5 Things You Didn’t Know You Could Clean With Ketchup

Daniel Mitchell in Home & Design

9/30/25

This article may contain affiliate links, learn more.

Ketchup is usually seen as a pantry staple for burgers and fries, but it turns out it has a secret second life as a cleaner. Its acidity makes it surprisingly useful on a few types of surfaces and materials around the house. Here, we’ll explain some of the unexpected ways ketchup can tackle tarnish and stains, and how you can try these methods yourself.

1. Copper and Brass

If you’ve got copper-bottomed pots, old brass handles, or decorative copper items that have dulled over time, ketchup might help. The vinegar and natural acids in ketchup break down oxidation. Just rub a thin layer onto the surface, let it sit for 10–15 minutes, then wipe with a soft cloth. You’ll often see a brighter shine without any tough scrubbing needed. It’s a good option if you don’t want to use chemical polishers on sentimental or antique pieces.

A brass door handle, the top half covered in ketchup.

2. Silverware

Over time, silver utensils can get cloudy or darkened from oxidation, but ketchup can lift some of that tarnish. Apply a little with a cloth, rub it in gently, and rinse thoroughly after. It won’t restore heavily damaged silver, but for light discoloration, it can bring back some shine. It’s also a good trick if you’re in a pinch and don’t have silver polish on hand before guests arrive.

A hand using a napkin dipped in ketchup to clean a silver spoon.

3. Car Headlights

Ketchup can help remove grime and oxidation from plastic car headlights. It’s thick enough to stay in place while its acidity gets to work, so it’s better than runnier liquid cleaners. Spread a layer over the lens and let it sit for 10–15 minutes. Wipe it off with a damp cloth, then rinse. You may need to repeat those steps a few times, but it’s a low-cost option before turning to more expensive restoration kits. It won’t make them look brand new, but they’ll be clearer!

A close photo of a woman's hand using a microfiber cloth to clean a car headlight.

4. Pots and Pans

Sometimes, no matter how much you scrub, food that’s burnt onto your pots and pans won’t budge. Spread some ketchup across the burnt area and let it sit for several hours or overnight until morning. The mild acid can help lift carbonized residue, making it easier to scrub away. It won’t work miracles on deep burns, but it can loosen enough to save you a bit of elbow grease.

A pot upside down on top of a tea towel, the top half of the pot covered in ketchup.

5. Stainless Steel

Stainless steel appliances tend to show every smudge and fingerprint. A little ketchup on a soft cloth can help remove that grease and restore that new, clean look. Apply lightly, wipe in circular motions, then rinse and dry. It’s not as effective as commercial stainless steel cleaners, but it can work in a pinch. Just be sure to wash it off fully to avoid any lingering residue or smell.

Two photos of the silver base of a stool. On the left, a dull base is covered in a thin layer of ketchup. On the right, it's clean and shiny.

While ketchup isn’t a universal cleaner, it has a few fascinating uses outside of its life as a condiment. Who knew such a faithful kitchen staple could do so much? Just remember, if you’re attempting to clean something up with ketchup, test it on a small area first. Once you’re sure it’ll work, then you can get to cleaning the whole piece, and maybe make some fries while you’re at it too!