Tuesday, May 18, 2010

Homemade Spray Starch......


I have a confession to make.......I can be quite a rebel at times. I don't like being told that I have to do something a certain way. Take spray starch for example.....I love how spray starch makes everything crisp and clean looking. But I don't like how spray starch smells....and yes, I have tried several different kinds. I really don't like smells of any sort....except fresh babies....but that's an entirely different story!

So several years ago while ironing Wayne's shirts (and suffering from migraines because of the yucky smell), I decided I wasn't going to conform and use spray starch anymore. But I knew I had to use something. A hot iron alone can make cotton behave somewhat...but throw some spray starch in, and there you find the magic, minus the wrinkles!

The answer was as close as my kitchen. Here is my solution: In a measuring cup, mix 16 oz. of water with 1 Tablespoon of cornstarch. Then pour it into a spray bottle. Shake the bottle while you use it to keep the solution all mixed together. If I have a lot left over I have even been known to store it in the refrigerator until next time.

I use this for all of my ironing....any clothes that need ironing as well as any of my sewing projects where I would normally use purchased spray starch. I have been doing this for almost 10 years now and it works every bit as good. I'll never go back to purchased spray starch! And it is much cheaper! Wayne even likes it and uses it.

Now you know another one of my little secrets......will you still come back and visit with me???

11 comments:

The dB family said...

I most certainly will :o)! Thank you so much for sharing this secret. I've been wondering if I could actually make my own spray starch. Now you've answered my question!

Blessings!
Deborah

Tammy said...

Perfect! I have been looking for recipes for "green" cleaners and personal care items. So far I have made disinfectant, all purpose cleaner, window cleaner, and hairspray. The hairspray needs another recipe. LOL I have quite a few other things I want to try too, and I will definitely give this a try!

Ellie Inspired said...

You are a genius! How did you know to add cornstarch to it? I've heard some mix vinegar and water together too but I have no idea the proportions. Thanks for the tip!

Susan said...

Such a rebel you are! LOL I knew a person could make spray starch, but I've never done it, since I'm fine with using purchased starch.

Samantha Caffee said...

And that's why I love you so stinkin much...because you rock my face off with all of your cool tips and secrets! What would I do without my Cindy?? Give the kids a kiss for me and tell them that Molly says hey :)

xo,
Sam

Laurie said...

What an awesome tip! Thanks bunches!

Bunny said...

Thanks so much for this wonderful tip. Who knew it was so easy? I mix my own from old fashioned starch concentrate. This sounds easier and certainly cheaper.

The Damsel In Dis Dress said...

wow! cool. I'd like to post this on my blog, if you don't mind. (It's all about making stuff from scratch, etc.)

Cindy said...

Thanks ladies. All I can attribute this idea to was a conversation I had with my mom about 10 years ago. She was telling me how she used to make her starch and sprinkle it on the clothes, let them sit for a few minutes and then iron them. Somehow I came up with this idea. Since then I have found more information on the internet that supports this as well.

To the Damsel in Dis Dress....I don't mind if you post this info as long as you provide a link back to my blog. Thanks for understanding.

Jenifer Harrod said...

Oh my goodness this is great! I am going to try this for sure.

migdalia said...

amazing idea. my mother made starch with cassabe, yuca in spanish.

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