about a third of a cup of hair conditioner, then letting it sit ten minutes before rinsing, softens the fibers the same way it softens hair.
Three Tricks for Beating Winter Static and Dryness
Cold, dry weather brings its own wardrobe headaches, from static cling in a favorite fleece to the occasional shock from a doorknob, and all three of these fixes use things already sitting around the house.
Soften Itchy Wool With Conditioner
Cure Static With Hand Lotion
A little hand lotion rubbed on the inside of clothing adds enough moisture to neutralize static shocks before they happen. In a pinch, a slightly damp paper towel wiped over the fabric works the same way.
Protect Suede With a Candle
Rubbing a white candle gently over suede shoes leaves a thin, even wax coating that guards against weather damage. The shoes will look chalky afterward, but running a blow-dryer over the wax until it turns clear seals in a weatherproof coating without any visible residue.
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This edition is part of the Genius House Hacks archive: 20+ years of tips, rebuilt from the original Handy Hints newsletter. Browse more hacks →