HA
Starches

Cornstarch

Refined starch from Zea mays
Also called Maizena (Latin America)

The neutral thickener — gravies, custards, sting paste, dry shampoo, homemade body powder.

Comes as standardnon-GMOorganic
Common uses gravy and sauce thickening (slurry with cold water)custardsinsect-sting pastedry shampoo for light hairbody powder
On this page thickening & dry uses
The basics

About Cornstarch

What it is

Cornstarch and similar starches thicken sauces and gravies in cooking — and play a quiet second role as dry shampoo, baby powder, and itch-relief poultice off the stove.

Key thing to know about Cornstarch

Always mix into cold water first before adding to hot liquid — otherwise clumps. For dry shampoo on darker hair, mix 50/50 with cocoa powder.

1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water = slurry for thickening 1 cup hot liquid; equal-parts paste with water for sting; sprinkle dry on hair roots

These are the most common uses for Cornstarch. Each card explains what to do, why it works, and what to notice.

How to use Cornstarch for thickening and dry uses

Make a slurry: 1 tablespoon starch + 2 tablespoons cold water. Whisk into a hot liquid to thicken.

Why it works for thickening and dry uses

Always mix cornstarch with cold water before adding to a hot pan — adding it dry will create lumps. Off the stove, the same starch makes dry shampoo, body powder, or a paste for insect stings.

What you'll notice
  • Thicken sauces, gravies, custards
  • Replace baby powder with food-grade starch
  • A dry shampoo for light hair
  • Stop the itch from insect stings
  • A multi-purpose pantry tool

Frequently asked questions about Cornstarch

What is Cornstarch used for?+

Cornstarch is most often used for thickening and dry uses. Make a slurry: 1 tablespoon starch + 2 tablespoons cold water. Whisk into a hot liquid to thicken.

Are there any tricks to using Cornstarch?+

Always mix into cold water first before adding to hot liquid — otherwise clumps. For dry shampoo on darker hair, mix 50/50 with cocoa powder.

What forms does Cornstarch come in?+

Cornstarch is available as standard, non-gmo, and organic. Each form has slightly different uses — check the preparation notes for which form fits your purpose.

How do I store Cornstarch?+

Airtight container in a cool, dry place. Shelf life: Indefinite dry..

Is Cornstarch safe for pets?+

Cornstarch is generally safe around pets. Non-toxic; small amounts safe.

What is Cornstarch also called?+

Cornstarch is also known as Maizena (Latin America) in traditional systems.

Where does Cornstarch come from?+

Non-GMO and organic versions widely available.

Reference notes

About Cornstarch

Where it comes from

Non-GMO and organic versions widely available.

Storage & shelf life

Shelf life: Indefinite dry.

Airtight container in a cool, dry place.

Safety

Don't inhale dry powder (lung irritation). People with corn allergy must avoid — substitute arrowroot or tapioca.

Skin irritation

Pet safety — Generally safe

Non-toxic; small amounts safe.

Type Starches Availability Tier 1