Lift Ink Stains

Alcohol-based aerosol hairspray can be used as a solvent to break down certain kinds of stains, particularly ink-basked ones. “I’ve even used hairspray to remove permanent marker on a hard surface like countertops,” says Stephanie Phillips, owner of Phillips Commercial and Residential Cleaning Services in Nashville, Tenn. “I just spray hairspray on the mark, let it sit for a few seconds, and then wipe it away with a clean cloth.”

Instructions:

1. Spray a generous amount of hairspray directly onto the stain, making sure to cover it completely. 
2. Let it sit for about a minute to allow the alcohol in the spray to break down the ink, then blot the area gently with a clean white cloth. Avoid rubbing, as this may spread the stain. 
3. Repeat if needed until most of the stain has lifted.
4. Once most of the ink is removed, wash the fabric as usual or use a damp cloth to remove any residue from upholstery. 

Remove Pet Hair From Fabric

Instead of wasting multiple sheets of your paper lint roller, try hairspray to easily remove pet hair and lint from furniture, clothing, or car seats. “I’ve got four cats. Trust me on this one,” says Phillips.

Simply spray a microfiber cloth with a light mist of hairspray until slightly damp. The hairspray creates a tacky surface on the cloth, helping it grab the fur more effectively than a dry cloth alone. Then, wipe down the surfaces where pet hair collects, using firm, sweeping motions in multiple directions to lift the hair. 

Eliminate Static Cling

• Similar to how hairspray can tame static in your hair, it can do the same for your clothing, curtains, and upholstery, says Amanda McFadden, a realtor and former professional dancer for the NBA.

Instructions:

1. Hold a can of hairspray about 12 inches away and lightly mist the affected area. 
2. Allow the hairspray to dry for a few seconds, and the static cling should disappear, keeping clothes from sticking to your body.
3. For extra stubborn static, spray a little hairspray onto your hands and directly smooth it over the fabric.

Preserve Flowers

Receiving a beautiful bouquet of flowers is always special, and you’ll likely want to keep them looking fresh for as long as possible. A quick spritz of hairspray on the petals and leaves can help preserve their shape and color, preventing them from wilting too quickly.

Instructions:

1. Hold a can of hairspray about 12 inches away and lightly mist the petals and stems.
2.  Allow the spray to dry completely before handling the flowers to prevent folding or changing the shape of the petals.
3. Repeat the process every few days for fresh flowers.
4. To keep flowers even longer, hang them upside down to dry and mist them lightly with hairspray. Once fully dry, mist once a month to extend their life. Some types of flowers don’t air dry well, so make sure to consult your florist for tips.

Add Traction to Shoes

This trick, often used by ballerinas, works especially well on dress shoes and other footwear with smooth soles that are prone to slipping, McFadden says. 

Spray a generous layer of hairspray directly onto the bottom of the shoes and allow them to dry for a few minutes before walking. The tacky residue will help provide a better grip on slick surfaces.

Stop Runs in Tights and Stockings

Notice a small snag in your tights or stockings? Grab a can of hairspray before it becomes a larger run. “This trick has helped many pairs of tights last for one more performance!” McFadden explains. “Clear nail polish works for this, too!”

Instructions:

1. Spray hairspray directly over the area. 
2. Let it dry for a few seconds—this will create a light, stiff barrier that helps prevent the run from spreading further. 
3. For extra reinforcement, reapply a second light mist and let it dry before wearing.