Money-Saving Uses for Cornstarch Outside of the Kitchen

Cornstarch can be used for more than just cooking. You may want to start buying it in bulk after reading about the many ways you can use it around the house.

by Rose Scott

You probably keep cornstarch in your kitchen, but maybe you don’t use it that often. You can save quite a bit by buying it in bulk, but can you really use that much before the use-by date?

Cornstarch has a lot of uses other than for cooking, and some of them can help you save money. Read on for ways frugal folks save money with cornstarch outside the kitchen.

Money-Saving Alternative Uses for Cornstarch

See if any of the following ideas can help you save money around the house.

Skin Care

Cornstarch can be a natural alternative to talcum powder to absorb moisture and prevent chafing. You can also add it to your bathwater for a soothing soak and silky skin.

Antiperspirant

Apply a small amount of cornstarch to your underarms as a natural alternative to commercial antiperspirants. Or mix it with other ingredients like coconut oil and baking soda and then apply.

You might also save money with this easy and inexpensive homemade natural deodorant recipe.

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DIY Dry Shampoo

Use a make-up brush to apply cornstarch as a dry shampoo for light hair. Those with darker hair can mix equal parts cornstarch and cocoa powder. It will absorb excess oil and make hair look less greasy.

Pet Grooming

You can also use cornstarch “dry shampoo” for your pets. Brush it into their fur to help absorb excess oil and dirt.

Grease Stain Remover

Sprinkle cornstarch on clothing and fabric grease stains. Let the cornstarch sit for 20-30 minutes to absorb the grease, and then brush it off before washing.

Here are some other DIY stain remover recipes to try.

Shoe Deodorizer

Sprinkle some cornstarch inside your shoes to help absorb moisture and odor.

Homemade Air Fresheners

You can make a natural air freshener by mixing cornstarch, baking soda and essential oils.

If you need to combat other odors in your home, consider these 13 ways to remove odors naturally and inexpensively or try a few of these homemade air freshener recipes.

Window Cleaner

Mix cornstarch with water and a little vinegar for a streak-free window cleaner.

If you notice ripped window screens as you clean, take these steps for DIY screen repair.

Cleaning Agent

Mix cornstarch with water and a bit of dish soap to create a gentle cleaning paste for stubborn stains on surfaces like countertops or bathtubs.

Polish Silver

Use a cornstarch/water paste to polish silver items gently.

Editor’s note: Always test a small, inconspicuous area before applying cornstarch to a new surface, as it could discolor or damage some surfaces.

Mattress Freshener

Sprinkle cornstarch on your mattress, let it sit for a few hours, then vacuum it up to remove odors and excess moisture. These tips can also help you prolong the life of your mattress.

Insect Repellent and Itch Relief

Mix cornstarch with water and essential oils to create a natural insect repellent. Apply the blend to the skin or spray on surfaces to repel insects.

Combine a little cornstarch with water to form a paste, and apply it to insect bites to relieve itching and irritation.

Skin Soother

A cornstarch paste can also be used to soothe sunburns or rashes, too.

Squeaky Floor Fix

Do your wooden floors make an annoying squeaky sound when you walk across them? Sprinkle cornstarch on them and work it into the seams. It can minimize the squeak.

Art Supplies

Mix cornstarch and water with food coloring to create homemade finger paint or sidewalk chalk. Or make homemade playdough. You just need to mix it with water and food coloring to create a fun and non-toxic dough for children.

Gardening

Dust cornstarch on plants to help deter garden pests and protect against fungal diseases.

How Many Ways Will You Save With Cornstarch?

The next time you see a bulk deal on cornstarch, consider buying it. With these ideas, you should have no problem using it up.

Reviewed April 2024