We certainly are not limited when it comes to cleaning options. As a matter of fact, just a simple walk-through the grocery store will show you an entire aisle of chemicals that promise to be able to get the job done. In reality, it is best if you avoid the chemicals and choose something that is natural. Fortunately, you have vinegar, which really provides a cleaning option that many households will appreciate.
You will likely find at least one bottle of vinegar in your home. White vinegar, which is the most common choice, is either found in a glass or plastic bottle. You may not have really paid much attention to it, but once you see the different ways to can use vinegar in the home, you will rush to buy more.
1. Cut flowers
After a few days, cut flowers tend to droop but if you add 2 tablespoons of white vinegar and 1 tablespoon of sugar in a quart of water, it can really perk them up.
2. Dishwashers and coffee pots
One of the worst feelings in the world is pulling clean dishes out of a dishwater that smells. The same is also true when you pour your 1st cup of coffee in the morning out of a dirty coffeepot. Pour 1 cup of vinegar into a dishwasher and run it for a full cycle or run some through your coffee maker. Do it monthly to keep things nice and clean.
3. Refrigerator
It can be frustrating when you leave things in the refrigerator too long, as they can leak and cause some serious problems. If you wipe down your refrigerator with equal parts of vinegar and water, it does a good job of keeping it clean.
4. Sponges
Have you used your sponges beyond what they should be used? This can cause bacteria to breed and the sponges may start to stink. Don’t throw them away, put a sponge in a dish with water and 1/4 cup of white vinegar overnight.
5. Scissors
The household scissors can get a bit grimy after a while, and you certainly would not want to use them on food. If you wipe the blades with a damp cloth soaked in white vinegar, however, it will keep them nice and clean.
6. Ice cube trays
When you notice that your ice cube starts to taste funny, or if the ice cube trays are coated in residue, soak them in on diluted vinegar for up to five hours. Rinse with water and they will be as good as new.
7. Bathrooms
You can clean your bathtub, including soap scum, by warming up a half cup of vinegar for 30 seconds in the microwave. Add 1/4 cup of liquid dish soap and spray it on the tub, shower walls and fixtures. After letting it in the area for 30 minutes, wipe it with a clean sponge.
8. Showerheads
If you notice that your shower is getting clogged or if the showerhead is covered in residue, it’s time to soak it in vinegar. Mix 1/2 cup vinegar with 1 quart of water, put it in a plastic bag and tie it to the showerhead for a few hours.
9. Toothbrush
It is a good idea to toss your old toothbrush after a month but you can sanitize it in the meantime. Put it in a glass of water with 2 tablespoons of white vinegar and 2 tablespoons of baking soda. Let it soak for 30 minutes and rinse thoroughly.
10. Drains
If your kitchen drains have a lingering smell, it’s time to clean them. Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda and then 1 cup of vinegar down the drain. Wait until the foaming stops and run a hot tap down the drain for one minute. Wait five minutes and run cold water for 60 seconds.
11. Washing machine
A front loading washing machine is a great timesaver but it can also develop a musty smell. Wipe down the rubber seal around the door with equal parts of vinegar and water.
12. Hardwood floor
Most of us like to use non-toxic cleaners on the floor because of our children and pets. Dust or vacuum the hardwood floors and mop with a solution of 1/2 cup white vinegar in 1 gallon of warm water. Be sure to wring the mop out thoroughly. Mop in the direction of the floorboards to prevent too much water from soaking in.
13. Weeds
Spray white vinegar on the cracks in the sidewalk and watch the weeds dry up and disappear.
14. Bugs
Mix one part vinegar with three parts water and add a teaspoon of liquid dish soap. Spray it in the crevices around the home and windowsills to keep bugs from coming in.
H/T Shareably
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