If someone told you that a bottle of vodka could solve most everyday cleaning problems, you'd probably ask them if they'd poured too much. But surprisingly, vodka is the miracle elixir that cleaning professionals regularly use to remove stains, eliminate odors, clean glass, and even kill mold. And the best part? It does all of this without leaving behind a chemical smell or damaging delicate surfaces.
Due to its natural disinfectant and degreasing properties, vodka more than just a social drink – it’s a secret weapon in the world of natural cleaning. No dyes, no artificial fragrances, and no harsh chemicals to blur your vision (literally this time). So if you have a bottle of vodka left over from your last party – or you’re just not a fan of “vodka tonic” anymore – it’s time to find it a shiny new purpose.
Why does vodka even work for cleaning?
Vodka isn’t just magical because it makes parties interesting – it’s actually an incredibly simple yet effective chemical compound. It’s made from water and ethanol (usually around 40% alcohol), with no additives, dyes or flavourings, making it the ideal “clean” agent. Ethanol acts as a solvent, meaning it breaks down oils, greases, adhesives and even bacterial membranes. It also evaporates quickly, leaving no residue or smell – perfect for surfaces where you don’t want any chemical residue. And because vodka is much less aggressive than industrial cleaners, it’s great for everyday use around the home – and it smells even better than bleach, hands down.
1. Removing stubborn stickers and adhesives
Vodka contains ethanol, which effectively breaks down most adhesive compounds, especially those found on labels on glass jars, plastic boxes, and ceramic products. Soak a soft cloth in vodka, press it on the label for a minute or two, then wipe it off – no rubbing, no residue. More gentle than acetone dissolving and less aggressive than specialized cleaners.
2. Disinfecting and refreshing footwear
Unpleasant odors in sports shoes are most often caused by bacteria and moisture that accumulates after prolonged use. Vodka acts as a natural antibacterial agent - simply spray it inside the shoes, let it dry overnight, and in the morning you will have a fresh pair. Don't worry, the material will not be damaged, as the vodka evaporates quickly and leaves no stains behind.
3. Shiny glass and mirrors
While vinegar is considered a classic household cleaner, it often dries too quickly in humid environments (e.g. bathrooms) and leaves streaks. Vodka, on the other hand, evaporates more slowly and evenly, meaning fewer stains and a better end result. Mix equal parts vodka and distilled water in a spray bottle, spray on glass surfaces, and wipe with a microfiber cloth. The result? A professional shine without the effort.
4. Jewelry cleaning
Vodka is great for removing grease and grime from harder stones like diamonds, sapphires, and rubies. Soak your jewelry in vodka for a few minutes, then scrub it with a soft toothbrush and rinse with water. Important note: This method is not suitable for softer stones like opals, pearls, or amber – use specialized products for those.
5. Restore shine to metal surfaces
Vodka is gentle on surfaces but tough on stains. Apply a little vodka to a cloth and wipe down chrome fittings, metal handles or stainless steel appliances. It will remove limescale, grease and fingerprints – without leaving any marks or scratches. For appliances with special coatings (e.g. brushed stainless steel or painted surfaces), always test in an inconspicuous area first.
6. Fight against mold and moisture
Vodka is a natural fungicide, meaning it's effective at killing mold on non-porous surfaces like tile, glass, or plastic. Use it undiluted—spray the mold, wait 10 minutes, then scrub with a brush or sponge. Unlike bleach, it won't damage surfaces and doesn't have irritating fumes, making it ideal for regular bathroom maintenance.
Vodka – more than just a liquid mood booster
With a little imagination and a dash of scientific knowledge, vodka becomes incredible all-purpose cleaner, which outperforms many commercial alternatives. It's safe, effective, and – let's face it – a lot more fun than another trip to the cleaning store.
