17 alternative uses for petroleum jelly

Petroleum jelly, also known by the product name Vaseline, is a household staple, especially among families with young children. We all know about its anti-chaffing properties, but the slick substance can be useful in a lot of other ways. Here are 17 alternative uses for petroleum jelly:

1. Hate the circles left when visitors rest wet drink glasses on your favorite wood table? Buff them out with some petroleum jelly.

2. Fond of patent-leather shoes, but hate the boot-camp-like effort it takes to make them shine their best? A dab of petroleum jelly and a soft rag will have them gleaming.

3. Are you painting an intricate design on woodwork? Want to keep paint off of some sections? Coat them with petroleum jelly before picking up a paint brush. You can clean up with a paper towel afterward.