Don’t throw away damaged tomatoes: the more damaged they are, the more valuable they are!

Make your pans shine with tomato power

Who would have guessed that an old tomato could rescue your favorite pan? Thanks to their natural acidity (citric, malic, and acetic acids), overripe tomatoes are surprisingly effective at cutting through grease and grime.

Simply cut a tomato in half and rub it directly onto the dirty surface — whether it’s a pan, pot, or even a stainless-steel sink. Let it sit for a few minutes, rinse with clear water, and admire the shine. No more stubborn residue!

Extra bonus: It’s a great eco-friendly alternative to chemical cleaning products, especially if you prefer natural, gentle ways to keep your kitchen spotless.

A few precautions to keep things safe

Before you get started, here are a few common-sense rules:

  • Never use tomatoes with white or black mold — they can contain harmful bacteria or toxins.
  • Always use a plastic bottle for fermentation; glass can crack under gas pressure.
  • If you use rice water for fertilizer, make sure it’s free of salt or oil.

So before you throw that wrinkly tomato away, think twice — it might just be the secret ingredient your garden, kitchen, or plants have been waiting for.