Beyond the kitchen: Surprising household hacks using vinegar to save money
July 7, 2023
For centuries, vinegar has been used for cooking and cleaning. It’s a versatile liquid that can be found in most households, but did you know it can also be used in a variety of unexpected ways? Beyond cooking and cleaning, vinegar can be used in a variety of household hacks that can save you money. From freshening up your laundry and cleaning pet stains to repelling insects and deodorizing your shoes, vinegar has a lot of surprising uses around the house.
In this post, I will explore some innovative and money-saving ways to use vinegar that you may not have considered before. So, grab a bottle of vinegar and let’s dive in!
1. Introduction: Why vinegar is a great household hack
Vinegar is a multi-purpose liquid that has been used for centuries for cooking, cleaning, and even medical purposes. It is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many ways around the house for a variety of household hacks that will save you both time and money.
One of the reasons vinegar is so useful is its acidity. Vinegar has a high level of acetic acid, which gives it its sour taste and strong smell. This acidity also makes it a powerful cleaning agent that can be used to dissolve and remove dirt, grime, and even mineral deposits.
In addition to its cleaning properties, vinegar is also a natural deodorizer that can neutralize unpleasant odors in your home. It can be used to remove bad smells from your carpets, furniture, and even your washing machine.
Another great benefit of vinegar is that it is a natural and eco-friendly alternative to harsh chemicals that can be harmful to the environment and your health. By using vinegar instead of chemical cleaners, you can reduce your carbon footprint and create a safer and healthier living environment for you and your family.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some surprising household hacks using vinegar that go beyond the kitchen. You’ll be amazed at the many ways vinegar can be used to save you money and make your life easier.
2. Removing stains from clothes and carpet
Vinegar is a fantastic household item that can be utilized for a multitude of purposes, including removing stains from clothes and carpets. It is an inexpensive and effective alternative to expensive stain removers and detergents.
For stains on clothes, simply mix a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water and apply it to the affected area. Allow the solution to soak in for at least 15 minutes before washing as usual. This solution works great on a variety of stains, including grass, coffee, and even blood.
For carpet stains, mix one tablespoon of white vinegar with one tablespoon of dish soap and two cups of warm water. Apply the solution to the stain using a clean cloth and blot the stain until it disappears. Rinse the area with clean water and blot dry with a clean cloth. This solution is effective on a variety of carpet stains, including pet urine, red wine, and coffee.
Not only is vinegar an effective stain remover, but it is also eco-friendly and non-toxic, making it safe to use around children and pets. By using vinegar as a stain remover, you can save money on expensive cleaning products and extend the life of your clothes and carpets.
3. Cleaning windows and mirrors
When it comes to cleaning windows and mirrors, vinegar is a game-changer. Not only is it an inexpensive alternative to traditional window cleaners, but it’s also natural and non-toxic. Plus, it leaves surfaces streak-free and sparkling clean.
To get started, you’ll need a spray bottle, a microfiber cloth, and white vinegar. Simply mix equal parts of vinegar and water in the spray bottle and shake well. Spray the solution onto the window or mirror and use the microfiber cloth to wipe it clean. For particularly stubborn spots, you can use undiluted vinegar.
One of the benefits of using vinegar is that it’s a great deodorizer, so it will leave your windows and mirrors smelling fresh and clean. Plus, it’s a natural disinfectant, so it will kill any germs or bacteria on the surface.
Another great thing about using vinegar for window and mirror cleaning is that it’s environmentally friendly. Traditional window cleaners can be filled with harmful chemicals that are bad for both the environment and your health. By using vinegar, you can clean your home without contributing to pollution or exposing yourself to harmful toxins.
Overall, using vinegar to clean your windows and mirrors is an easy, affordable, and effective way to keep your home looking its best. Plus, it’s a great way to save money and reduce your environmental impact at the same time.
4. Cleaning and deodorizing the refrigerator
Vinegar is a versatile household item that can be used for cleaning and deodorizing the refrigerator. In addition to being an effective cleaning agent, vinegar is also a natural disinfectant that can help to remove stubborn stains and odors from your fridge.
To use vinegar for cleaning your fridge, start by removing all the items from the fridge and unplugging it. Then, mix equal parts of water and vinegar in a spray bottle and use it to clean the interior of the fridge, including the shelves and drawers. You can also use a cloth or sponge to scrub
away any stubborn stains or spills.
Once you’ve cleaned the fridge with the vinegar solution, rinse it thoroughly with water and dry with a clean cloth. The vinegar will help to deodorize the fridge, leaving it smelling fresh and clean.
For an extra boost of freshness, you can also leave a small dish of vinegar in the fridge to absorb any lingering odors. Simply place a small bowl or jar of vinegar on one of the shelves and leave it there for a few days. The vinegar will absorb any odors and leave your fridge smelling clean and fresh.
5. Cleaning the dishwasher and washing machine
Vinegar is not only a great natural cleaner for your kitchen, but it can also be used to clean your dishwasher and washing machine. Over time, these appliances can build up mineral deposits and soap scum, which can cause them to work less efficiently and develop unpleasant odors.
To clean your dishwasher, start by removing any food debris from the bottom of the machine. Then, place a cup of white vinegar in a dishwasher-safe container on the top rack of the machine and run a hot cycle. The vinegar will help to remove any built-up grime and leave your dishwasher smelling fresh.
For your washing machine, add two cups of white vinegar to the detergent dispenser and run a hot cycle. This will help to remove any mineral buildup and soap residue from the machine. For extra cleaning power, you can also add a half cup of baking soda to the drum of the washing machine before running the cycle.
By using vinegar to clean these appliances, not only will you save money on expensive cleaning products, but you’ll also extend the life of your appliances and keep them running efficiently.
6. Removing water stains from faucets and showerheads
Water stains from faucets and showerheads can be a real nuisance, and while they may seem impossible to remove, there is actually a simple and budget-friendly solution: vinegar!
To remove water stains from your faucets, start by soaking a cloth or paper towel in vinegar and wrapping it around the affected area. Leave it for a few hours or overnight, and then remove the cloth and wipe the area clean with a dry cloth or paper towel. This should lift off the stains and leave your faucet looking as good as new.
For showerheads, fill a plastic bag with vinegar and tie it around the showerhead, making sure that the head is fully submerged. Leave it for a few hours or overnight, and then remove the bag and wipe the showerhead clean with a cloth or paper towel. This should remove any build-up of limescale and leave your showerhead looking and working like new again.
By using vinegar to remove water stains from your faucets and showerheads, you can save money on expensive cleaning products and also reduce your use of harsh chemicals in your home. Plus, it’s an easy and effective way to keep your fixtures looking clean and shiny.
7. Keeping bugs away
One surprising household hack using vinegar is that it can be used to keep bugs away. Vinegar has a strong smell that can repel insects such as ants, mosquitoes, and fruit flies. Simply mix equal parts of vinegar and water, and transfer the mixture to a spray bottle. You can then spray the mixture around door frames, windowsills, and other areas where bugs may enter your home. This is a natural and eco-friendly way to keep bugs away without the need for harmful chemicals.
If you have a fruit fly problem, you can also use vinegar to create a trap. Fill a jar or bowl with apple cider vinegar and a drop of dish soap. The dish soap breaks the surface tension of the vinegar, causing fruit flies to sink and drown in the mixture. Place the jar or bowl in areas where you see fruit flies, and you’ll soon see a reduction in their numbers.
Using vinegar to keep bugs away is not only cost-effective but also a safe alternative to using harmful chemicals. Give it a try and see how well it works for you!
8. Removing wallpaper and adhesive
Vinegar is a versatile household item that can be used for a wide range of purposes beyond just cooking. One surprising use for vinegar is to remove wallpaper and adhesive. It’s a great solution for those who are looking for an affordable and eco-friendly alternative to harsh chemical products.
To use vinegar for removing wallpaper, mix equal parts of vinegar and hot water in a bucket. Then, use a sponge or spray bottle to apply the mixture to the wallpaper. Allow it to soak in for a few minutes, then use a scraper or putty knife to gently remove the wallpaper. The vinegar solution will help to loosen the adhesive and make it easier to remove the wallpaper without damaging the walls.
For stubborn adhesive residue, you can apply undiluted vinegar directly to the affected area and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, use a scraper or scrub brush to remove the adhesive. The acidic content in vinegar helps to dissolve the adhesive and make it easier to scrape away.
Overall, vinegar is an effective and affordable solution for removing wallpaper and adhesive, and it’s a great way to save money while also being environmentally friendly.
9. Unclogging drains
Vinegar is a wonder ingredient that can be used in many household cleaning hacks. One of the most useful ways to use vinegar is to unclog drains. Clogged drains can be a real hassle, and using harsh chemicals can be damaging to your pipes and the environment. Instead, try pouring a mixture of vinegar and baking soda down the drain. The chemical reaction between the two ingredients creates a foam that can help break down and dissolve any blockages.
After leaving the mixture to work its magic for a few minutes, flush the drain with hot water. This method is not only effective but also more eco-friendly and cost-effective than using store-bought drain cleaners. Plus, it’s a great way to repurpose vinegar that may have been sitting in your pantry unused. So, next time you have a clogged drain, reach for the vinegar and baking soda instead of harmful chemicals.
10. Conclusion: Saving money with vinegar household hacks