Before You Toss It: Alternative Ways to Use Old Mascara Wands
Introduction
We all have been there. You have been using a mascara for a while, and suddenly, it dries out, or it’s time to say goodbye to it. Many people toss it out without thinking if there is any other use of the mascara wand. However, mascara wands can be repurposed, and there are many ways to do so. From grooming pets to crafting, there are many ways to upcycle old mascara wands.
Why Repurpose Mascara Wands?
You might be thinking, why bother repurposing mascara wands? Isn’t it better to toss it away and buy a new one? The answer is no. Tossing them in the trash is not environmentally friendly. Mascara wands can take years to decompose, and they create pollution. Moreover, reusing old mascara wands can save you money, and you can use them for various household tasks and craft projects.
How to Clean Old Mascara Wands?
Cleaning old mascara wands is essential before repurposing them. You don’t want any bacteria to grow on it, which can cause infections. Here is how you can clean them:
- Remove the residual mascara from the wand using tissues or a cotton ball.
- Prepare a bowl of warm water and add a drop of dishwashing liquid.
- Dip the wand in the water and rub it with your fingers to remove all the mascara residue.
- Rinse the wand with water.
- Place the wand on a clean cloth to dry.
Alternative Ways to Use Mascara Wands
Here are some ways to repurpose old mascara wands.
Grooming Pets
You might be surprised to know that mascara wands can come in handy when grooming pets. Mascara wands can be used to remove fleas and debris from pet fur. They can also help in combing tangled and matted fur. Before using mascara wands on pets, make sure to clean them thoroughly.
Removing Splinters
If you or your child gets a splinter, you can use a mascara wand to remove it. The bristles of the mascara wand can effectively grab and remove the splinter. Apply some glue to the bristles and press it gently on the affected area. Wait for a few minutes, and then pull the wand gently to remove the splinter. Clean the area with a mild antiseptic.
Cleaning Small Spaces
Mascara wands can be useful when it comes to cleaning small spaces, such as cracks, gaps between tiles, and keyboards. The small bristles of the wand can easily remove dirt and debris from tight spaces where the fingers cannot reach. You can also use the wands to clean your hairbrush.
Applying Hair Dye
Mascara wands can come in handy when applying hair dye to small sections of the hair, such as roots and hairline. The small bristles of the wand can help in even application of hair dye and avoid staining the skin.
Crafting
Mascara wands can be used for various crafting projects. You can use them to create textures in paintings, apply glue to small areas, or make ink splatters. They can also be used to create textures in clay sculptures or help in applying glitter on paper crafts.
Hanging Decorations
You can use mascara wands to create a hanging loop for decorations. Use pliers to bend the brush handle, and then thread a string or ribbon through it. Tie a knot, and you have a hanging loop for ornaments, wall hangings, and other decorations.
FAQs:
1. Can I reuse an old mascara wand without cleaning it first?
No, it’s not recommended to reuse an old mascara wand without cleaning it first. Old mascara brushes may contain bacteria, and it can cause infections.
2. How often should I clean my mascara wand?
You should clean your mascara wand every month. It will ensure that it’s free from bacteria and extend its lifespan.
3. Can I use a mascara wand on my eyebrows?
Yes, you can use a mascara wand to brush and shape your eyebrows. Make sure to clean it thoroughly before using it on your eyebrows.
4. Can I use a mascara wand for nail art?
Yes, you can use a mascara wand to create nail art. Use the bristles to create dots, stripes, and other patterns on your nails.
5. Can I donate my old mascara wands?
Yes, you can donate your old mascara wands to animal shelters. They repurpose them by using them for grooming pets.
Conclusion
Before tossing out old mascara wands, think of ways to repurpose them. They can be useful in many household tasks and crafting projects. Plus, repurposing them is an eco-friendly alternative to throwing them in the trash. Clean old mascara wands thoroughly before using them, and they can last for years.
