More versatile uses for vodka

Vodka has been very popular for a long time. In the South, a “Vodka Tonic” is requested almost as much as Jim Beam. Did you know when you buy vodka, you’re getting a versatile liquid that provides several more benefits? Vodka is an effective cleaner. It works wonders on glass, chrome, and jewelry. Furthermore, it makes eyeglasses, dull bathroom fixtures, chandeliers and windowpanes look new. It also brings more sparkle to some gemstones. (Use it only on crystals, such as diamonds. Do not try it on porous objects like pearls or opals.) To clean eyeglasses, dip a clean, lint-free cloth in vodka and gently rub both sides of each lens. For windowpanes, mix one cup of water and one teaspoon of vodka in a spray bottle. Spray windows, then wipe clean with a micro fiber cloth or lint-free paper towel. Chrome shines when wiped with a clean, soft cloth soaked in vodka. If you’d like to clean jewelry, pour one-fourth cup of vodka in a shallow drinking glass or bowl. Gently drop the jewelry into it. After allowing it to soak five to ten minutes, remove the pieces, rinse and dry. You’ll be surprised how it sparkles. Vodka is excellent for three of the most persistent fabric stains: lipstick, ink, and grass. Blot lipstick and rub out ink and grass stains with a clean cloth dipped in vodka. Remember to wash normally or rinse thoroughly after removing the soils. Outside the house, vodka is as an all-natural pesticide and a chemical-free week-killer. Permanently remove aphids (plant lice) by mixing together four cups of water, four teaspoons of dish-washing liquid, and four teaspoons of vodka in a large spray bottle. Shake well and spray all areas where you see infestations. For weeds, mix one ounce of vodka, several drops of liquid dish soap, and two cups of water. When it's sunny, spray generously only those growing in direct sunlight. The sun’s heat helps the vodka’s alcohol break down the waxy coverings on the weeds, causing them to dehydrate and dry out. Those in indirect sunlight are not as successfully eradicated. With all the newly found uses for vodka, it’s easy to see why it’s an economical purchase. Bottoms up! And let the cleaning begin!