You’ve probably heard of coconut oil in the kitchen or bathroom, but have you ever tried using it in the garden or around the house? This humble oil is surprisingly versatile, and it might just become your new favorite natural helper.
From cleaning tough grime to repelling pests without chemicals, coconut oil can do so much more than moisturize your skin. It’s safe, eco-friendly, and affordable, making it a fantastic addition to your DIY toolkit.
In this post, we’re diving into 7 clever and practical coconut oil uses that you can try today. They’re simple, effective, and might even save you a trip to the store.
Ready to make the most out of that jar in your pantry? Let’s dig in!
#1 Makes Organic Pesticide
Source: Greengoldfarms
Tired of pests munching on your plants? Coconut oil can help. This natural oil smothers soft-bodied insects like aphids, mites, and mealybugs, making it a gentle but effective pest solution.
Just mix coconut oil with a splash of castile soap in a clean jar. Shake until the mix turns white, then dilute with water and pour into a spray bottle. Mist your plants and watch the bugs disappear, no harsh chemicals needed.
#2 Control Weeds
Source: Insider
You don’t need toxic sprays to tackle weeds. Blend equal parts coconut oil and vegetable oil, warm it gently, and pour the cooled mixture into a spray bottle.
When sprayed directly onto weeds, it smothers them without harming your veggies or flowers. It’s perfect for small patches and pathways where weeds pop up fast.
#3 Get Rid Of Grit And Grime
Source: Bobvila
Sticky messes in the kitchen? Coconut oil can handle it. Mix a teaspoon of baking soda into a spoonful of coconut oil to make a powerful cleaning paste. Use it to scrub away grime on stovetops, sinks, or bathroom surfaces.
The gentle abrasiveness of baking soda, combined with the oil’s grease-cutting power, makes cleaning faster and more satisfying.
#4 Bring Shine Back to Houseplant Leaves
Source: Outsideinco
To keep your houseplants always displaying beautiful, shiny foliage, and keep the insects away. You can add a few drops of coconut oil to a cotton cloth and gently rub them on the leaves.
Remember that when you apply the way, make sure not to place your plants in direct sunlight, as the oil will end up absorbing more heat from the sun and it can burn the leaves.
#5 Keep Mosquitoes and Insects Away
Source: Healthline
Skip the chemical sprays; coconut oil is your new bug shield. Before heading outside, rub a small amount onto exposed skin.
It helps ward off mosquitoes and biting insects thanks to its thick texture and natural compounds. For extra protection, you can even mix in a few drops of essential oils like citronella or eucalyptus.
#6 Soothe Sunburns After Gardening
Source: Verywellhealth
Too much sun in the garden? Coconut oil has your back. Its anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties offer quick relief from sunburn.
Apply a light layer to the affected skin to reduce redness, calm irritation, and promote healing. Keep a small jar handy after a long gardening session; you’ll thank yourself later.
#7 Create a Nourishing DIY Body Scrub
Source: Coconettv
Treat yourself after a long day outdoors. Blend coconut oil with a pinch of coconut sugar to make a gentle exfoliating scrub.
Massage it onto dry areas like elbows, hands, or feet, then rinse for soft, glowing skin. It’s a lovely way to use what you already have in the pantry for a spa-like treat at home.
