Repurposing Ideas: 5 New Uses For Cornstarch

Cornstarch is useful for more than just a thickening agent in the kitchen. This powder has been used by people for a variety of household tasks since Thomas Kingsford invented it in a Jersey City wheat starch factory back in 1840. Here are some unconventional uses for corn starch.

Dry Shampoo For Your Pets. When Dudley or Trixie is starting to get a little stinky, reach for the corn starch. Give your pet a light dusting, then wipe off with a dry washcloth or brush out. The cornstarch helps absorb oils and odors that are making your pet less than fresh.

Finger Paint. DIYLife has a set of simple instructions on how you can make fingerpaint for your kids, using cornstarch, water and food coloring. This is an inexpensive way to make hours of fun for young ones during their summer vacation.

Remove Grease From Wallpaper. Did someone get a greasy stain on your wallpaper? Not a problem with cornstarch. Add two tablespoons of cornstarch to two tablespoons of water so it makes a pasty consistency. Rub this over the spot, and it will extract the grease from stain. Just try this on a hidden part of your wallpaper to make sure it doesn't cause any problems.

Window Cleaner. You can make an awesome window cleaner with just cornstarch and water. Add a quarter cup of cornstarch to two quarts of water. Make sure you keep the solution well mixed and it makes a mildly abrasive cleaner that gently removes dirt and gunk from your windows. Just make sure to rinse when done.

Rubber Glove Helper. Do you hate wearing rubber gloves? If you hate the tactile sensation of wearing them, dust your hands with cornstarch before putting them on. It helps keep the sweat from your hands from sticking to the gloves.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

For more great uses for everyday items, check out previous installments of "5 Uses For..." in the slideshow below!

Also on HuffPost: