Aluminum foil has long been a kitchen staple, known for its versatility in everything from wrapping leftovers to crafting creative projects. But recently, a surprising use for this common household item has taken North Carolina by storm—and it involves your dishwasher.

Homeowners across the state are swearing by a hack that promises to transform their kitchen routines, and it’s so simple you’ll wonder why you didn’t think of it sooner. Curious? Keep reading to find out how a ball of aluminum foil might change the way you clean forever.

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How to Add Shine to Your Utensils

The method is straightforward: tightly crumple a piece of aluminum foil into a ball and place it inside the dishwasher’s utensil basket. Ensure the foil ball is nestled snugly among the cutlery for the best results, as it won’t be as effective if it shifts during the cycle. Then, run the dishwasher as you normally would.

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The secret to this hack lies in science. The heat and moisture from the dishwasher activate the oxidation process in the aluminum foil. During this reaction, ions from tarnished cutlery are drawn to the foil, which helps lift discoloration and grime. By the end of the cycle, the silverware will be noticeably shinier, while the foil ball will appear tarnished from absorbing the debris.

Does This Work on Glassware?

You might have seen claims that aluminum foil can also restore smudged or cloudy glassware, but chemists have debunked this myth. Unlike metal, glass doesn’t react to oxidation, so foil won’t have the same cleaning effect. For spotless glassware, you’ll need a different solution.

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A Bonus Tip for Sparkling Glassware

If your glasses are plagued by hard water stains or mineral buildup, distilled white vinegar is your best friend. Simply pour a cup of vinegar into a dishwasher-safe bowl, place it on the same rack as your glassware, and run a hot cycle. The heat and acidity of the vinegar will break down stubborn deposits, leaving your glassware crystal clear.

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With these clever cleaning tricks, aluminum foil and vinegar can help you achieve a sparkling kitchen—one load at a time.

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Gallery Credit: Aubrey Jane McClaine

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