Surprising Uses For Rice That Go Beyond Cooking

Many people buy dry rice in bulk because it can go with almost any meal. But did you know that rice has many uses being cooking? Spare some extra rice to clean appliances, wash your face, or create your own heating pad.

With these Do-It-Yourself (DIY) projects, you can save money and time. Rice can ripen fruit quickly and prevent salt from clumping. Learn many more surprising uses for uncooked rice by reading these hacks.

Create A DIY Heating/Cooling Pad

Rice can maintain temperature better than a regular towel. If you want a cheap heating pad (or cooling pad), make one yourself. Pour some dried rice into a sock (or other material) and tie the opening shut. Leave some room for the grains to move around.

rice heating pad
Bruce Yan/South China Morning Post via Getty Images
Bruce Yan/South China Morning Post via Getty Images

If you need a heating pad, place your sock in the microwave for about 45 seconds to one minute. For a cold pack, put it in the freezer for a few minutes. You can also sew a bag together for a prettier, more permanent pad.