Whether you’ve resolved to lay off the libations in January (Anyone out there giving Drynuary a try this year?), have just a few drops left in a bottle, or are stuck with bottom-shelf booze after a big bash, we’ve got some great alternatives to pouring the party down the drain—clean with it!
While most friends are extra considerate about bringing over the best during the holiday season, there always seems to be that one bottle of totally disgusting, bottom-shelf liquor that takes up residence on the bar cart. You have no idea who brought it, and somehow it’s half empty. You would never drink it, and wouldn’t be caught dead serving it to guests —so what’s a discerning bar keep to do?
Make Linen Spray. Freshen up your room with a signature scent! Mix vodka with your favorite essential oils. See the tutorial here.
Make a room diffuser. Mix vodka, essential oils, mineral oil, and water. Place in a fun container with reeds or paper straws and voila! Super affordable room diffusers! See the tutorial here .
De-stink mildewy clothing. Add 1/2 cup vodka to your regular wash and it will remove the smell! This is an especially great tip for super musty kitchen towels.
Disinfect your mattress. This is great to do in the summertime when we tend to sweat more. Just pour a few ounces of vodka into a spray bottle and go at it. Let the mattress dry completely before making the bed.
Deodorize. Add vodka to a spray bottle and spritz wherever it needs spritizin’! Gym shoes? But of course! Feel free to add a little essential oil for added freshness.
Remove sticky labels. Save your nails! Dab some vodka onto a sticky area with a cotton swab and watch how easily the tag slides off.
Shine chrome. No chrome polish? No problem! Spray vodka directly on to chrome, dry, and buff with a lint free towel for a beautiful finish.
Clean glass. Spray vodka directly onto the glass and wipe for a streak-free shine.
Wash away soap scum. Spray vodka directly on affected area, let sit for 10 minutes, then rinse away.
Clean your jewelry. Soak your chain or ring in a shallow vodka bath for 15-20 minutes then wipe with a clean cloth. Not recommended for jewelry with gems or stones.
More great tips and tutorials: Cleaning Basics