15 Strange Ketchup Hacks That Actually Work
Ketchup has been around long enough to earn its spot on the table, but its potential goes far beyond dipping sauces and sandwich spreads. Some say it’s just a condiment. Others have tested that theory—and ended up surprised. These odd uses might raise an eyebrow, but they’ve got the results to back them up.
Make money easier. Sign up for The Penny Hoarder’s newsletter today.
1. Eliminate Rust
The acids in ketchup have a strange yet effective ability to break down surface rust on metals. It’s especially handy for those small patches of orange on metal things. Just smear on a generous layer, let it sit overnight, and then scrub it off. Also, rinse and dry well afterward to avoid re-rusting.
More From The Penny Hoarder: 31 Ways to Make Money Online & From Home in 2025
2. Polish Copper And Brass
Copper pots look stunning until they tarnish into greenish-brown shadows of themselves. That’s where ketchup works its unexpected magic. A thick layer applied to the surface of brass or copper lets its natural acidity dissolve that buildup. To fix it, coat the item, rub it gently with a cloth, and rinse it clean.
More From The Penny Hoarder: 17 Make-Your-Own-Schedule Jobs You Can Do From Home
3. Remove Hair Dye Stains
You might have noticed that sometimes your hair takes on an accidental green tint, usually after heavy chlorine exposure. Ketchup can temporarily tone that down. Spread it to the affected strands like a hair mask, making sure to coat everything evenly. Let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes, then wash and condition as usual.
More From The Penny Hoarder: 100+ Places That Will Give You Free Stuff on Your Birthday
4. Soothe Insect Bites
Gently wash the insect bite with soap and water. Then, dab a small amount of ketchup directly onto the bite and allow it to remain for about 10–15 minutes. Lastly, rinse the area with cool water and pat dry. Here, it’s important to note that while ketchup can offer short-term soothing effects, it is not a substitute for medical treatments.
More From The Penny Hoarder: Free Baby Stuff for Expecting Mothers in 2025 (38 Freebies & Deals!)
5. Clean Toilet Bowl Stains
No one likes dealing with hard water stains in the toilet, but they do show up. So, instead of scrubbing endlessly or reaching for bleach, try ketchup. Squirt it around the rim and let gravity do the work as it drips down to cover the area. Leave it there for at least 30 minutes—longer if the stains are stubborn—then scrub with a toilet brush and flush.
More From The Penny Hoarder: 8 Ways Savvy Shoppers Are Outsmarting Inflation at the Grocery Store
6. Remove Crayon Marks
Ketchup’s mild acidity can help loosen crayon wax from glossy or vinyl wallpaper. Dab a small amount onto the mark, wait up to two minutes, then wipe with a damp cloth. It’s surprisingly effective—but always patch test first, since ketchup may stain matte or porous surfaces if left too long. It’s an unusual go-to for desperate parents dealing with pint-sized Picassos.
More From The Penny Hoarder: Everything You Need To Know About Debt
7. Revive Dull Jewelry
Costume jewelry that’s been sitting around for a while often loses its luster. In such a case, dip the piece or dab on the ketchup with a toothbrush. Let it rest for a few minutes and rinse. Avoid using this method on anything porous or with delicate gemstones. However, basic metal pieces can work wonders.
More From The Penny Hoarder: 5 Strategies to Consolidate Your Credit Card Debt
8. Clean Tarnished Silverware
When your silverware starts looking patchy or loses its shine, try giving it the ketchup treatment. Coat each piece with ketchup and leave it on for around five to ten minutes. Then, rinse under warm water and polish with a cloth. It’s a gentle option compared to strong chemical polishes, and you don’t have to worry about fumes or residue.
More From The Penny Hoarder: How Credit Card Debt Works
9. Shine Bathroom Fixtures
Water spots and grime on faucets can make an otherwise clean bathroom look neglected. That’s where ketchup saves the day again. Spread a small amount on your sink handles, tub spout, or shower fixtures. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, then wipe it off with a soft cloth. The mild acids break down limescale and soap scum without corroding the metal.
More From The Penny Hoarder: Get Your Finances Together This Year With One of Our Favorite Budgeting Apps
10. Shine Stainless Steel Sinks
Surprisingly, ketchup can help remove mineral deposits and dull spots from stainless steel. Once you’ve coated the marks, allow the ketchup to sit briefly before wiping it off with a damp cloth. The natural acids help lift stains without scratching. However, test a small area first to avoid damaging delicate finishes due to prolonged exposure.
More From The Penny Hoarder: Our Picks for The Best Budget Apps for Couples
11. Remove Stickers Or Decals
If you’ve ever peeled off a price sticker only to be left with a stubborn glue residue, ketchup could be your secret weapon. Spread a bit over the sticky area and leave it for 20 minutes. When you wipe it off, the adhesive loosens up, making it easy to scrub clean. This works best on glass, metal, and plastic, not on fabric or wood.
More From The Penny Hoarder: Budgeting 101: How to Budget Money
12. Loosen Tarnished Screws
Old screws that won’t budge can derail any DIY project. Sometimes, the threads just stick with rust or buildup. Ketchup can seep into those crevices, softening the corrosion just enough to get things moving. Dab it on the screw head and surrounding area, allow it to sit for an hour, then try again with your screwdriver.
More From The Penny Hoarder: Our Picks for The Best Savings Accounts for This Month
13. Clean Burnt Pans
Rub a thick coat of ketchup over the burnt section and leave it overnight. The acetic acid will help weaken the stubborn buildup. In the morning, scrub the area with a sponge or brush, and you’ll find the burnt bits come off more easily. This method can also extend the life of your cookware without the need for harsh chemicals.
More From The Penny Hoarder: Our Picks for The Best Bank Promotions This Month
14. Use As A Bug Splatter Remover
For stuck-on insect remains, especially around the front bumper and grille, spread ketchup directly over the area in a thin, even layer. Let it sit for 10–12 minutes—no scrubbing needed. The pH level softens the debris. Wipe clean with a microfiber towel and rinse well to prevent stickiness or streaks.
More From The Penny Hoarder: The Top 0% Interest APR Credit Cards in 2025
15. Unclog Minor Drain Build-Up
Got a slow-draining sink and no drain cleaner on hand? Ketchup’s acidic ingredients can help loosen minor gunk buildup. Pour half a cup into the drain, and leave it for 15–20 minutes, then flush with hot water. It won’t fix major clogs, but it can freshen up sluggish kitchen drains in a pinch.
More From The Penny Hoarder:
- Smarten Up, Americans. No Offense But Millions of Us Haven’t Used These Money Secrets
- The Dumbest Things We Keep Spending Too Much Money On
- The Best Balance Transfer Credit Cards
- Budgeting 101: How to Budget Money
