KETCHUP

MAKE COPPER POTS GLEAM • When copper pots and pans–or decorative molds–get tarnished, brighten them with ketchup. It’s cheaper than commercial tarnish removers and safe to apply without gloves. Coat the copper surface with a thin layer of ketchup straight from the bottle. Let sit for 5 to 30 minutes. Acids in ketchup react with the tarnish and remove it. Rinse and dry.

GET RID OF CHLORINE GREEN • If chlorine from swimming pools is turning your blond tresses green, eliminate the problem with a ketchup shampoo. In the shower, massage ketchup generously into your hair. Leave it in for 15 minutes and wash it out with baby shampoo. The green tinge–and the chlorine ordor–should both be gone.

DID YOU KNOW?

Ketchup originated in the Far East as a salty fish sauce and probably comes from China or Malasia. Brought to the West, by the 1700s it included a variety of sauces. You can still find banana, mushroom, and other ketchups. Tomato ketchup is actually a relative newcomer. First sold in 1837, it is found in more than 90 percent of homes in North America. What would your charbroiled hamburger be without ketchup?

KEEP IT SPARKLING!

Use ketchup to polish your silver jewelry. If a ring or bracelet has a smooth surface, dunk it in a small bowl of ketchup for a few minutes. If it has a detailed surface, use a toothbrush and work ketchup into the crevices. Don’t leave ketchup on any longer than necessary. Rinse and dry thoroughly.