Quick definitions (stingy)
(OneLook.com reference)

• adjective: selfishly unwilling to share with others
• adjective: not generous (“She practices economy without being stingy”)

The spray can has got to be one of our greatest inventions. It’s use makes the application of so many products possible. But spray cans can also be a pain in the rear. They can spray erratically, spray too little or not spray at all. After being around for over 80 years, you’d think the simple spray can would be perfected by now. Go figure.

Here are a few workarounds for those spray cans that won’t give up the goods.

While none of these are sure to work in every stingy-can situation (like with some paint spray cans), you may be surprised to find which ones will work for you.

1. Always shake the can. Simple enough, huh? Really, though, a spray can that’s been sitting idle for some time can have contents that need to be remixed a bit before attempting to use the spray.

2. Turn it upside-down. If you want to get out that last iota of liquid from your can, do Step 1 above, then turn the can upside-down and give a couple of solid sprays.

3. Toss the cap. If you use a certain product brand that has a history of denying you that last drop of spray, you can solve the problem before it starts (next time). On your next purchase, remove the cap from the can and toss it. Really, the only purpose of the cap is to protect the sprayer from being accidentally activated. Some caps actually press down on the very top of the sprayer and eventually misalign the sprayer mechanism. Removing the cap removes this issue.

Personally, there are some caps I’d rather keep. For instance, I save my spray antiperspirant cap for travel purposes. Who wants a “Secret” travel bag? I simply keep the cap alongside, but not on, the spray can and replace it for packing. On the other hand, I sometimes use cooking sprays. Those cans are notorious for malfunctioning. In my home, cooking sprays are always seen without their caps.

4. Remove the cap and rinse. Occasionally a cap (and sprayer mechanism) can get clogged up. Rinse both with warm/hot water and gently dry with a towel. You may optionally soak them in water with a touch of basic white household vinegar (loosens grime) and/or a pinch of baking soda (softens).

Soaking the sprayer mechanism can be a bit tricky. If you saved the cap, use it as both a well and a stand. Pour in enough water or water solution to cover the sprayer, then set the spray can upside-down inside the cap.

Happy spraying!