10 Uses for Cream of Tartar That Don't Involve Cooking

Cream of tartar actually occurs naturally in many plants and is a natural byproduct of the winemaking process. Its most well-known skills are obviously cooking-related since cream of tartar is an adept stabilizing agent. Indeed, it adds texture, volume, and occasionally creaminess to certain food products, but it is particularly known as an egg white stabilizer.

Although cream of tartar clearly excels in churning out fluffy baked goods, the substance is also used as an additive to control the pH levels (basicity or acidity) of products, prevent microorganisms like bacteria from growing, and keep foodstuffs from getting all lumpy thanks to excessive moisture.

People don't like ants inside the home, but they also don't like harsh insecticides where they eat, sleep and breathe. Cream of tartar is a happy way to split the difference.

Simply drizzle a line of the white stuff in the area where you suspect the insects are gaining entry. They'll turn around automatically to avoid it. Who knew you could find pest control options in the baking aisle?

DIY bath bombs are all the rage and show no sign of slowing down. Although you can make bath bombs with a variety of ingredients, including citric acid, cornstarch, baking powder, and more, cream of tartar is arguably the best at hardening them. It also makes the bombs extra fizzy, according to this recipe.

Combined with baking soda, salt and boiling water, cream of tartar is a powerful drain de-clogger. The first two ingredients are pros at destroying materials that cause clogs, and the cream of tartar cleans up metal to an impressive shine. The boiling water, poured on top of the mixture, helps them do their jobs to the fullest.

Out of spray stain remover? Don't fret too much, because a little bit of cream of tartar will go a long way toward tackling that stain. Just sprinkle some onto the new, damp stain, then launder the garment as usual. Repeat if necessary.

Speaking of stains, sometimes even the most well-bleached garments get a little yellow in spots. Fight this discoloration by spritzing the affected area with water. Then, apply powdered cream of tartar, rub it in, and allow it to soak. Launder as you normally would and repeat as needed.

This one is just a rumor, but many people swear by cream of tartar's ability to clear up acne. It's probably not far off base since the product is known for being antimicrobial. Anyway, it certainly won't hurt your skin if you just mix this acidic powder with a little water and apply directly to blemishes.

Old coffee leaves a nasty residue in your coffee pot and in your favorite coffee mugs. Just sprinkle some cream of tartar upon any surface with stains, add boiling water, and let the water chill to room temp before you rinse. Tartar makes the coffee stains disappear!

Thanks to its metal-cleaning properties, cream of tartar is a great option for those who want to remove rust. Mix it up with baking soda and hydrogen peroxide, then apply it to the affected metal. Allow it to soak for at least an hour, then wipe it with a damp cloth. Repeat as needed.

A little bit of cream of tartar is also said to act as a laxative, effectively easing constipation. However, it's also a diuretic, so it can cause dehydration if used excessively. So, maybe just use a smidge when the situation calls for it?

Cream of tartar mixed with vinegar makes an all-natural paste that's aces at breathing new life into old aluminum pots and pans. Apply the paste to the pan, then allow it to set for at least an hour, longer if possible.

Scrub the pan and watch the caked-on food, grime, and other detritus disappear. Rinse well in warm, soapy water.

While cream of tartar is famous for firming up egg whites and making everything from whipped cream and sugar crystals to homemade playdough, it has so much to offer beyond the kitchen. As versatile as baking powder and white vinegar, this pantry staple can solve problems in the laundry room, bathroom, and even the garage!

Next time you're using potassium bitartrate to make angel food cake, reflect upon how the same acidic ingredient can remove stains, improve your bath, and make your car look brand new.