Versatile uses for vodka

Southerners do enjoy their “Bloody Marys!” However, the vodka in that beverage has many other surprisingly versatile uses. Vodka, the drink known as “the life of the party,” can also be a “lifesaver” if you know about its many other applications. Because vodka is basically a mixture of water and pure alcohol, it’s non-toxic. That’s but one of the reasons it’s such a good choice as a tough household cleaner as well as a pesticide. It’s a great alternative to harsh chemicals. If you’re tired of too much left-over gunk on your car from old bumper stickers, vodka is a terrific adhesive remover. Using a clean cloth soaked with vodka, easily rub the affected areas. The glue residue left behind will be gone. (This also works on sticky areas left from labels.) Vodka is effective at abolishing odors. Using a small spray bottle, spritz any area with a mixture of one part vodka to three parts water. It not only refreshes the air, it also leaves no scent once it’s dry. Vodka preserves fresh flowers. All plants produce ethylene, a gas that promotes growth, ripening, and maturation. However, vodka inhibits its production. Take store-bought flowers and diagonally snip approximately one inch off the bottom of each stem. Stir together two teaspoons of vodka and one teaspoon of sugar, adding it to the water in the vase. Repeating this every few days, your bouquet will stay fresher longer. In kitchens and bathrooms, vodka kills mold, mildew, and obliterates soap scum. Apply it with a spray bottle to calk and grout. After letting it sit for about 30 minutes, take a tile/grout brush and scrub the area with it. (An old toothbrush or a nylon scouring pad works just as well.) After that, rinse completely. For cleaning bathroom or kitchen tiles, spray the vodka and let it sit for 5 – 10 minutes. Then wash the area clean. With these uses for vodka (and others which will immediately follow), it’s a cost-effective way to tackle some household chores. It's good news for seniors and others who watch budgets. One trip to the liquor department takes care of leisure enjoyment as well as in-home projects.