11 Unusual Yet Highly Practical Vinegar Uses You Never Knew

Vinegar is known for its versatility and has a long history of uses in various contexts, including cooking, household cleaning, and even therapeutic purposes. It has been used since 5000 B.C. as a cleaning agent. Here are some of the ways vinegar can be used:

1. Remove Stickers: Vinegar is effective at removing stickers and adhesive residue from various surfaces, especially from cars. Simply spray vinegar on the sticker and let it sit for a few hours; the sticker will come off more easily.
2. Dissuade Cats from Scratching Furniture: Mixing equal parts of vinegar and water can create a natural cat repellent. Spraying this solution on areas where cats tend to scratch furniture can deter them from approaching.
3. Natural Baby Wipes: You can create natural baby wipes using a combination of ingredients, including boiled water, aloe vera juice, witch hazel extract, white vinegar, olive oil, and Castile soap. These wipes are gentle on a baby’s skin.
4. Add Vinegar to a Warm Bath: Vinegar can be added to a warm bath to help disinfect the body and can be beneficial for certain conditions like yeast infections. The acidity of vinegar can help reduce excess uric acid in the body.
5. Natural Weed Killer: Thanks to the acetic acid it contains, vinegar can be used as a natural weed killer to eliminate many unwanted plants. Simply spray it directly on the plants you want to remove.
6. Extend Flower Life: Adding a bit of vinegar to flower water can lower its pH, thus extending the life of the flowers and reducing the presence of microbes in the water.
7. Clean Electronic Devices: White vinegar can be used to clean computers, printers, and other electronic devices. Make sure the device is turned off, then use a cloth soaked in a solution of water and vinegar to clean the surfaces. Be careful not to let any drops get inside the device.
8. Clean Blinds: Cleaning blinds effectively can be challenging, but vinegar can be effective in this regard. Dip your fingers in a solution of warm water and vinegar and run them between the slats of the blinds. Rinse your fingers in a container of water between each blind.
9. Remove Water Stains from Furniture: Mix equal parts of white vinegar and olive oil, then use a cloth soaked in this mixture to remove water stains from wooden furniture.
10. Remove Carpet Stains: For lighter carpet stains, you can rub a mixture of salt and vinegar on the stain and then vacuum it once dry. For darker or larger stains, you can use a mixture of salt, borax, and vinegar before vacuuming.
11. Clean Laundry: Using white vinegar in your laundry can help remove stains, brighten colors, and leave a fresh scent on your clothes. Replace fabric softener with white vinegar.

Vinegar is a natural and versatile product that can be a valuable resource in many situations. However, it’s important to exercise caution and always test in small areas, especially on delicate surfaces, as vinegar is acidic and may cause damage.