Every summer, we’re reminded of the importance of sunscreen. We slather it on to shield our skin from harmful UV rays and reduce the risk of sunburn and long-term damage. But when summer ends and those nearly empty bottles of sunscreen start gathering dust in the bathroom cabinet, many of us glance at the expiration date and think it’s time to toss them. It’s a common reaction, and a logical one—after all, sunscreen loses its effectiveness over time. But while expired sunscreen may no longer provide reliable sun protection, that doesn’t mean it’s useless. In fact, it can still be incredibly handy around the house in ways most people never consider.

Understanding what a sunscreen expiration date actually means helps frame the issue. Over time, the active ingredients in sunscreen—those that do the heavy lifting in terms of UV protection—can break down. This breakdown reduces their ability to safeguard your skin from the sun’s damaging rays. However, sunscreen isn’t just made up of these active ingredients. It also contains base components like emollients, oils, and moisturizers that often remain stable even after the expiration date has passed. These leftover components can serve a range of purposes beyond sun protection.

Many people aren’t aware of this, which is why expired sunscreen often ends up in the trash. But that approach leads to unnecessary waste—both environmental and financial. Instead of throwing away a product that’s no longer viable for its original use, you can repurpose it in clever and practical ways. By doing so, you not only reduce the volume of waste you create but also make your purchase stretch further. Here are ten smart ways to give your expired sunscreen a second life around your home.

First, consider using expired sunscreen to revive leather goods. Leather items like bags, belts, jackets, and even furniture benefit from moisture to stay soft and avoid cracking. Sunscreen contains moisturizing agents that can be gently massaged into leather using a soft cloth. Not only does it restore shine, but it also helps maintain the leather’s texture and flexibility over time.

Second, expired sunscreen works wonders as a metal polish. Got stainless steel appliances with fingerprint marks or dull spots? Rub a little sunscreen onto a microfiber cloth and gently buff the surface. The oils help remove smudges and leave a sleek, polished finish. Faucets, handles, and even doorknobs can benefit from this trick, offering a quick refresh without harsh chemicals.

Third, it can remove sticky residue from price tags or labels. If you’ve ever tried peeling a stubborn sticker off a glass jar or a new frame, you know the frustration of leftover gunk. A bit of expired sunscreen rubbed onto the area can help break down the adhesive, making it easier to wipe clean with a cloth.

Fourth, your garden tools can enjoy a little TLC too. Over time, exposure to moisture can lead to rust and wear. A light coating of expired sunscreen can act as a barrier against water, helping to keep shovels, shears, and other tools in working condition longer. Just wipe off any excess to avoid a greasy feel.

Fifth, you can use expired sunscreen to shine the leaves of your indoor plants. Many plant owners use commercial leaf shine sprays, but expired sunscreen provides a similar effect thanks to its oily base. Apply a small amount to a soft cloth and gently wipe the leaves. This not only improves the appearance of your plants but also removes dust buildup. Be careful to use only a tiny amount and avoid clogging the leaf pores.

Sixth, when doing messy DIY projects, you can apply expired sunscreen to your hands before working with glue, paint, or other sticky substances. Acting as a barrier cream, it helps protect your skin and makes post-project cleanup easier. It’s especially handy for those who like to work barehanded but still want a layer of protection.

Seventh, it’s great for cleaning and shining shoes. Scuffed shoes can look dull and tired, but a touch of expired sunscreen rubbed in with a cloth can remove dirt and bring back a polished finish. This works well on both synthetic and leather shoes, providing a fast way to refresh your footwear without needing specialty products.

Eighth, don’t overlook your outdoor furniture. Just like your skin, outdoor tables and chairs can suffer from exposure to the elements. A thin coat of expired sunscreen can help form a protective layer that wards off damage from sun and rain, helping your furniture last longer and look better through the seasons.

Ninth, expired sunscreen can serve as a makeshift zipper lubricant. If you have a stuck zipper on a backpack, jacket, or suitcase, dab a little sunscreen on the teeth and gently work the zipper back and forth. It helps loosen the mechanism and can extend the life of the zipper without needing a replacement.

Tenth, consider applying it to your car’s interior, especially the dashboard and vinyl surfaces. Just like furniture, car interiors can suffer from cracking and fading due to sun exposure. A small amount of expired sunscreen applied with a cloth can offer temporary UV protection and keep surfaces looking newer for longer.

All in all, expired sunscreen doesn’t have to end up in the garbage. While it’s no longer safe for protecting your skin from the sun, it still has many practical applications that make it worth keeping around. Repurposing it helps cut down on waste, saves money, and provides useful solutions to everyday problems. So the next time you find an old bottle of sunscreen in your drawer, don’t be so quick to toss it—think about how it might still come in handy. This simple shift in mindset can help foster a more sustainable and resourceful lifestyle, turning something that once seemed useless into a valuable household ally.