From polishing silver to removing grease stains, cornstarch has many household cleaning uses.
Its also absorbent, so it easily soaks up moisture, dirt, oil, and smells.
Its more affordable than commercially-made cleaners, too.
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These are a few of our favorite ways to use cornstarch to clean common household items.
Clean Glass and Windows
Cornstarch makes a great naturalglass cleaner.
Mix a tablespoon each of cornstarch and vinegar with 2 cups of water and stir until dissolved.
Pour into a spray bottle and use as you would a commercial window and glass cleaner.
Remove Grease Stains From Clothing
Pour a scoop of cornstarch directly ongrease-stained clothingand let it sit for 12 hours.
The cornstarch will pull the grease straight out of the fabric.
Polish Silver
Cornstarch is one of the best ways to naturallypolish silver, and it’s easy to do.
Mix a half cup of cornstarch with enough water to form a paste.
Apply the paste to silver jewelry or tableware and rub with a soft cloth until the tarnish is gone.
The cornstarch acts as a gentler abrasive, physically removing the tarnish without harming the silver.
Dry and Deodorize Stinky Shoes
Cornstarch can absorb odors and moisture fromfoul-smelling footwear.
Sprinkle cornstarch inside boots and shoes after you take them off.
Let them sit overnight, then shake out the cornstarch the next morning.
The cornstarch absorbs the smells and moisture, leaving shoes fresh and dry.
you could also use your vacuum to suck the cornstarch out of your shoes before wearing them again.
Remove Stains and Smells from Carpet
For overall freshening and cleaning, sprinkle cornstarch on arug or carpet.
Let it sit for about 20 minutes, then vacuum it up.
The cornstarch will absorb odors and dirt, which are then removed by the vacuum.
Cornstarch is also great at pulling oily spots out of rugs and carpets.
For spot cleaning, sprinkle it on the stain or problem area.
Let it sit for 30 minutes, then vacuum it up.
Mix 1 part water with 2 parts cornstarch to make a loose paste.
Clean Stuffed Animals
If you could’t throw a smelly stuffed animal in the wash, use cornstarch instead.
Sprinkle the toy liberally with cornstarch, then gently rub or brush it to distribute it all over.
The cornstarch will absorb dirt, oils, and odors that have been transferred to the toy.