Most households have cornstarch powder stashed somewhere in their pantries. However, you just see it when you clean your home, thinking if you should throw it or not.
Some of us think that cornstarch has limited use. Usually, we only need it if we want to thicken sauces or gravies, but did you know that cornstarch can do so much more?
In fact, there are plenty of uses for cornstarch that have nothing to do with sauces. If you’re curious, check out these 16 amazing cornstarch uses.
Use Cornstarch Powder to Soothe Irritated Skin
Got a bad case of sunburn or another type of skin irritation? Cornstarch for rash is your to-go remedy.
Mix three tablespoons of cornstarch with some cold water until a paste is formed. Apply the mixture to your skin with a cotton ball and let dry before you rinse with warm water.
DIY Soap Scum Remover
Sick of those stubborn soap scum stains? They can be hard to remove too and can be annoying.
This DIY soap scum remover works great and is inexpensive to make. Just mix some vinegar, cornstarch, and dish soap. Get the full recipe here.
Glass Cleaner
Does cornstarch expire? Good news! It doesn’t, but if you have a box stashed for a couple of months or a year and you’re not comfortable using it for food, then there’s another way.
Use cornstarch to make yourself a streak-free glass cleaner. Just mix some with vinegar and rubbing alcohol. Get the details on this recipe here.
Soak Up Oil
Don’t let an oil spill ruin that new shirt or tablecloth. There’s still a way to fix it.
Just sprinkle a generous layer of cornstarch over the stain. Keep it there for an hour so the cornstarch can soak up the oil. Wash as usual.
DIY Dry Shampoo
Using cornstarch for hair isn’t exactly a familiar way to cleanse out the scalp. However, it does work very well.
So why spend money on dry shampoo when you can make your own? You can make one for light or dark hair. Get the recipe here.
Detangle a Knot
Got a knot you can’t untangle? Get your cornstarch and sprinkle some over the knot and rub it in a little bit.
This should provide some lubrication to help you untangle the knot.
DIY Face and Fingerpaint
This is an easy recipe that could be a new hobby for you and your kids. Just boil some cornstarch and water together.
Drop in some food coloring and let cool before you use finger paint. If you want to use this as face paint just mix cornstarch, vegetable shortening, and some food coloring.
Matte Nail Polish
Make your own matte nail polish with cornstarch. Mix some cornstarch into your nail polish and use it to paint your nails right away.
It’s best to pour the paint onto a paper plate first then mix with cornstarch. Don’t worry about the brand of cornstarch that you use. It will work the same.
Clean Playing Cards
Are your playing cards sticking together? Get your cornstarch and a zip lock bag.
Then shake them in a bag with some cornstarch. It will get rid of the dirt and grease after you wipe them down.
Soothe a Bug Bite
Got an itchy bug bite? Go to your pantry and mix three tablespoons of cornstarch with cold water to perform a paste. Apply it to the area with a cotton ball. You’ll immediately feel relieved.
Revive Old Books
Do your old books have a musty smell? Sprinkle the old pages with organic cornstarch. This will get rid of the dampness and gross smell.
Starch Spray
Want to keep your shirts crisp without taking them to the dry cleaner? Just make your own starch spray.
It’s way cheaper and works the same as the commercially-bought starch spray. Check out the recipe here.
Blush and Bronzer
Don’t spend money on expensive beauty products. Here is a secret.
Just mix cornstarch with hibiscus powder or cinnamon instead to make a DIY blush or bronzer. A little powder with cornstarch can go a long way. Get the recipe here.
Improve Grip
Need a better grip? Give the handles of your sports equipment a dusting with cornstarch. Always keep some in your gym bag and it will help you to better grasp it.
Get Rid of Scorch Marks
Did you have a little accident with the iron? Don’t panic just yet. If you have cornstarch available, you can remove scorch marks using it.
Wet the markings with water and cover them with cornstarch. Let it dry and then brush everything away.
Deodorize Shoes
Are your shoes stinky? Don’t keep it as your dark secret. Instead, use cornstarch formula and sprinkle some on each smelly show. It will absorb any odors.
Takeaway
Cornstarch powder shouldn’t just be left all alone in your pantry. You can use it with so many things, and soon, you will find yourself stocking more cornstarch in your home.