Do you know those unsuspecting bottles of clear vinegar that take up the majority of shelf space in the grocery store? That is distilled white vinegar, which you should stockpile in your pantry. Distilled white vinegar is created by oxygenating grain alcohol similar to vodka, causing bacteria to grow and acetic acid to form. These acids are what gives vinegar its sour flavor. Vinegar can be made from any type of alcohol—wine, cider, or beer—but grain alcohol imparts the neutral flavor to distilled white vinegar.
Organic White Distilled Vinegar has a stronger flavor than most, but it contains approximately 5% acetic acid (about the same as other vinegar used in cooking), making it completely safe to consume. Now, this is not to be confused with basic white vinegar, which is stronger and contains up to 25% acetic acid. That vinegar is sold solely for cleaning purposes and is not recommended for consumption.
Apart from cooking, distilled white vinegar can be used for a variety of household tasks. While it may seem strange that the same ingredient can be used to clean your shower head and flavor a barbecue sauce, it is inexpensive to purchase, environmentally friendly, and incredibly versatile. If you're still not convinced, here are 15 creative ways to use that gallon-size jug of vinegar in your cooking and around the house.
How to Use White Vinegar Distilled Around the House
All-Purpose Cleaner: Combine 1 cup distilled white vinegar and 3 cups water in a spray bottle and use it on everything. This solution is excellent for streak-free windows, stovetops, and tiles, among other things. Check thoroughly before using on wood floors. Additionally, if you have a pet, use this mixture to spot clean your carpeting—the vinegar sanitizes and masks the odor of urine, preventing your dog or cat from returning to the area.
Relieve Sunburn Pain: Soak a washcloth in a 50/50 solution of distilled white vinegar and water and dab on a sunburn, or add 2 cups to your bathwater.
Clean Your Coffee Maker: Fill the water reservoir of your coffee maker with distilled white vinegar and run it through a brewing cycle to dissolve minerals and oily build-up. Fill the carafe to the brim. Rinse with water and repeat the brewing cycle to remove any remaining vinegar. (As is customary, adhere to the manufacturer's care instructions.)
Fresh Flowers: To prolong the life of your flowers, add a few tablespoons of Organic White Distilled Vinegar to the water. Dump the water when it becomes cloudy and repeat.
Clean Your Microwave: To remove any odors or cooked-on food, combine 14 cups of distilled white vinegar and 1 cup of water in a microwave-safe cup. On high, microwave until the mixture comes to a boil and steam begins to form on the window. Let it be cool slightly before wiping away any remaining food residue.
Polish Copper, Pewter, and Brass: To remove tarnish from copper, pewter, and brass, combine 12 cups of distilled white vinegar, 1 teaspoon salt, and enough flour to make a paste in a small bowl. Rub the metal and leave it for 15 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with clear water and buff with a soft, dry cloth.
Freshen Up a Stinky Sink Drain: Pour 1 cup of distilled white vinegar down the drain once a week to keep kitchen drains fresh. Allow 30 minutes before rinsing with cold water.
Ensure That Butcher Block Countertops Are Clean: Butcher block countertops are difficult to clean because they cannot be thrown in the sink! To sanitize and refresh the wood, scrub it with straight distilled white vinegar (this would also be a great use for that scented vinegar).