Olive oil isn't just a kitchen staple for cooking – it's also a versatile, natural cleaner that can bring shine and life back to everyday household items. Its gentle yet effective properties make it an eco-friendly alternative to harsh chemicals, offering a safe way to clean, polish, and even lubricate, cleaning experts say.
So whether you're cleaning a kitchen, bathroom, or looking for general tips around the house, here are eight everyday items you can clean with olive oil.
1. Wooden furniture
Olive oil can revive and restore dull wooden furniture, bringing back its natural luster as you clean. It nourishes the wood, preventing it from drying out and cracking, while leaving a beautiful, subtle shine.
Wells Ye, professional cleaner and founder of Fresh Tech Maid, says, 'I love this magic liquid that polishes, protects and restores household items – it’s basically nature’s WD-40! One of my favorite applications is on wooden furniture to combat scratches, dryness and that sad, dull appearance. Simply mix two parts of olive oil with one part of lemon juice or white vinegar and boom – you have an instant polish!'
When cleaning your wooden furniture, simply dip a soft cloth into the mixture, wring it out so it’s not dripping, and rub onto the wood in circles like you’re giving it a spa day.
'Let it chill for 5–10 minutes, then buff with a dry cloth for that timeless, "I live in a furniture catalog" shine,' adds Ye.
If you'd rather go for a more commercial cleaner, Ye recommends Rejuvenate Cabinet And Furniture Cleaner from Amazon, which is pH balanced and safe for use around kids or pets.
This well-priced olive oil doesn't just pair well with fresh bread as a heart-healthy alternative to butter, but also with wooden tables and chairs, restoring them to their original splendor. So whether you're cooking or cleaning, this affordable option does the tricky nicely.
2. Stainless steel appliances
Streaks and fingerprints on stainless steel surfaces can be a constant nuisance. Olive oil acts as a gentle polish, removing smudges and creating a sleek, spotless finish.
Lina DaSilva, cleaning expert and owner of Toronto Shine Cleaning, says, 'Olive oil is great for removing smudges and fingerprints from stainless steel appliances without the need for harsh chemicals.
'Simply apply a small amount of olive oil to a soft cloth and rub it over the stainless steel surface, following the grain. Avoid using too much oil to prevent a greasy residue.'
Be careful to avoid overly-abrasive cloths and other stainless steel cleaning mistakes. If you like a gentle scent, you can also
Cleaning pro DaSilva recommends these handy cloths, which come in a pack of 12 with assorted colors. Made from 100% thick microfiber material, they are soft, absorbant and long-lasting. DaSilva says, 'These are specially designed to clean delicate surfaces like stainless steel without scratching.'
3. Cutting boards
Wooden cutting boards can become dry and brittle over time. Rubbing them with olive oil helps to condition and care for the wood, keeping your board smooth and extending its lifespan.
Ye says, 'Wood cutting boards absorb stains, odors, and mystery liquids. Olive oil keeps them in top shape. Begin by washing the board with warm, soapy water and drying completely. Rub a little olive oil into the wood with a cloth, let it soak in for 1–2 hours, then wipe off the excess. Your board will thank you.'
Hollywood star and foodie, Stanley Tucci, also uses an oil-based method for cleaning his wooden chopping board.
If olive oil isn't giving the sheen you'd hoped, Ye recommends Clark's Cutting Board Care Kit from Amazon, which is made with coconut oil and smells great.
4. Copper cookware
Olive oil can help restore the shine of copper pots and pans. It not only polishes but also provides a protective layer that helps prevent tarnishing.
Ye says, 'If that gorgeous copper pot is looking a little... meh – no problem. Mix one tablespoon of olive oil with one tablespoon of salt or lemon juice to make a paste. Rub onto the copper in circular motions (think "wax on, wax off"). Rinse with warm water and dry thoroughly.'
For a smooth finish, Ye recommends Wright's Copper and Brass Polish and Cleaner Cream, available from Amazon. It's suitable on pots, pans, sinks, doorknobs – and even jewelry.'
5. Leather furniture
Cracked or faded leather can benefit from a light coat of olive oil, which moisturizes the surface, softens the material, and revives its natural color.
Ye says, 'Since leather gets sad and dry over time, olive oil is like a moisturizer – but for your couch, jacket, or shoes. Put a few drops of olive oil on a soft cloth, then rub in circles like a mini-massage for your leather. Let it sit for 30 minutes, then wipe off any excess (no one likes a greasy couch).'
For more cleaning tips, our experts delve into how to remove mold from leather.
Made with seed oils, naturally-occuring lipids and triple-filtered beeswax, Ye recommends this all-natural, high-quality cream, designed to rejuvenate leather by penetrating its pores.
6. Sticky residue
Olive oil can break down sticky substances left by labels or tape. A small amount rubbed onto the area will loosen the residue, making it easy to wipe away.
DaSilva says, 'For removing sticker residue, olive oil effectively breaks down adhesive residue without damaging surfaces or leaving chemical traces. Start by applying a small amount of olive oil directly to the sticky residue and let it sit for a few minutes to loosen the adhesive. Use a soft cloth or plastic scraper to remove the residue, then wipe the area with a damp cloth to remove any remaining oil.'
For an alternative, DaSilva recommends Goo Gone Original Liquid from Walmart, which is formulated with citrus agents, which leaves a pleasant smell behind.
7. Squeaky hinges
Whilst not quite a cleaning tip, it's definitely worth an honorable mention here. A few drops of olive oil on squeaky door or cabinet hinges can work wonders. It acts as a lubricant, quieting annoying creaks without the harshness of chemical lubricants and a great non-toxic hack.
Ye says, 'That door hinge has been screeching at you for months – time to stop ignoring it. Just dip a cotton swab into olive oil and apply to the hinge as though you’re giving it a tiny oil change. Open and close the door a few times to spread it around, wipe off any excess, then enjoy the silence!'
For an even better finish, Ye recommends this HōMPURE Renew Natural Household Oil from Amazon, which contains Jojoba oil and has a pleasant lavender scent.
For related tips, our guide on how to fix a door that sticks will help.
8. Scissors
Sticky blades from tape or packaging can be cleaned with olive oil. Apply a bit to a cloth and wipe the blades clean, ensuring they cut smoothly again.
Ye says, 'Sticky scissors? Rusty tools? Olive oil is the lubricant you never knew they needed. Wipe down with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or gunk, rub a little olive oil onto the metal, allow to sit for 10–15 minutes, then wipe off any excess.'
For stubborn, rusty stains, Ye recommends this Valentise Cast Iron Scrubber from Amazon, which is sold in a pack of two.
FAQs
Can olive oil go rancid on furniture or cutting boards?
Yes, olive oil can go rancid over time, especially if applied too heavily or not wiped off properly. To avoid this, use it sparingly and always buff off excess oil after application. For cutting boards, make sure they are cleaned and dried regularly.
Is olive oil safe to use on all types of leather?
While olive oil can soften and condition leather, it's best to test it on a small, inconspicuous area first. Some leather types may darken with oil, and delicate leathers could be damaged. For valuable items, consider using a product designed specifically for leather care such as bestselling Leather Honey Leather Conditioner from Amazon.
How often should I clean with olive oil?
This depends on the item. Wooden furniture or cutting boards can be treated once a month, while stainless steel appliances might benefit from a quick polish every week. Always monitor how your items respond and adjust your cleaning routine accordingly.
So there you have it, eight everyday items you can clean with olive oil. Olive oil isn’t just for salads – it’s an all-natural, multi-purpose cleaner that can tackle everything from polishing furniture to fixing squeaky hinges.
Next, check out how to make cinnamon oil for cleaning – and the areas of your home you can put it to work. If nice smells are your thing, consider using essential oils to clean around your home.
