Whether it's a festival or an ordinary day, frying puris, pakoras, samosas or papads almost always leaves a little oil behind in the pan. In most homes people simply save this oil and use it again the next time they cook. But health experts don't recommend this habit. According to them, heating oil repeatedly, or cooking again with oil that has already burnt, can be harmful for your health.
So the real question is what to do with this oil if it shouldn't go back into your food. Pouring it down the drain or tossing it in the bin isn't a smart idea either. In fact, that very leftover oil can turn out to be surprisingly useful for several household jobs. Here are some practical and beneficial ways to put the oil left in your pan to good use.
Wiping Out Stubborn Stickers and Glue
The glue from stickers on glass bottles, plastic boxes or newly bought utensils often refuses to come off and leaves behind a sticky mark. This is exactly where leftover cooking oil comes in handy. Dab a little oil on the spot where the glue is stuck and leave it for about ten minutes. After that, rub it gently with a cloth or sponge. You'll find that the sticky residue lifts off with ease.
Bringing Wooden Furniture Back to Life
Over time, wooden tables, chairs and doors lose their shine and start looking old. Used oil can help restore that glow too. Take a small amount of oil on a soft cloth and rub it slowly over the wooden surface. Then wipe away any extra oil with a dry cloth. This gives the furniture a light shine and makes it look almost new again.
An Easy Fix for Rusted Screws and Bolts
Rust on old screws, nuts or bolts can make them a nightmare to open. In such cases, leftover oil works like a good lubricant. Put a few drops of oil on the rusted area and wait a little while. Within moments the rust begins to loosen, and turning the screw or bolt becomes far easier than before.
Caring for Leather Items
Old cooking oil also helps keep leather goods looking shiny. Apply a very small amount of oil on belts, bags or shoes and wipe them down with a soft cloth. This adds a gentle shine to the leather surface and reduces the dryness on it. Just remember to use very little oil, otherwise the item may feel sticky.
