Vinegar can be used in a multitude of ways to tackle everyday problems. Here are 20 of the most effective vinegar hacks that can transform your household chores.
1. Vinegar and Essential Oils as a Fabric Softener
Combine one cup of white vinegar with a few drops of your favorite essential oil to create a natural fabric softener. Add this mixture to your washing machine during the rinse cycle to soften clothes and leave them smelling fresh.
2. Vinegar and Cornstarch for Streak-Free Windows
Mix equal parts vinegar and water with a tablespoon of cornstarch to create a streak-free window cleaner. Spray onto glass surfaces and wipe with a microfiber cloth for a sparkling finish.
3. Deep Cleaning Stove Tops with Vinegar and Baking Soda
Sprinkle baking soda over your stovetop, then spray with vinegar. Let the mixture fizz and sit for 10 minutes before scrubbing with a sponge. This combination effectively cuts through grease and grime.
4. Natural Weed Killer: Vinegar and Salt Solution
Mix one gallon of white vinegar with one cup of salt and a tablespoon of dish soap. Spray this solution on weeds to kill them naturally without harming the environment.
5. Removing Odors from Fabrics with Vinegar
Add half a cup of vinegar to your laundry to neutralize odors in fabrics. This is particularly effective for removing musty smells from towels and workout clothes.
6. Descaling Coffee Makers Using Vinegar
Fill the water reservoir of your coffee maker with equal parts vinegar and water. Run a brewing cycle, then rinse with two cycles of fresh water to remove mineral buildup and improve coffee taste.
7. Reviving Old Paintbrushes with Vinegar
Soak hardened paintbrushes in hot vinegar for 30 minutes. Rinse with warm water to soften bristles and restore their usability.
8. Cleaning and Deodorizing Drains with Vinegar and Baking Soda
Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by one cup of vinegar. Let it fizz for 10 minutes, then flush with hot water to clear clogs and eliminate odors.
9. Polishing Silverware with Vinegar and Baking Soda Paste
Create a paste with three parts baking soda and one part vinegar. Apply to tarnished silverware, let sit for 15 minutes, then rinse and buff with a soft cloth.
10. Removing Rust from Tools with Vinegar Soak
Submerge rusty tools in a container of vinegar for 24 hours. Scrub with a brush to remove rust, then rinse and dry thoroughly.
11. Freshening Up the Refrigerator with Vinegar
Wipe down refrigerator shelves and walls with a solution of equal parts vinegar and water to remove odors and sanitize surfaces.
12. Cleaning Microwave with Vinegar Steam
Fill a microwave-safe bowl with equal parts vinegar and water. Microwave on high for 5 minutes, then wipe down the interior with a damp cloth to remove grime and odors.
13. Unclogging Shower Heads with Vinegar Soak
