8 Unexpected Household Uses For Ketchup Everyone Should Know

Ketchup may seem like a simple condiment, but its mix of acidity, sugar, and tomato makes it surprisingly useful around the house. Of course it's essential for burgers and fries, but ketchup can also help clean, polish, and refresh everyday items.

With a few easy tricks, this pantry staple can become a helpful tool you never expected.

Polish silverware

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Silver loses its shine over time, especially when stored for long periods. A quick rub of ketchup can help restore its brightness.

Ketchup loosens dullness and light discoloration. After rinsing and drying, your utensils or serving pieces will look noticeably cleaner and more polished.

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Refresh car headlights

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Cloudy or hazy headlights can reduce visibility. Rubbing ketchup on the surface will help cut through residue and mild oxidation.

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After a good rinse and dry, the headlights will look clearer and brighter. It is a simple, budget-friendly way to keep your car looking its best.

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Clean stainless steel

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Smudges and fingerprints make stainless steel look worn. A small amount of ketchup can help lift residue and restore its shine.

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Apply it to the surface, wipe with a soft cloth, and rinse thoroughly. The results will be a cleaner look without the use of harsh chemicals.

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Remove rust

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Small rust spots on tools or household items can often be treated with ketchup. The vinegar and tomato help break down the rust, making it easier to wipe clean.

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This hack is best for light rust and works well as a quick fix, but likely won't restore items with large amounts of rust.

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Treat burnt-on food residue

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A stubborn layer of burnt food on a pan can be softened by spreading ketchup over the surface.

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Leaving it to sit helps loosen the residue, making scrubbing easier. It's a small trick that saves time and reduces the need for heavy soaking.

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It's surprisingly effective

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Ketchup might not seem like a cleaning essential, but its natural ingredients make it surprisingly effective. From polishing metals to lifting residue, it offers simple solutions for small household tasks.

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This everyday condiment is a useful tool that will save money and reduce clutter in your cleaning routine.