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Since its domestication in the South American Andes around 8,000 years ago, the humble potato has transformed the world. Beyond its role as a staple in global cuisines, this versatile tuber also excels in numerous non-culinary roles. Discover how raw potatoes can be utilized for a variety of household purposes.
Eliminating fabric stains
From clothing to furniture and carpets, raw potatoes offer two effective methods for tackling tough stains. One approach involves cutting a potato in half and rubbing the cut side onto the stain, allowing its natural juices and starches to break down the discoloration.
Another method involves grating a few raw potatoes into a bowl of warm water and letting it sit until the water turns cloudy white. After removing the grated potato, squeeze out the remaining water back into the bowl and apply the potato water to the stain. (Bonus: The grated potato can now be used to prepare latkes.)
Removing a broken light bulb from its socket
When the top portion of a light bulb breaks while unscrewing it, a raw potato can be a lifesaver. Start by unplugging the lamp or cutting power to the fixture. Next, cut a thick slice from one end of a raw potato, press the cut side firmly into the broken bulb, and twist gently. This technique should help extract the remaining bulb from the socket. Dispose of the potato and broken bulb together.
Eliminating rust
Potatoes contain oxalic acid, a compound effective in dissolving rust on metals like iron. To use this method, cut a raw potato in half, dip the cut side into baking soda (or dish soap), and rub it onto rusty areas, such as those on a cast iron skillet.
While it might require some effort and patience, continue working on the rust until it’s fully removed, then rinse and dry the metal thoroughly. If the potato slice loses its effectiveness, simply cut a fresh piece, dip it in baking soda, and resume the process.
This technique isn’t limited to cast iron; it’s also effective for removing rust from kitchen utensils, tools, scissors, and various household metal items.
Additional household applications for raw potatoes
Beyond the uses mentioned earlier, raw potatoes can also serve the following purposes:
Restore tarnished silver by soaking it in starchy water leftover from boiling potatoes.
Use a raw potato slice to remove stains from your hands caused by foods like beets or berries.
Place a raw potato slice over your eyes (similar to cucumber slices) and relax for a few minutes to reduce under-eye puffiness.
Polish eyeglass lenses with a raw potato slice to clean them and prevent fogging, especially when wearing a mask or outdoors.
After cleaning up broken glass, use a halved raw potato to pick up tiny shards by pressing the cut side onto the affected area while wearing gloves.
If this has sparked a potato craving (or is it just me?), you’ll be pleased to know that potatoes are remarkably versatile in cooking. For inspiration, check out these 10 innovative potato recipes from Mytour’s food editor, Claire Lower.
