15 Household Uses For Vodka (Besides Drinking)

Vodka, a staple in many liquor cabinets, often finds its way into cocktails or as a base for mixed drinks. However, what if we told you that this clear, potent spirit could do more than just add a kick to your beverages? While it might not be the top-shelf variety, even the cheapest vodka can serve a multitude of purposes around the house.

15 Household Uses For Vodka

From skincare to cleaning solutions, the versatility of vodka extends far beyond the bar counter. Let’s explore some unexpected household uses for vodka that might just change the way you view this popular spirit.

1. Astringent for Skin Care

Vodka’s antiseptic properties make it an excellent astringent for cleansing the skin and tightening pores. Simply dab a cotton ball soaked in vodka onto your face to remove dirt, oil, and impurities, leaving your skin feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

2. Scalp Cleanser and Hair Growth Stimulant

Revitalize your hair and scalp by adding a splash of vodka to your regular shampoo. Vodka helps to cleanse the scalp, removing toxins and buildup that can inhibit hair growth. Additionally, it acts as a natural conditioner, leaving your locks shiny and healthy.

3. Pest Control

Say goodbye to pesky bees and wasps with the help of vodka. A spray bottle filled with vodka can effectively eliminate bee hives or wasp nests when sprayed directly onto the insects. The alcohol content in vodka quickly immobilizes the pests, making it easier to remove or eradicate them from your property. On the other hand, if you are beekeeper, we do not recommend this as it may harm or even kill the honey bees. 

4. Earache Relief

Save a trip to the doctor by finding relief from an earache by reaching for a bottle of vodka. A few drops of vodka placed in the affected ear can help alleviate pain and discomfort. Allow the vodka to sit for a few minutes before draining, providing soothing relief from earaches.

5. Bandage Adhesive Remover

Removing bandages can be a painful experience, especially when adhesive residue is left behind. Fortunately, vodka can come to the rescue. Apply a small amount of vodka to the adhesive residue and allow it to sit for a few minutes. The alcohol in vodka helps to dissolve the adhesive, making it easier to remove without causing irritation to the skin.

6. Mold and Mildew Cleaner

Banish mold and mildew from your bathroom caulking with the help of vodka. Simply spray vodka directly onto the affected areas and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, scrub the area with a brush or sponge to remove the mold and mildew stains. The alcohol in vodka acts as a disinfectant, killing mold spores and preventing regrowth.

7. Eyeglass Cleaner

Keep your eyeglasses sparkling clean with a little help from vodka. Spray a small amount of vodka onto a microfiber cloth and gently wipe your glasses to remove dirt, oil, and smudges. The alcohol evaporates quickly, leaving your lenses crystal clear and streak-free.

8. Fabric Freshener

Mix vodka with water and a few drops of essential oil to create a homemade fabric freshener spray. Lightly mist clothing, upholstery, or curtains to eliminate odors and leave behind a subtle, clean scent.

I just read a tip from a successful Poshmark seller that buys items from abandoned storage units to resell. She has a spray bottle filled with vodka that she uses to spray on clothing if they smell musty or smoky.

9. Jewelry Cleaner

Soak tarnished jewelry in a vodka solution to restore its shine. The alcohol helps dissolve dirt and grime, leaving your jewelry sparkling like new. For best results, soak the jewelry for a few minutes before gently scrubbing with a soft brush and rinsing with water. And if you have expensive jewelry, consider buying jewelry insurance to protect your investment. 

10. Fruit and Vegetable Wash

Remove pesticides and bacteria from fruits and vegetables by soaking them in a solution of vodka and water. The alcohol helps to kill germs and remove residue, ensuring that your produce is clean and safe to eat. Rinse thoroughly with water before consuming.

11. Room Deodorizer

Create a DIY air freshener by mixing vodka with your favorite essential oils in a spray bottle. Use it to neutralize odors in the air or on upholstery, carpets, and rugs. The alcohol in vodka helps to eliminate odors without leaving behind a heavy perfume scent.

12. Stain Remover

Tackle tough stains on clothing or upholstery with the help of vodka. Blot the stain with a cloth soaked in vodka to help lift the stain before laundering as usual. Vodka is particularly effective on stains like ink, grass, and grease.

13. Flower Preservative

Extend the life of freshly cut flowers by adding a few drops of vodka to the vase water. The alcohol helps to inhibit bacterial growth and keep the water clean, allowing your flowers to stay fresh and vibrant for longer.

14. Antiseptic for Minor Cuts and Scrapes

Use vodka as a makeshift antiseptic for cleaning minor cuts and scrapes. Apply a small amount of vodka to the affected area to help disinfect the wound and prevent infection. It may sting a bit, but vodka’s antiseptic properties can help promote healing.

15. Grease Cutter

Remove stubborn grease and grime from kitchen surfaces by spraying them with vodka and wiping clean with a sponge or cloth. The alcohol helps to break down grease and lift it away, leaving surfaces clean and shiny.

Use for Vodka Conclusion

While vodka may be best known for its role in cocktails and mixed drinks (Screwdriver or Bloody Mary anyone?), its usefulness extends far beyond the bar. From skincare to household cleaning, vodka’s antiseptic properties make it a valuable asset in any home. So, the next time you reach for a bottle of vodka, consider these surprising household uses that might just change the way you look at this versatile spirit.

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