Buzz
Previously, we've shared fascinating articles on the unusual uses of peanut butter and beer, which were a hit. Today, we present another fun compilation of surprising uses for a product that's often considered ordinary: Coca-Cola. Created by the Coca-Cola Company in 1886, this iconic drink has been enjoyed by generations of people across more than 200 countries (or so the company claims). This list will give you a fresh perspective on how to make the most out of your Coke beyond the usual.
10. Rust Remover
Coca-Cola works wonders as a rust remover. If you have small items that are covered in rust, simply soak them in Coke overnight and scrub them clean the next morning. The ingredients in Coke help dissolve the rust particles, making the cleaning process much simpler. For chrome finishes with rust spots, pour some Coke onto a textured cloth and gently rub in circular motions. Make sure to dispose of the used Coke afterward, as it might be best to avoid ingesting it at that point.
9. Window Cleaning Made Easy
Just like the previous tip, the citric acid in Coke works wonders for cleaning windows. This is particularly useful for your car windows, which tend to accumulate stubborn grime. Simply pour some Coke onto the window, scrub it gently, and then wipe it away with a damp cloth to remove any sticky residue left by the sugars.
8. Try Eating It
Coke has many uses in cooking. You can combine it with BBQ sauce for a fantastic marinade or even cook a whole chicken in it. Here is a flavorful recipe for chicken pieces cooked on the stovetop with Coke – give it a try, you'll be pleasantly surprised. The sugars create a shiny, caramelized coating, while the citric acid (like the kind in lemons) adds a zesty kick. Coke also works wonderfully as a glaze for baked ham.
7. Eliminate Skunk Odor
For those who live in areas where skunk odors are a common nuisance, adding a can of Coke to a bucket of water with detergent can help neutralize the smell. If you've been sprayed, stand in the shower and cover yourself completely with Coke, let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse off. As a bonus, Coke is also great for your hair, so you get two benefits in one!
6. Pain Relief
Coca-Cola’s chemicals can be quite effective in easing the pain from jellyfish stings. The best part is that while most beachgoers may not carry anti-sting lotions, they’re likely to have a bottle of Coke on hand. Simply pour the Coke over the sting site and experience relief. If you don't have any Coke available, the other traditional remedy is to urinate on the affected area – or have someone else do it for you.
5. Remove Blackened Pots
Pots can sometimes develop a stubborn black film on the bottom, often caused by overcooking or acidic foods. To restore your pot to its former glory, pour a can of Coke (or enough to cover the blackened area by about an inch) into the pot and simmer it on low heat for an hour. Afterward, wash the pot as you normally would.
4. Laundry Boost
Grease stains are notoriously hard to get rid of, and store-bought stain removers can be pricey. Here’s an affordable fix: pour a can of Coke into your laundry along with your regular detergent and run it through a normal cycle. This trick is also effective for removing blood stains and freshening up smelly clothes.
3. Create a Fizzy Explosion
Anyone who’s spent some time on the Internet has likely seen the classic Diet Coke and Mentos eruption. The trick is simple: drop a Mentos candy into a bottle of Coke, and watch as the chemical reaction sends the soda shooting into the air (not literally for miles, but it’s impressive!). Check out the video above for a fun example of this experiment. Why not grab a few bottles this weekend and see if you can top the spectacle in the clip?
2. Natural Remedies
Coca-Cola can be a handy remedy for various health issues. One of its most common uses is soothing an upset stomach. Simply sip on a glass of flat Coke, and it should help relieve nausea. It’s also beneficial for those suffering from diarrhea or a sore throat. While some may claim it can cure hiccups, honestly, a glass of water likely works just as well, as the chemicals in Coke don’t possess any unique ‘anti-hiccup’ properties.
1. Eliminate Bugs
This method also appeared in the beer list – and it works just as effectively. Pour some cola into a shallow dish and place it in the garden near the affected area. Slugs, snails, and other insects will be attracted to it, but they won’t make it out alive! This is an excellent first line of defense for your garden, and it can save you a lot of money by reducing the need for chemical pesticides. You can even pour the leftover Coke (without the bugs) onto acid-loving plants like azaleas and gardenias.
