Cornstarch is often underestimated as a household cleaning agent, but if used correctly, it can be used to remove the toughest of stains. Its fine particles can absorb oils, grease, moisture, and odors, making it an effective tool for tackling stains and freshening up various surfaces
Cornstarch works with the nature of the absorbency and texture of starch. It lifts away dirt, grease, and oils but is gentle enough for delicate surfaces, our cleaning experts reveal, sharing the seven ways you can clean with it around your home.
Unlike harsher cleaners, cornstarch as well as other foods you can clean your home with does not damage or stain materials and is also kinder to the planet.
7 things you can clean around the house with cornstarch
Corn starch is a versatile and often underappreciated tool in household cleaning. Here are seven household items that you can effectively clean with cornstarch:
1. Shoes
100% Cornstarch, available at Amazon, is great at cleaning and polishing leather shoes without damaging the material. It does it by absorbing the oils from the leather without leaving a residue, which helps to restore the natural shine in the material.
‘To clean and restore your shoes, just sprinkle cornstarch directly onto any oily or greasy spots,’ says professional cleaner and organizer Jill Koch of Jill Comes Clean. ‘Let it sit there for about 20 minutes to really soak up some of that oil. Finally, brush off the remaining cornstarch with a soft brush, such as the soft scrubbing brush from Walmart and buff with a clean cloth.
Cornstarch can also help if your shoes feel damp or have a smell, helping to keep your clean entryway smelling fresh. Simply sprinkle a bit of cornstarch inside your shoes and leave it overnight. The cornstarch will absorb moisture and eliminate odors, leaving your shoes dry and fresh. This trick works well for sports shoes that tend to build up sweat and moisture over time.
2. Greasy kitchen cabinets
With it being one of the most used rooms in the home, it's important that you know how to clean kitchen cabinets, especially near the stove where they are prone to collecting grease. When applied correctly, cornstarch works effectively to break down the grime and dirt like a dream.
To start, make a paste of one part cornstarch and one part water to form a paste. Then using a soft cloth such as the Mr.Siga microfiber cloth multipack from Walmart, apply the paste to the greasy areas. Let the paste sit for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the cornstarch to break down the oils. This method works because the cornstarch is clings to grease particles, absorbing them well and making it easier to lift off surfaces with a soft cloth.
3. Stainless steel and flatware
The best way to polish flatware, especially stainless steel, is by sprinkling a little cornstarch onto a damp cloth. Gently rub the mixture onto the stainless steel surface, using circular motions and then buff with a dry microfiber cloth.
Corn starch soaks up the water and grime, with a slight abrasiveness that lifts streaks off the flatware, leaving it shining and giving it a streak-free finish. This is also effective on stainless steel finishes on counters and furniture.
4. Carpet
According to Will Cotter, COO of FreshSpace Cleaning, cornstarch can also be used to remove wax from when cleaning a carpet. Begin by scraping off as much wax as possible using a dull knife. Once you have lifted as much of the wax as possible, spread some cornstarch over the residue to soak up any remaining oils.
‘Let the powder for 15-20 minutes to absorb the oil, and then vacuum it up,’ says Will. ‘The fine powder effectively lifts the wax out of the fibers without leaving a residue, restoring the fibers of the carpet.’
5. Windows and mirrors
As well as mirrors, cornstarch can also be used to clean windows without streaks. Mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with a quarter cup of vinegar and two cups of warm water. Spray this solution onto the glass and wipe it with a lint-free cloth from Amazon.
The fine texture of cornstarch helps in polishing the glass without scratching it, making it a go-to solution.
Vinegar is a brilliant cleaning and sanitizing liquid fit for purpose across the home. This one is Amazon's Choice, meaning it is bought by many, rarely returned, and usually available.
6. Upholstered furniture and items
Removing grease stains from clothes or furniture can be quite a challenge, but using cornstarch can simplify the task. Sprinkle it directly onto the stain, let it sit for an hour, and then brush it off before washing as usual. The starch absorbs the grease, making it easier to remove during cleaning and washing.
Fabrics such as lampshades act as dust magnets, and according to Karina Toner, operations manager at Spekless Cleaning, cornstarch can clean them without damaging the delicate material. The fine particles of cornstarch lift dirt and oils from fabric without wetting it, making it perfect for cleaning upholstery. Start by dusting the whole lamp shade with cornstarch and letting it sit for around 10 minutes, this will help soak up any oils and dust. Finally, sweep the powder off with a soft brush for great results.
7. Car interiors
Greasy car interiors, particularly on the fabric seats and consoles, are common due to their constant usage and likelihood of spilled food and drink. Cornstarch is great to use in these scenarios as it works straight away and is also harmless for your skin.
First, spread some cornstarch over greasy areas, particularly on the fabric seats or armrests. Allow the cornstarch to sit for 15-20 minutes to let the grease get absorbed. Next sweep or vacuum off the powder with a high-powered vacuum such as the Humdinger™ lightweight handheld vacuum from Dyson.
FAQs
Is cornstarch OK to use on skin?
In short, yes cornstarch is safe to be in contact with skin. Cornstarch is actually rich in vitamins including A, B1, B2 and C, as well as minerals calcium, iron and zinc so it's unlikely to lead to irritation whilst you're cleaning.
If you are struggling to remove tough, stubborn stains, try adding cornstarch when cleaning with vinegar. Adding one tablespoon of cornstarch to a cup of vinegar and heating until warm can make a brilliantly effective natural cleaner.
Once warm, you can then add your solution to a spray bottle from Amazon, arming yourself with an enhanced cleaning solution for difficult stains.
