Potatoes are packed with natural vitamins and minerals, making them an essential food storage item. But did you know potatoes have amazing uses beyond the kitchen? From cleaning and repairs to even powering electronics, the humble potato proves to be one of the most versatile vegetables. Below, we’ve listed 8 unexpected ways to use potatoes. Share your tips in the comments below!
1. Remove Stains from Your Hands
After carving pumpkins or working with dyes, your hands may be stained. Simply rub a potato on your hands to remove stubborn stains easily.
2. Fix Over-Salted Soup
Accidentally added too much salt to your soup? Cut a potato into chunks and add it to the pot while cooking. The potato absorbs excess salt. Once softened, remove the potato chunks and reuse them in another dish!
3. Remove a Broken Light Bulb
Dealing with a shattered light bulb? Ensure the power is off, then press half a potato onto the broken bulb's base. Twist gently to remove it from the socket safely.
4. Remove Tarnish from Silverware
Impress guests with spotless silverware! Boil potatoes, remove them from the water, and soak your tarnished silverware in the starchy water for an hour. Rinse and dry for a polished look.
5. Power a Clock
Potatoes can generate energy to power a small LED clock! All you need are two galvanized nails and a raw potato. Learn how to create a potato clock here.
6. Keep Ski Goggles Clear
Prevent foggy goggles on the slopes by rubbing a raw potato on the outer surface. This creates a barrier that keeps water and ice away, ensuring a clear view while skiing.
7. Reduce Puffy Eyes
Say goodbye to tired, puffy eyes. Place slices of raw potato over your eyes for a few minutes. The coldness and natural properties of the potato help reduce swelling.
8. Restore Old Shoes
Bring scuffed shoes back to life with a potato! Rub the surface of the shoes with a halved potato, then polish them as usual for a renewed shine.
