Extra shaving cream is great for more than shaving, and it is surprisingly handy around the house. If you have a can sitting in the cabinet that you do not want to waste, there are plenty of simple ways to put it to good use.
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You can use shaving cream for quick cleaning jobs, kid-friendly activities, stain help, and a few little household tricks that are easy to try with things you already have at home. It is one of those cheap, flexible staples that can save the day when you need a fun idea or a practical fix.
Here are 10 easy things to do with extra shaving cream.
What to do with extra shaving cream
Before you toss that extra can into a random cupboard, take a minute to think beyond shaving. A lot of these ideas work with basic foam shaving cream you already have on hand, which makes them easy, affordable, and surprisingly useful.
For the kid-friendly ideas, it helps to keep towels nearby and expect a little mess. For the cleaning ideas, test a small hidden spot first if you are unsure. A little caution goes a long way.
1. Clean chrome
Shaving cream is a quick way to shine up chrome. Slather it on, let it sit for a moment, and wipe it away with a clean cloth. It works well on faucets, fixtures, and other chrome surfaces that need a fast refresh.
For best results, use a soft cloth so you do not scratch the finish. This is one of those small chores that feels oddly satisfying when you see the shine come back.
2. Remove dried wine stains
Extra shaving cream can help with dried wine stains. Spray the foam directly on the stain, rub it in, and then toss the item in the wash. This method works best once the stain has already dried.
It is a handy trick for clothing, table linens, and other washable fabrics. If the fabric is delicate, keep the rubbing gentle and check care instructions before washing.
3. Make bath tub paint for kids
This is such a fun way to use extra shaving cream. Add a few drops of food coloring or tempera paint to the foam and let the kids paint in the tub. Cleanup is easy because everything rinses away with water.
It is a great rainy-day activity and a nice way to keep little hands busy. Just know that bright colors can stain the tub if they sit too long, so wash it out after playtime.
4. Dye Easter eggs with a marbled effect
Shaving cream makes Easter eggs look extra pretty with a marbled finish. Mix it with food coloring, roll the eggs through the foam, and let the color pattern set before wiping them clean.
This works especially well if you want something more playful than traditional dye cups. The finished eggs feel a little more special, and kids usually love the swirl effect.
5. Create sensory cupcakes
Grab reusable cupcake liners or small containers and fill them with water beads and shaving cream. Kids can scoop, stir, and pretend they are making cupcakes.
This kind of sensory play is simple but keeps children entertained for a long time. It also works well if you already have little play dishes or toy utensils from the toy box.
6. Practice letters
If your kids are learning letters, shaving cream can make practice feel like play. Spread it on a tray, counter, or tabletop, and have them trace letters with their fingers.
It is easy to erase and start over, which makes it perfect for repetition without the pressure of paper worksheets. You can also use it for numbers, shapes, or simple words.
7. Make treasure hunts more fun
Fill a large container with shaving cream and hide small treasures inside. Kids can dig through the foam to find little prizes, toys, or coins.
This one is especially good for keeping children busy on a day when you need a quick activity that feels exciting. A plastic bin or wide bowl makes cleanup much easier.
8. Reduce squeaky door hinges
Put a small dollop of shaving cream on squeaky hinges and wipe away the excess. It can help reduce the squeak or quiet it down for a while.
This is not a fancy repair, but it can be a helpful quick fix if you need a temporary solution. Use only a small amount so it does not drip or make a mess.
9. Fill balloons for a messy play day
If you want a balloon fight without using water balloons, try filling regular balloons with shaving cream instead. It is a messy, silly activity kids usually love.
You will still need to clean up afterward, but it can be a fun option for summer parties or backyard play. Just make sure everyone knows it is a foam-filled balloon and not something to throw near faces.
10. Use it as a camping hand cleaner
When you are camping and do not have easy access to water, shaving cream can work as a quick hand cleaner. Rub it on your hands and wipe dry with a towel.
It is not a replacement for a real wash, but it can be helpful in a pinch. If you are trying to conserve water on a trip, this is a simple backup to keep in mind.
How to choose the best use for your extra shaving cream
| Best for | Try this idea |
|---|---|
| Fast household cleaning | Chrome cleaning or squeaky hinge help |
| Kids and sensory play | Bath tub paint, sensory cupcakes, treasure hunts |
| Seasonal fun | Easter egg dyeing |
| Practical backup uses | Camping hand cleaning |
| Fabric help | Dry wine stain treatment |
If you have little kids, the play ideas usually go fastest. If you want to clear out cans without making a mess, the cleaning ideas are probably the easiest place to start.
Helpful tips before you use shaving cream this way
- Use basic foam shaving cream unless a project calls for something different.
- Test any cleaning method on a small hidden spot first.
- Keep bright colors away from surfaces that stain easily.
- Use towels, trays, or bins to contain messy play.
- Store the leftover can in a cool, dry place until you need it again.
These little steps make the ideas easier to pull off and less stressful to clean up afterward.
More frugal ideas to try next
- budget-friendly baby shower favors for simple, useful party extras
- DIY baby shower ideas if you like stretching supplies and saving money
- inexpensive winter baby shower food ideas for affordable party food planning
- romantic date ideas when you are on a budget if you want low-cost ways to make something feel special
Frequently asked questions
Can shaving cream really clean things?
Yes, it can help with some quick cleaning jobs, especially on chrome and metal surfaces. It is not a substitute for every cleaner, but it is useful for simple touch-ups.
Does shaving cream remove wine stains?
It can help with dried wine stains on washable fabrics. Spray the foam on the stain, rub it in, and wash the item afterward.
Is shaving cream safe for kids to play with?
It can be used for supervised play, like tub painting and sensory activities. Avoid eyes and keep an eye on younger children who like to put everything in their mouths.
What should I do with leftover shaving cream cans?
Use them for a few practical jobs, then store the rest for cleaning or play. If you have several cans, it helps to keep them grouped together so they do not get forgotten in the back of a cabinet.
If you have another clever way to use up extra shaving cream, it is always fun to swap ideas and make the stash go further.