5 Unusual Uses for Vodka

People have been drinking vodka since the early Middle Ages. Known as one of the world’s most popular spirits can be enjoyed many different ways. It has the versatility of mixing with almost any type of soda, juice, or infusion and is still widely enjoyed Neat in much of Eastern and Northern Europe.

Why would you want to do anything else with vodka but drink it? It is widely available, effective and and less toxic than many of the chemical alternatives you might use for these tasks.

Treat Poison Ivy

For many, one of the hazards of enjoying the great outdoors is an encounter with poison ivy, oak or sumac. It can lead to a nasty, long-lasting rash. Unfortunately, poison ivy is spreading, thanks to global warming.

To avoid the uncomfortable reaction, immediately pour vodka on skin that has come into contact with poison ivy, and the alcohol will wash away the itchy culprit, urushiol oil. Some have said that the vodka needs to be at least 100 proof to work.

Others have argued that straight rubbing alcohol works better, but we’re guessing you may not have that as handy if you are on your average picnic.

Freshen Laundry

The only people I know who like doing laundry have OCD. If you find the task calming, that’s great. But the rest of us would prefer to wear clothes as much as possible without having to count quarters or lug baskets up and down stairs.

You can keep your clothes smelling fresher with vodka — really! Simply spritz your duds with the stuff, then hang to dry in a well-ventilated area. (Do a spot-test first to be safe.)

Shine Your Fixtures

Vodka kills odor-causing bacteria, but doesn’t leave a scent when dry.

It’s easy to get your chrome, glass and porcelain fixtures shining like the top of the Chrysler Building. Guess what does the trick?

Moisten a soft, clean cloth with vodka, then apply a little elbow grease.

Preserve Flowers

If vodka can help you find love, then it can also help you preserve it — or at least the symbols of it.

Add a few drops of vodka and a teaspoon of sugar to the water in your flower vase. It should help keep your flowers fresh longer. Change out the mixture with fresh ingredients daily.

Get Great, Shiny Hair

Vodka doesn’t just make you think people look prettier. It actually can make people prettier. How?

Try this remedy for healthier, lush hair: Add a jigger of vodka to a 12-ounce bottle of shampoo.

Tell Billy Madison that vodka is better than both shampoo and conditioner.

Source: The Daily Green