Is there anything coconut oil doesn’t take care of? Coconut oil is one of my favorite go-to oils for all things related to skin and hair. I like it because it’s high in antioxidants and it helps to reduce the absorption of toxins and pesticides throughout the skin. I use it after a shower to moisturize and soften my skin and it’s a great conditioner for dry itchy scalp. I have several friends that cook with coconut oil — one friend swears that the best eggs she’s ever had were cooked in coconut oil. It also has tremendous health benefits when it comes to reducing cholesterol and eliminating internal bacterial and yeast. However, one amazing use for coconut oil that I wasn’t aware of until recently; refinish furniture and other hardwood surfaces. I came across a post on 2 Little Superheroes blog where she demonstrated how to refinish furniture with coconut oil. After doing some research, I discovered that natural oils like coconut oil have been used for centuries on wood finishes. They penetrate and preserve wood and provide a long-lasting finish that doesn’t turn rancid. If your goal is to have a chemical-free home, you should consider adding coconut oil to your shopping list.
Here are a few additional uses for coconut oil on furniture and wood surfaces:
1. Remove scuffs from hardwood floors
2. Use as an eco-friendly furniture polish – I would avoid using this if you have pets because they may want to lick it.
3. Add shine back to dull wooden kitchen and bathroom cabinets
4. Touch up the finish on butcher block counters, wood cabinets, wooden bowls and cooking utensils
5. Polish leather goods. Okay, I know this post is about wood but consider that one a bonus tip.
What’s your favorite use for coconut oil? Do you gravitate towards eco-friendly, chemical free products?
{Images: 2 Little Superheros}
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