Why Not Just Drink It?
That is an appropriate question. People enjoy vodka from the early Middle Ages. It is known as one of the world’s most popular spirits. The high alcohol content and its versatility in mixing made it exceptionally popular in cocktails. Yet, it is still enjoyed “neat” in much of Eastern and Northern Europe. Back in time people used vodka for medical purposes. Druggists used to sell it for curing everything from colic to infertility. While not all of its curing abilities were true, it really does have a wide range of potential uses besides serving as a conversations ice-breaker.
It is normal to ask yourself why would you want to do anything else with vodka but drink it? Well, it is quite simple. It is widely available, effective and less toxic than many of the chemical alternatives you might find for these cleaning tasks.
#1. It is Perfect for Inexpensive Carpet Cleaning
Pet lovers are always worried about their carpets and that is not a surprise. If you have ever had dog urine, vomit or other lingering odour in your carpet, you know sometimes it can be hard to get it out. But vodka can rescue your carpet. Spot clean your stain as well as possible with a damp cloth. Then spray vodka on the spot and allow it to sit for 10 minutes. You can use an old toothbrush or cloth to scrub the soiled area, and blot dry with paper towels.
#2. You Can Clean Any Glass Surface
A vodka dilution can be a great window-cleaning solution. Give all of the glass surfaces in your home (windows, mirrors, glass coffee tables) a spotless shine. Use a spray bottle to combine vodka and water and spray the glass surface. Wipe the glass with a bunched up newspaper and watch all fingerprint smudges and other stains disappear to a streak-free gleam.
#3. It Fights the Odours
If you’re struggling with odours but don’t have baking soda on hand, vodka might just be the solution. For stinky clothes or other textiles, just spray some vodka and let it air dry. Alcohol is an antiseptic that destroys odour-causing bacteria. It dries out the moisture that allows these organisms to thrive, leaving your clothes smelling clean.
#4. It Removes Mould and Mildew
Homeowners will have to deal with a mould problem at some point. Treating it can be tricky, particularly if you wish to avoid using harsh chemical cleaners. Again, you will need a spray bottle. After filling it with straight vodka, spray it directly onto the affected area with mould or mildew. Wait for 15 to 30 minutes, then wipe the mould using a soft cleaning cloth or a soft toothbrush.
#5. You Can Renew Your Jewellery
A few drops of vodka will clean any kind of jewellery with crystalline gemstones. Just pour some vodka in a dish, take a ring, for example, and swish it back and forth. Dry it off and it will give a beautiful sheen. If this is not enough, put it in and let it soak a while and then scrub with a toothbrush. Avoid getting alcohol on any gemstone that’s not a crystal.