10 Uses for Peanut Butter at the Campsite

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Peanut butter is a handy item to have lying around your house. But, at the campsite, it's even handier. Whether you have sticky hands or a rickety old camping chair, find out how peanut butter can be delicious and helpful at the campsite.

1. Remove Gum From Hair

If your kid comes back to the campsite with gum in their hair, don't fret. Peanut butter works like a charm to get this sticky stuff out. Gently rub peanut butter on the gum with your thumb and your forefinger, slowly working it until you notice the gum is gone. This should take 10 to 15 minutes. Once the gum is gone, brush your kid's hair, and then wash with shampoo.

2. Cook With it Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Many people prefer their peanut butter straight out of the jar with a spoon. But, it's more versatile than that. Add some to a pan with noodles and sesame seeds for a Thai inspired dinner, put it on bread with sliced banana for lunch, or have a bacon, egg and peanut butter sandwich for breakfast.

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3. Shave

If you don't have your shaving cream and need to clean up, peanut butter is your solution. The oil and creamy texture helps you get a close shave without cutting yourself. This goes for men and women.

4. Remove Sticky Sap From Hands

You know that sticky finger feeling: you just touched the bark of a tree and now your fingers are covered in sap. Rid your hands of the stickiness, and rub peanut butter on your fingers. After a few minutes, wash your hands and they'll be sap-free.

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5. Clean Leather Furniture in RV

If you plan to have guests over, and your leather furniture needs a quick cleaning, head to the kitchen. Use a soft cloth to rub a very small amount of peanut butter on the spots that need shining, and buff away the leftover residue. Add a small drop of essential oil to the peanut butter to mask the pungent smell.

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6. Feed Your Pet Emergency Medication

In the unlikely event that something happens to your pet—like a snake bite or bad cut—medication may be necessary. If your pet is hesitant to take necessary medication, stick it in a glob of peanut butter.

7. Spread it on a S'more

What's better than melted chocolate, gooey marshmallow and cinnamon graham cracker? All that with peanut butter, too. After you eat this creamy s'more, you'll never go back to the original.

8. Remove Ants from the Campsite Kitchen

Ants, mosquitos and insects are just a part of the camping experience. But, if there's an excessive amount of ants near your food, it becomes a problem. Make a mix of peanut butter, baking soda, and borax. Pour it on the ground where the ants are, and sweep the area after a few minutes. Wipe down the spot with a wet cloth to get rid of the smell.

More: How to Organize Your Camping Kitchen

9. Lube a Squeaky Chair

If one of your camping chairs—or other pieces of camping equipment—is getting a little rickety, apply peanut butter to the hinge. The effect is similar to WD40 or any other lubricant. Wipe it down after with soap and water to keep the peanut butter smell at bay.

10. Make a Bird Feeder

Find a large pinecone, and stuff it with peanut butter and cornmeal. Hang it in a nearby tree and watch the birds come grab a snack. This is a fun arts and crafts project to do with your little ones.

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