This article highlights various unconventional uses for hairdryers around the home, including dusting radiators to improve heating efficiency, removing stains from wood surfaces, and defrosting freezer compartments. It also covers tips for relieving earaches, controlling pests, and smoothing clothes without an iron. Additionally, it features a section on top-rated hairdryer models, providing insights for potential buyers. The information promotes the versatility of hairdryers beyond their traditional purpose of styling hair.
Heating and Living
Dusting Radiators
Regularly dusting your radiators not only heats your space faster but also helps reduce energy expenses. For older radiator designs, using a hairdryer on the highest setting can effectively eliminate dust. To prevent a mess, place a damp towel or sheet beneath the radiators to catch the dust as it falls.
Removing Surface Stains
A hairdryer can come in handy for treating light stains caused by hot pots or candleholders on waxed wood surfaces. Set the hairdryer to a low setting and hold it close to the stained area until the discoloration evens out. For candle wax stains, first scrape off excess wax, place blotting paper over the stain, and use the hairdryer to melt the wax into the blotting paper. This method is also effective on fabric or carpet stains, as long as the materials are not overly delicate.
Uncreasing Carpets
For carpets with creases or wrinkles, using a hairdryer can be an effective solution—provided they have a rubber or plastic backing. Direct the warm air onto the creased sections, then apply pressure evenly with heavy objects to help flatten the area. Allow it to sit for a while for best results.
In the Kitchen
Sticker and Label Removal
Many stickers use heat-sensitive adhesives that easily detach when warmed. Apply the hairdryer to the sticker until it heats up, then peel it off. Any remaining residue can be scraped away with a ceramic tool. Likewise, bandage adhesives will also be easier to remove when warmed slightly.
Defrosting the Freezer
To defrost your freezer quickly, first move your frozen food to the refrigerator. Line the freezer interior with towels. Aim the hairdryer at the icy areas from a safe distance to avoid damaging the plastic. Continue blowing warm air until all ice melts, then dry everything thoroughly and let the compartment cool down.
Smoothing Cake Icing
If achieving a smooth and shiny finish for your cake icing has been a challenge, a hairdryer can help. Use it on a low setting to melt the surfaces gently, which will enhance the shine of your icing.
For Other Household Needs
Relieving Earaches
For those experiencing mild earaches or trapped water, holding the hairdryer about 30 centimeters away from the ear at a low setting can provide relief. The warm air helps evaporate moisture and eases discomfort. However, if symptoms continue or worsen, seek medical advice promptly.
Dealing with Pests
According to environmental organizations, using a hairdryer is an effective way to combat aphids. Gently blow the infested plants while positioned over a bathtub, causing the aphids to dislodge and fall away. For pantry moths, simply clearing out cabinets is not enough; follow up with a good blow-dry to eliminate moth eggs.
Iron Alternative
If you need to remove wrinkles from clothing and lack an iron, your hairdryer can come to the rescue. Hang clothes on a wooden coat hook for better airflow. For optimal results, lightly mist the fabric with water, set your hairdryer to medium heat and low airflow, and blow away the wrinkles.
Cleaning Your Keyboard
To quickly rid your keyboard of dust, crumbs, and hair, use a hairdryer on the cold setting. Blow away the debris while holding the device over a bathtub to catch anything that falls. Avoid using warm air to prevent damage.
Choosing the Right Hairdryer
A quality hairdryer can accomplish more than just styling hair. Various models have been reviewed, highlighting the best options for diverse needs along with budget-friendly alternatives. Check out our buying guide for recommendations on hairdryers that suit your preferences.
Top Picks from Hairdryer Tests
Test Winner
Price Performance
Best Handling
Budget-Friendly
Includes nozzle, diffuser, comb attachment, soft airflow nozzle, and flyaway nozzle
Comes with nozzle and diffuser
Features nozzle and diffuser
Contains two nozzles and a diffuser