11 top vinegar hacks for the home and garden & how each hack actually works
Georgia Lynn
Contributing Writer
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Vinegar, a humble household staple, boasts a plethora of uses beyond its culinary applications. From cleaning to gardening, its versatility can help simplify chores and enhance the health of your home and garden. With its nontoxic nature and cost-efficiency, vinegar has cemented its place as an essential item in every household.
Intrigued by the myriad of ways you can use vinegar? This article unravels some of the best vinegar hacks that are both practical and ingenious. Read on to discover how this everyday item can transform your cleaning routines and gardening practices, making life just a little bit easier and greener.
1. Weed Control
Vinegar can effectively kill weeds, thanks to its high acetic acid content, which burns and ultimately destroys plant cells. Applying a solution of vinegar directly onto weeds between cracks on sidewalks or in garden beds can help control unwanted vegetation. It’s most effective under full sun and in areas where regrowth is not an issue since it can affect the soil pH.
2. Natural Cleaning Agent
Vinegar is a fantastic natural cleaner due to its acidity, which breaks down dirt, grease, and grime. A solution of equal parts water and vinegar can clean glass, countertops, and even floors without the harsh chemicals found in many commercial products. Its natural antibacterial properties make it suitable for sanitizing surfaces too.
3. Descaling Appliances
The acidic nature of vinegar makes it perfect for removing limescale build-up in appliances like kettles, coffee makers, and dishwashers. Fill the appliance with a mixture of half vinegar and half water, run it through a cycle, then rinse thoroughly to prevent vinegar smells.
4. Fabric Softener
Vinegar can act as a natural fabric softener by breaking down laundry detergent residues, which can cling to clothes and make them feel stiff. Adding half a cup of vinegar to the rinse cycle of your washing machine can leave fabrics feeling soft and fresh.
5. Eliminating Odors
