Cream of tartar, also known as potassium bitartrate, is a common baking ingredient. It’s that white, powdery substance you might find lurking in the back of your pantry. But what happens when you discover a container of cream of tartar that’s past its “best by” date? Is it destined for the trash? Absolutely not! Even old cream of tartar can be a valuable asset around your home. Let’s explore the myriad of uses for this unassuming powder, extending far beyond the realm of baking.
Cream of Tartar: More Than Just Baking Powder’s Friend
Cream of tartar is a byproduct of winemaking. During the fermentation process, tartaric acid precipitates and forms crystals. These crystals are then purified and ground into the fine powder we know as cream of tartar. While it plays a vital role in baking, stabilizing egg whites and adding a tang to certain recipes, its cleaning and household applications are often overlooked.
Cleaning Powerhouse: Harnessing Cream of Tartar’s Acidity
The slightly acidic nature of cream of tartar makes it an effective and gentle cleaning agent. It can tackle a variety of household cleaning tasks without harsh chemicals.
Brightening Stained Porcelain and Ceramics
Got a coffee-stained mug or a bathtub with stubborn discoloration? Cream of tartar can come to the rescue. Make a paste of cream of tartar and water, apply it to the stained area, and let it sit for about 15-20 minutes. Then, scrub gently with a sponge or cloth and rinse thoroughly. The mild abrasive action combined with the acidity helps lift stains without scratching the surface.
Polishing Metal: Copper, Brass, and Stainless Steel
Cream of tartar is an excellent natural metal polish. Its gentle abrasiveness can restore shine to tarnished copper, brass, and stainless steel items. For copper and brass, mix cream of tartar with lemon juice to form a paste. Apply the paste to the metal, let it sit for a few minutes, and then scrub with a soft cloth. Rinse and dry thoroughly. For stainless steel, you can create a paste with water or vinegar. Always test the paste on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the finish.
Removing Rust Stains
Rust stains can be a nightmare to remove, but cream of tartar can help. Make a paste of cream of tartar and hydrogen peroxide. Apply the paste to the rust stain, let it sit for a few hours or even overnight, and then scrub with a brush or cloth. Rinse thoroughly. You may need to repeat the process for stubborn stains. This method is particularly effective on fabrics, but always test in a hidden area first.
Cleaning Grout
Dirty grout lines can make a kitchen or bathroom look dingy. Cream of tartar can help brighten and clean grout. Mix cream of tartar with water to create a paste. Apply the paste to the grout lines, let it sit for about 10-15 minutes, and then scrub with a brush. Rinse thoroughly. For tougher stains, you can add a little baking soda to the paste.
Reviving Cutting Boards
Cutting boards, especially wooden ones, can accumulate stains and odors over time. Cream of tartar can help revive them. Sprinkle cream of tartar onto the cutting board, then rub it in with half a lemon. Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse with warm water. The combination of the cream of tartar’s abrasiveness and the lemon’s acidity helps to remove stains and odors.
Beauty Benefits: Cream of Tartar in Your Skincare Routine
While it’s important to exercise caution and perform a patch test before applying anything new to your skin, cream of tartar can offer some surprising beauty benefits.
Acne Treatment (Use with Caution)
Some people use cream of tartar as a spot treatment for acne. The theory is that its acidity can help to dry out blemishes and reduce inflammation. However, it’s crucial to proceed with extreme caution. Apply a very small amount of cream of tartar mixed with water to the affected area only, and leave it on for a short period of time (no more than a few minutes). Rinse thoroughly and discontinue use if any irritation occurs. This is not suitable for sensitive skin.
Skin Brightening Mask (Use with Caution)
Similar to its use in cleaning, cream of tartar can be used in a face mask to potentially brighten skin. Mix a tiny amount of cream of tartar with honey or yogurt to create a mask. Apply it to your face, avoiding the eye area, and leave it on for no more than 5-10 minutes. Rinse thoroughly. This is not recommended for individuals with sensitive skin or conditions like rosacea or eczema. Perform a patch test on a small area of skin before applying to the entire face.
Gardening Applications: A Surprising Ally for Your Plants
Cream of tartar can also be used in the garden to benefit certain plants.
Boosting Soil Acidity for Acid-Loving Plants
Plants like azaleas, rhododendrons, and blueberries thrive in acidic soil. Cream of tartar can help lower the pH of your soil. Dissolve a small amount of cream of tartar in water and use it to water your acid-loving plants. Be careful not to overdo it, as too much acidity can harm your plants. Test your soil pH regularly to ensure it’s within the optimal range.
Repelling Ants (Temporary Solution)
Some gardeners claim that cream of tartar can repel ants. Sprinkle a line of cream of tartar around areas where you see ants. While this may offer a temporary deterrent, it’s not a long-term solution. It’s best to address the root cause of the ant infestation.
Creative Projects: Fun and Functional Uses
Beyond cleaning, beauty, and gardening, cream of tartar can also be used in various creative projects.
Playdough Ingredient: Creating Homemade Fun
Cream of tartar is a common ingredient in homemade playdough recipes. It helps to create a smooth, elastic texture. There are countless playdough recipes available online that incorporate cream of tartar. Making your own playdough is a fun and inexpensive activity for kids.
Making Crystals: A Science Experiment
Growing crystals is a classic science experiment that can be done at home using cream of tartar. Dissolve a large amount of cream of tartar in boiling water. As the solution cools, crystals will begin to form. This is a fun and educational activity for children and adults alike.
Important Considerations: Safety and Storage
While cream of tartar is generally safe, it’s important to take certain precautions.
Storage: Keep It Cool and Dry
To prolong the shelf life of cream of tartar, store it in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. This will prevent it from clumping or absorbing moisture.
Allergies and Sensitivities: Be Aware
Although rare, some people may be allergic to cream of tartar. If you experience any allergic reactions, such as skin rashes or breathing difficulties, discontinue use immediately.
Patch Testing: Always a Good Idea
Before using cream of tartar on your skin or plants, it’s always a good idea to perform a patch test. This will help you determine if you have any sensitivities or allergies.
Cleaning Delicate Surfaces: Test First
When using cream of tartar as a cleaning agent, always test it on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the surface.
The Bottom Line: Don’t Throw It Away!
Old cream of tartar, even if past its “best by” date, still possesses valuable cleaning, beauty, gardening, and creative properties. Before tossing it out, consider the many ways you can repurpose this versatile powder and put it to good use around your home. You might be surprised at how much you can accomplish with this simple ingredient.
What exactly is cream of tartar, and is it safe to use for non-baking purposes?
Cream of tartar, chemically known as potassium bitartrate, is a byproduct of winemaking. It’s the acidic salt that crystallizes inside wine barrels during fermentation. After being purified, it becomes the white, powdery substance found in grocery stores. While it’s primarily known for its role in baking, its mild acidity and abrasive properties make it useful for various cleaning and household applications.
Yes, cream of tartar is generally safe to use for non-baking purposes as long as it is handled with reasonable care. It’s non-toxic and biodegradable, making it an environmentally friendly alternative to many harsh chemical cleaners. However, avoid ingesting large quantities or using it on surfaces that could be damaged by acidic substances, such as certain types of stone. Always test a small, inconspicuous area before applying it to a larger surface.
How can cream of tartar be used to clean stained cups and mugs?
Cream of tartar works wonders on removing stubborn stains from tea and coffee cups and mugs. Its gentle abrasive quality helps lift the stains without scratching the delicate surfaces. To use it, create a paste by mixing cream of tartar with a small amount of water. The consistency should be thick enough to spread easily.
Apply the paste directly to the stained areas of the cup or mug and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, use a soft sponge or cloth to gently scrub the stains away. Rinse the cup or mug thoroughly with water and dry it with a clean towel. For particularly tough stains, you may need to repeat the process.
Can cream of tartar help remove rust from metal surfaces?
Yes, cream of tartar can be used to remove light rust from metal surfaces due to its mild acidity. The acid helps to dissolve the rust, making it easier to wipe away. For this application, you’ll typically create a paste similar to the one used for cleaning stained cups.
Mix cream of tartar with water to form a paste. Apply the paste to the rusted area and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes. Use a non-abrasive scouring pad or a toothbrush to scrub the rust away gently. Rinse the metal surface thoroughly with water and dry it immediately to prevent new rust from forming. For heavier rust, multiple applications may be necessary.
How can cream of tartar be used to brighten laundry?
Cream of tartar can act as a natural laundry booster, helping to brighten whites and remove stains. Its mild acidity helps to lift dirt and grime from fabrics. To use it, simply add a small amount of cream of tartar to your washing machine along with your regular laundry detergent.
Generally, one or two tablespoons of cream of tartar per load is sufficient. It’s best to dissolve the cream of tartar in warm water before adding it to the washing machine, especially if you have a top-loading machine. This ensures that it is evenly distributed throughout the wash cycle. Cream of tartar is particularly effective for brightening white clothes and removing mild stains.
Is cream of tartar effective for cleaning ovens?
While cream of tartar might not be as powerful as commercial oven cleaners, it can be used for a milder, more natural cleaning approach. Its gentle abrasive qualities, combined with its acidity, can help loosen baked-on food and grease. This method is best for routine maintenance cleaning rather than tackling heavily soiled ovens.
Mix cream of tartar with a bit of water to create a paste. Apply this paste to the interior surfaces of your oven, focusing on areas with food splatters and grease buildup. Let the paste sit for several hours or even overnight. Then, use a sponge or cloth to scrub the surfaces clean. Rinse thoroughly with water and dry with a clean towel. For stubborn spots, you can add a little baking soda to the paste for extra cleaning power.
Can cream of tartar be used to make playdough?
Yes, cream of tartar is a key ingredient in many homemade playdough recipes. It acts as a preservative and helps to give the playdough a smoother, more elastic texture. Playdough made with cream of tartar tends to last longer and is less likely to become crumbly compared to recipes that omit it.
Typical playdough recipes involve combining cream of tartar with flour, salt, water, and oil. The ingredients are cooked together over low heat until a dough forms. Once cooled, the playdough can be kneaded and used for creative play. Adding food coloring during the cooking process allows you to create a variety of vibrant colors for your playdough.
Are there any precautions to take when using cream of tartar for cleaning?
While cream of tartar is generally safe, it’s important to take a few precautions when using it for cleaning. Avoid using it on delicate surfaces that could be scratched by its mild abrasive properties. Always test it in an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage or discolor the material you are cleaning. Also, avoid direct contact with eyes, and rinse immediately if contact occurs.
Furthermore, be mindful of mixing cream of tartar with other cleaning agents, especially those containing ammonia or bleach. Mixing certain chemicals can create hazardous fumes. Stick to using cream of tartar on its own or with simple ingredients like water, baking soda, or vinegar. Always store cream of tartar in a dry, airtight container to prevent it from clumping or losing its effectiveness.