10 Blow Your Mind Uses For Cornstarch
Nearly every home has it, that yellow box of cornstarch in the back of the pantry, likely with a thin coat of dust across it… Not a lot of people really know what to do with cornstarch.
The kitchen savvy among us might use a spoonful here and there to thicken gravy or pudding, but beyond that, it just sits.
Well there are a lot of reasons to take that box out of your pantry, dust it off if need be, and get ready to see it in action.
Because that cheap little box of cornstarch has some really cool applications around your home.
Following are 18 of my personal favorites. Try them out and you’ll agree, that little yellow box is worth its weight in gold!
Thickening Agent
Thickening agents are substances that are added to liquids or mixtures to increase their viscosity or thickness. They can be used in a variety of applications, including cooking, baking, and food processing.
Cornstarch is one of the most commonly used thickening agents in cooking and baking. When it is added to a liquid, it forms a paste that thickens and stabilizes the mixture. Cornstarch works by absorbing water and swelling, which creates a gel-like consistency that thickens the mixture.
Cornstarch is often used in sauces, soups, and gravies to give them a smoother texture and help them coat the other ingredients more evenly. It can also be used to thicken pie fillings, custards, and puddings.
One important thing to keep in mind when using cornstarch as a thickening agent is that it needs to be cooked in order to activate its thickening properties.
If you add it directly to a cold liquid, it will form clumps and not thicken properly. To use cornstarch as a thickener, it should be mixed with a small amount of cold water or other liquid to form a slurry, and then added to the hot liquid to be thickened.
Stain Remover
Cornstarch can be an effective and natural stain remover for various types of stains. It can be used to remove grease, oil, and even ink stains from clothing, carpets, and upholstery.
To use cornstarch as a stain remover, you should first blot up any excess liquid or residue from the stain with a clean cloth or paper towel. Then, sprinkle a generous amount of cornstarch over the stain and let it sit for several hours or overnight. The cornstarch will absorb the oil or grease and help to lift it from the fabric fibers.
After the cornstarch has had time to sit, brush it off with a clean brush or vacuum it up with a vacuum cleaner. You can then wash the garment or fabric as you normally would.
For ink stains, you can make a paste by mixing equal parts cornstarch and milk, and then apply the paste to the stain. Let it sit for several hours or overnight, and then rinse with cold water and wash as usual.
It’s important to note that cornstarch may not work for all types of stains, and some stains may require a different type of treatment. It’s always a good idea to test a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric before treating the entire stain with cornstarch to ensure that it won’t cause any damage or discoloration.
Dry Shampoo
Dry shampoo is a product that is used to absorb excess oil and grease from hair, without the need for washing it with water. Cornstarch is a common ingredient in many natural and DIY dry shampoo recipes, as it is highly absorbent and can help to soak up oil and dirt from the scalp and hair.
To use cornstarch as a dry shampoo, simply sprinkle a small amount onto the roots of your hair and massage it into your scalp. You can then brush or comb your hair to distribute the cornstarch evenly and remove any excess powder. The cornstarch will absorb the excess oil and leave your hair looking fresher and less greasy.
You can also mix cornstarch with other ingredients to make a DIY dry shampoo that is customized to your hair type and needs. For example, you can mix cornstarch with cocoa powder for darker hair, or add a few drops of essential oils for a pleasant scent.
It’s important to note that while dry shampoo can be a convenient and time-saving solution for greasy hair, it should not be used as a substitute for regular washing with water. Overuse of dry shampoo can lead to build-up on the scalp and hair, which can cause dryness, itching, and irritation.
Face Powder
Face powder is a cosmetic product that is applied to the face to set foundation or concealer, reduce shine, and create a smooth, matte finish. Cornstarch is a common ingredient in many natural and DIY face powder recipes, as it can help to absorb excess oil and give the skin a matte finish.
To make a simple DIY face powder with cornstarch, you can mix together equal parts cornstarch and cocoa powder, and then adjust the color with a few drops of powdered pigment or mineral makeup until you get the desired shade.
You can then apply the powder to your face with a fluffy brush, focusing on areas that tend to get oily.
Cornstarch is generally safe for use on the skin, but it’s always a good idea to test a small patch of skin first to make sure you don’t have any allergic reactions. Additionally, cornstarch can be a little messy to work with, so be sure to apply it in a well-ventilated area and use a clean brush to avoid contaminating the powder.
If you prefer to use a commercial face powder, be sure to read the ingredients carefully to ensure that it doesn’t contain any potential irritants or allergens. Look for a product that is labeled “non-comedogenic,” which means that it won’t clog pores, and choose a shade that matches your skin tone for a natural-looking finish.
Playdough
Playdough is a fun and popular children’s toy that can be shaped and molded into a variety of different shapes and objects. Cornstarch is one of the key ingredients in many homemade playdough recipes, as it helps to give the playdough its smooth, soft texture.
To make playdough with cornstarch, you will need the following ingredients:
1 cup of cornstarch
1 cup of baking soda
1/2 cup of water
Food coloring (optional)
To make the playdough, combine the cornstarch and baking soda in a medium saucepan and mix well. Add the water and stir until the mixture is smooth. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and forms a dough.
Remove the dough from the heat and let it cool until it’s safe to handle. Divide the dough into smaller portions, and add a few drops of food coloring to each portion if desired. Knead the dough until the food coloring is evenly distributed and the dough is smooth and pliable.
Cornstarch playdough is safe and non-toxic, making it a great option for young children. However, it’s important to note that it can dry out quickly if left exposed to air, so be sure to store it in an airtight container when not in use. If the playdough becomes too dry or crumbly, you can add a few drops of water and knead it until it’s smooth again.
Foot Powder
Foot powder is a product that is used to help absorb moisture and reduce odor in the feet. Cornstarch is a common ingredient in many natural and DIY foot powder recipes, as it can help to absorb excess moisture and keep the feet feeling dry and fresh.
To make a simple DIY foot powder with cornstarch, you can mix together equal parts cornstarch and baking soda in a bowl. You can then add a few drops of essential oil, such as tea tree oil or lavender oil, for a pleasant scent and additional anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties.
To use the foot powder, simply sprinkle a small amount onto your feet and massage it in, focusing on areas that tend to sweat or get smelly, such as the soles and between the toes. The cornstarch and baking soda will absorb excess moisture and help to reduce odor, while the essential oils will provide a fresh scent and help to prevent bacterial and fungal growth.
It’s important to note that foot powder should not be used as a substitute for regular foot hygiene, such as washing your feet daily and wearing clean socks and shoes. Additionally, if you have any underlying foot conditions or concerns, such as athlete’s foot or excessive sweating, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Natural Deodorant
Another interesting use for cornstarch is as a natural deodorant. Cornstarch can help absorb moisture and reduce odor, making it a great alternative to commercial deodorants that may contain harsh chemicals or irritants.
To use cornstarch as a natural deodorant, simply apply a small amount to clean, dry underarms, either on its own or mixed with a few drops of essential oil for a pleasant scent. The cornstarch will help absorb sweat and reduce odor throughout the day, and can be reapplied as needed.
It’s important to note that cornstarch may not work for everyone as a deodorant, and it may not provide as strong or long-lasting protection as commercial deodorants. However, it can be a great option for those looking for a natural, non-toxic alternative to traditional deodorants.
Window Cleaner
Cornstarch can be used as a natural and effective ingredient in a DIY window cleaner. When mixed with vinegar, cornstarch can help remove dirt, grime, and streaks from windows, leaving them clean and shiny.
To make a simple DIY window cleaner with cornstarch, you will need the following ingredients:
1/4 cup white vinegar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 cups warm water
Instructions:
In a spray bottle, mix the white vinegar and cornstarch until the cornstarch dissolves.
Add warm water to the spray bottle and shake well to combine.
Spray the mixture onto your windows and wipe with a clean, lint-free cloth or paper towel.
The cornstarch helps to break down and remove dirt and grime, while the vinegar acts as a natural disinfectant and helps to cut through grease and streaks. The warm water helps to activate the cornstarch and allows the mixture to spread evenly on the surface of the window.
It’s important to note that this DIY window cleaner should not be used on tinted or coated windows, as it may cause damage. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to test any new cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of your windows before using it on a larger surface to ensure it does not cause any damage or discoloration.
Anti-Chafing Agent
Cornstarch can be used as an anti-chafing agent, especially in areas of the body where skin rubs against skin, such as the thighs or underarms. Chafing can be uncomfortable and even painful, but applying cornstarch can help reduce friction and prevent chafing.
To use cornstarch as an anti-chafing agent, simply apply a small amount to the affected area, such as the inner thighs, before dressing. The cornstarch will help absorb moisture and reduce friction, preventing chafing and discomfort throughout the day.
It’s important to note that cornstarch may not be the best option for everyone as an anti-chafing agent. Some people may be sensitive to cornstarch, and it may not provide as much protection as commercial anti-chafing products. Additionally, if you have an existing chafing rash, it’s important to seek medical advice and treatment before applying any anti-chafing products, as they may exacerbate the condition.
Silver Polish
Cornstarch can be used as an ingredient in a homemade silver polish to remove tarnish and restore shine to silverware, jewelry, and other silver items.
To make a simple DIY silver polish with cornstarch, you will need the following ingredients:
1/2 cup cornstarch
1/4 cup water
1/4 cup white vinegar
Instructions:
In a small bowl, mix together the cornstarch and water until a paste forms.
Add the white vinegar to the paste and stir well to combine.
Apply the mixture to the tarnished silver with a soft cloth or sponge, rubbing gently to remove the tarnish.
Rinse the silver with warm water and dry with a clean, soft cloth.
The cornstarch helps to gently scrub away the tarnish, while the vinegar acts as a natural disinfectant and helps to dissolve any remaining grime or buildup. This DIY silver polish can be a great alternative to commercial silver polishes that may contain harsh chemicals or abrasives that can damage silver items over time.
It’s important to note that this DIY silver polish should not be used on silver-plated items or antiques, as it may cause damage.
Additionally, it’s always a good idea to test any new cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of your silver items before using it on a larger surface to ensure it does not cause any damage or discoloration.
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