Most people think of cornstarch as the thing you grab for gravy, soup, or pie filling. Then you start hearing people use it for greasy stains, squeaky floors, musty smells, or cleaning windows, and it sounds completely made up. Oddly enough, a lot of those tricks actually work.
That plain little box sitting in the pantry turns out to be surprisingly useful around the house. It can soak up oil, freshen things up, help with sticky messes, and even handle a few cleaning jobs people usually buy separate products for.
Some of these uses seem random the first time you hear them, but once you try them, they start making a lot more sense. Here are a few practical ways people are putting cornstarch to work outside the kitchen.
1. Soothe Skin
A simple
2. Homemade Deodorant
Cornstarch can serve as a natural deodorant due to its moisture-absorbing properties. Combine melted coconut oil with
3. Deter Fleas and Ticks
Cornstarch can be used to deter fleas and ticks from pets. Dust pet bedding and toys with
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4. Natural Dry Shampoo
Cornstarch makes an excellent dry shampoo. Apply it lightly to the roots of your hair with a makeup brush, then brush through to absorb oil and refresh your hair.
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5. Enhanced Grip
Sprinkle a little
6. Athlete’s Foot Prevention
Adding a little cornstarch to your socks or directly inside your shoes can significantly reduce moisture and breakouts of athlete’s foot. Just a light sprinkling of cornstarch on your socks before putting them on can make a big difference, keeping your feet cool and comfortable.
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7. Dry Bath for Pets
Cornstarch is a convenient and gentle alternative for bathing pets when water is impractical or unnecessary. Use your hands or a brush to gently work the
After a few minutes, thoroughly brush out the
8. Polishing Silverware
Mix
9. Natural Fabric Starch
For those who prefer crisp lines and smooth fabrics, cornstarch is an excellent natural fabric starch that keeps materials crisp and neat-looking. Combine 1–2 tablespoons of cornstarch with two cups of water in a spray bottle, shake well, and lightly spray the mixture onto your clothes before ironing. It is particularly effective for shirts, table linens, and other fabrics that require a neat, tidy appearance.
10. Degrease Kitchen Surfaces
Use a cornstarch and water paste to remove greasy residues from kitchen walls and surfaces without harsh chemicals.
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11. Carpet Freshener
To freshen carpets, sprinkle a liberal amount of
As the cornstarch rests, it draws out dirt and odors from the carpet fibers. It’s an excellent alternative to chemical-laden carpet fresheners in homes with children and pets.
12. Cleaning Stuffed Animals
Cornstarch is gentle enough for cleaning and refreshing delicate items such as stuffed animals, plush toys, and delicate fabrics that may not withstand regular washing. Sprinkle a light layer of cornstarch on these items, then let it sit for a few minutes to absorb dust and slight odors. Afterward, use a soft brush or a damp cloth to gently remove the cornstarch, taking care not to saturate the fabric so it dries quickly.
