Using Vinegar around Home and Garden

In the kitchen, vinegar can be added to boiling eggs to make peels easier to remove, combined with baking soda to unclog or clean a sink drain, added to brine for making pickles, and as an additive for softening water in the dishwasher. White vinegar is one of the most versatile natural liquids around, and its uses range from cleaning to salad dressing to killing bugs. Made from fermented ethanol alcohol, vinegar has been used for more than ten thousand years for a variety of applications inside and outside the home.

As a cleaning agent, vinegar really knows no equal. The highly acidic solution removes rust easily, makes windows sparkle, eliminates stains in carpet and leather, and even helps a sore throat when gargled. Bathroom tubs, sinks, and floors benefit from the disinfecting power of vinegar, and you can even use it to whiten your teeth!

In the laundry, vinegar softens towels and clothing, removes unpleasant odors like mildew and smoke, and brightens dingy fabric. It also keeps colors from running and can keep your washing machine and dryer lint-free.

Using vinegar in the garden has distinct advantages, as well. It is a fantastic herbicide and effectively repels ants, gnats, and fruit flies. White vinegar also helps to germinate seeds and cleans patio furniture.