10 Unexpected Ways to Use a Hair Dryer Around the House

Remove Water Stains From Wood Furniture

Water rings on your wood furniture? A hair dryer can come to the rescue, says Kathy Cohoon, operations manager at Two Maids. First, make sure the surface is dry and clean, then set the hair dryer to a medium heat setting and hold it a few inches away from the water ring. Move in a circular motion to help evaporate the moisture trapped under the finish. 

"Once the ring disappears, you can apply a little furniture polish to restore the shine," says Kathy Cohoon, operations manager at Two Maids. "It's a quick and effective way to save your furniture from those pesky rings!"

Dust Delicate Items

Unsure about how to clean that artificial plants in the entryway? Use the cool setting of your hair dryer to blow the dust off of delicate items like silk flowers, lampshades, and other intricate items that might be difficult to clean with a cloth, says Kathy Turley, director of marketing at Home Clean Heroes. 

"If you have candles that are accumulating dust, use your dryer on cool to blow dust off candles to keep them looking fresh and clean without damaging the wax,” she says. 

Remove Crayon Marks

Crayon marks on the walls? That misplaced work of art is not a problem, according to Cohoon. Set your hair dryer to a medium heat setting and warm the crayon marks for a few seconds until the wax softens.

"Simply wipe away the softened crayon with a cloth,” she advises. “If there's any residue left, you can clean the area with a mild soap solution. It's a simple trick that makes crayon clean-up a breeze."

Remove Other Types of Wax

Similar to crayons, wax spills on other surfaces—like those from an overeager candle—can also be removed using a hair dryer. Be sure to warm the wax with a medium heat setting until it softens, then wipe it away with a paper towel or cloth. "This is much easier than scraping with a knife,” says Turley.

Remove Peel-and-Stick Items

Peel and stick decorating options have made it much easier to add a kitchen backsplash or pop of color to that guest bathroom. But what happens when you’re ready to try something new?

"I would have to say the most unusual way I have used a hair dryer has been to help me loosen the glue when removing peel and stick wallpaper or peel and stick tile," says Meredith Schneider, owner of Arts & Classy. Using the medium heat setting, be sure to keep the dryer moving over a small coverage area—then use care when pulling the paper or tile free of the wall. 

Loosen Stickers and Labels

Martha's favorite method for removing stickers and labels employs the use of a hair dryer. Simply apply the heat close to the sticker for about 30 seconds before gently peeling it off using a scraper or fingernail. This method will loosen the glue on metal, glass, wood, stone, and more.

"If any adhesive residue remains, you can rub it off with a cloth dipped in rubbing alcohol," Cohoon adds.

Insulate Your Windows

One option for insulating windows during excessively hot or cold seasons is to install window film. These kits are readily available through major in-store and online retailers, says Carol Alexander, remodeling content specialist at Fixr.com. 

The film is installed inside the window using double-sided tape and then shrunk taught using a hair dryer. The film provides an air pocket, similar to that of a double-pane window, for old single-pane windows. 

"Shrinking the film using the hair dryer makes it virtually unnoticeable because it eliminates wrinkles or sags that would be there otherwise," says Alexander. "This leaves a more beautiful aesthetic and makes window-gazing more enjoyable. It works amazingly well to increase the window's energy efficiency and reduce power bills."

Finalize Your Look

For those especially glam nights, a hair dryer can ensure everything is in place before you step out. "When getting makeup done, usually your next stop may be an event," says makeup artist Mia Johnson. I us"e a blow dryer on cool for easily dusting off any residue, from loose hair strands to individual eyelashes. It’s a great tool for a clean sweep."

Speed Up the Beauty Process

Whether you’re running late or simply impatient, a hair dryer is a great way to quickly dry your foundation primer, setting spray, or even a coat of nail polish. Be sure to keep the heat setting to cool or medium and keep the dryer moving to avoid burning your skin. 

Defrost Your Freezer

Excess ice buildup in your freezer is not only inconvenient, it interferes with the functioning of your appliance and can be costly if not dealt with. You can easily speed up the defrosting process of your freezer by using a hair dryer, says Turley. Use a medium heat setting, keep the dryer moving and cover small areas at a time. Also, “be sure to keep it at a safe distance to avoid water damage to the dryer, and have your towels ready to wipe," Turley says.