18 Uses For Cornstarch That Will Save You Money

POPSUGAR Photography | Sarah Lipoff
POPSUGAR Photography | Sarah Lipoff

Cornstarch is one of those things you probably have hiding in the back of your pantry, but you aren't really sure what to use it for. But this box of happiness that costs around one dollar actually has so many smart uses around the house. And all of these solutions save you time and money, making your busy days so much easier. So dig out that box of cornstarch and get busy!

  1. Streak-free windows: Cornstarch is a natural abrasive and also superfine, so adding a tablespoon to the bottle of your favorite window cleaner makes cleaning easier and leaves windows streak-free.
  2. Naturally polish silver: Simply make a slurry of cornstarch and water and use for polishing your silver. Your holiday table will thank you.
POPSUGAR Photography | Sarah Lipoff
  1. Clean grease stains: Pour cornstarch over grease stains and let set for 20 minutes. The superfine cornstarch absorbs the grease while cleaning the carpet. Vacuum away for fresh carpet.
  2. Soothe sunburns: Make a paste of cornstarch and water and smooth over a sunburn. While it dries, it soothes sore skin. This also works for bug bites and beestings!
  3. Smell buster: Because cornstarch is superabsorbent, it's perfect for sucking up bad smells. Sprinkle it in smelly shoes and let set overnight. Shake out shoes before wearing.
  4. Homemade spray starch: Instead of spending money on store-brand spray starch, DIY your own for crisp shirts.

  1. Fix leather stains: Dribble salad dressing on your favorite leather jacket? Sprinkle cornstarch over grease stains, and let set overnight. Gently rub off with a damp paper towel for refreshed leather.
  2. DIY body powder: Stop buying body powder at the store and make your own that you can personalize with your favorite essential oils. Mix one cup cornstarch with a few drops of essential oil, and then shake.
  3. Chafing help: If you tend to chafe, rub a dust of cornstarch on problem areas before putting on clothes.
  4. Clean wood furniture: Love your wood furniture but not the remaining buildup from cleaners? To remove, mix equal parts cornstarch and water to buff away marks.
  5. Fix musty books: Get rid of musty smells in old books with a sprinkle of cornstarch. You'll love how fresh they'll smell!
POPSUGAR Photography | Sarah Lipoff
  1. DIY dry shampoo: Hair feeling a bit oily but no time for a shower? Use cornstarch as a dry shampoo by dusting it along the crown of your hair and along the base of your neck. Gently work through the hair then brush out. And it's safe to use on your pet, too!
  2. Fix floor squeaks: Sprinkle a bit of cornstarch over squeaky floors then sweep. The cornstarch works itself into nooks and cracks, stopping the noise.
  3. Calm diaper rash: Soothe diaper rash by soaking your baby's bum in a bath with added cornstarch. The superfine soother calms irritation and helps heal skin.
  4. Thicken sauces: Expertly thicken sauces, soups, and stews with these directions for cooking with cornstarch. Extra bonus? It's gluten free.
  5. Fluff eggs: It might surprise you, but adding a sprinkle of cornstarch to eggs before whipping makes them superfluffy. Try it.
  6. Natural deodorant: Wipe underarms with rubbing alcohol, then dust with cornstarch. The rubbing alcohol gets rid of smells, and the cornstarch helps keep your underarms dry by absorbing moisture.
  7. Gluten-free finger paint: Boil together water and cornstarch for easy DIY finger paint that's also gluten free!
POPSUGAR Photography | Sarah Lipoff