25 Reasons You Need More Cornstarch In Your Life (#15 Is The Best!)

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A simple staple found in almost every kitchen in America, cornstarch comes from the endosperm of corn kernels. You might think that the only thing cornstarch is good for involves culinary uses, but it actually has dozens of other uses.

Cornstarch is completely natural and highly absorbent, which makes it perfect for a number of uses. It is also hypoallergenic and non-toxic, so you can feel safe using it on pets or babies.

Want to know what else that box of cornstarch can do around your home? Keep reading!

1. Remove Mildew From Books

Unfortunately, all it takes is a little water for mildew to start eating away at our beloved books. You can stop this damage by sprinkling some cornstarch on the affected pages, allow it to absorb the moisture for several hours, and then brush off the excess with a large makeup brush.

2. Non-Toxic Face Paint For Kids

All kids love face painting, but if you are worried about all the chemicals in most face paints, you should be! You can make your own natural paint, however, with cornstarch. Simply mix one cup of cornstarch in a large bowl with two tablespoons of vegetable oil. Add just a few teaspoons of water until you get a thin, paste-like texture. If it should get too thin, don’t worry — just add another tablespoon of cornstarch. Divide this paste between several small bowls and add a few drops of food coloring to each one. This ‘paint’ will wash off easily and is completely safe.

3. Make Your Own Silly Putty

Youngsters love playing with Silly Putty. The next rainy day that finds your kids stuck inside, try this fun little project. Mix one cup of cornstarch in a bowl with half a cup of water so that you have a paste. While stirring this mixture, add just enough Elmer’s glue to this until you get a consistency like Silly Putty. Divide the mixture into smaller portions, and add food coloring if you like to each batch. Knead well to distribute the color. Store it in plastic containers with tight-fitting lids or plastic bags for later use.

4. Unstick Playing Cards

Those late night poker games or bridge games sometimes lead to cards getting soda, beer, or food on them, making them stick together. Don’t buy new cards: Simply put the cards in a paper bag and add a couple tablespoons of cornstarch. Shake well, then remove the cards and wipe them off with a dry microfiber cloth. This also works with cards from children’s board games or kids’ baseball, basketball, or other type of collectable cards.

5. Stop Chafing

Stiff clothing or hard seams rubbing against the body can cause painful chafing of the skin. You can prevent friction by filling an old talcum powder dispenser with cornstarch and sprinkling it over the affected areas. You can even put a few lavender flowers or rose petals inside the container to make it smell nice.

6. Oil Spots On Leather

Oily spots on leather shoes, boots, purses, car seats, or sofas can really spoil their beautiful look. You might think that the item is ruined, but try this trick first. Apply a liberal covering of cornstarch to the affected area. Allow to sit overnight. In the morning, brush off with a soft brush or a microfiber cloth. If the spot has diminished, but you can still see it, repeat. This works almost every time and does not harm the leather at all.

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