Skip to Content

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

7 Uses for Ketchup That May Surprise You

This beloved condiment works just as well outside the kitchen.

By Brian Clark Howard
this image is not available
Media Platforms Design Team

If you squirrel away unused packets of ketchup in desks and cabinets after a quick meal on-the-go (or cram half-empty bottles in the back of the fridge), start using the condiment for more than flavor.

1

Shine your copper pots.

this image is not available
Media Platforms Design Team

Whether you have copper-bottomed cooking pans, architectural detailing, or shiny knick-knacks, trade the costly metal polish pastes, and make use of those old ketchup packets stashed away in your kitchen drawers.

Here's a simple recipe from Michael de Jong, author of the Clean series of simple living books: Massage ketchup over the copper and watch it dissolve the tarnish away (thanks to the acid). In the event that you have stubborn spots, add a pinch of table salt while you polish.

2

Get those auto parts gleaming.

this image is not available
Media Platforms Design Team

According to The Cymbal Book by Hugo Pinksterboer, some folks have seen decent results getting their cars to shine with ketchup. The book notes that the condiment does a good job cutting tarnish, but not so well in removing dirt. You may need a multi-step process, with some soap and water as well.

3

Fight skunk odors.

this image is not available
Media Platforms Design Team

If you live in a rural or even suburban area, chances are you (or your dog) have run into a skunk. Although some experts caution that this technique may not actually work (beyond masking the odor), many people still swear by tomato juice as a way to remove potent skunk smell. Michael de Jong points out plain ketchup may work if you don't have tomato juice on hand.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
4

Repair chlorine-damaged hair.

this image is not available
Media Platforms Design Team

According to de Jong, ketchup can also be used to correct hair highlights gone green from chlorinated swimming pools. Smoosh in the ketchup, let it set for about 20 minutes, and then wash it out thoroughly.

5

Make fake blood for the kids.

this image is not available
Media Platforms Design Team

As any elementary school jokester and Halloween lover knows, ketchup makes great (albeit messy) fake blood. Of course, we recommend you exercise a lot of caution with this one since it's not much fun if you get stuck laundering away tough stains afterwards.

6

Soothe wounds.

this image is not available
Media Platforms Design Team

Freeze leftover condiment packets for an easy first-aid trick — the flexible icepacks are perfect for kids' bumps and scrapes.

See more at Organizing Homelife »

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
7

Repurpose empty bottles.

this image is not available
Media Platforms Design Team

Just as ketchup packets can pile up, so can used ketchup bottles. Make them storage containers for glitter, beads, or other craft items. Some people also use them as dispensers for pancake mix — just be sure to wash them thoroughly first.

See more at Cupcakes and Cashmere »

This story originally appeared on "The Daily Green."

Watch Next
 
preview for Featured Videos From Good Housekeeping US
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

Cleaning

best power washers

Best Pressure Washers

best air fresheners

The Best Air Fresheners

8 best screen cleaners, according to cleaning experts

The Best Screen Cleaners

for me hiring a housecleaner is self care

How Hiring a House Cleaner Saved My Mental Health

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Logo
tiktok
youtube
facebook
instagram
pinterest
Hearst Lifestyle and Design Group - A Part of Hearst Digital Media

A Part of Hearst Digital Media

Good Housekeeping participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites.

©2024 Hearst Magazine Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Privacy NoticeCA Notice at CollectionYour CA Privacy Rights/Shine the LightDAA Industry Opt OutTerms of UseSite Map