Before starting this tip make sure that the stove and/or fireplace has cooled completely and is “dust and rust free by cleaning thoroughly with a cloth or brush dipped in white distilled vinegar.” After the stove has been wiped down “create a creamy paste using black lead and white distilled vinegar. Apply to all metal areas. Buff to a shine with a stiff brush and a soft cloth.” Before you know it your stove/fireplace will be shining like new!
#2 Getting rid of rust
To get rid of rust on your outdoor tools, bolts, or other metal items, simply “soak them in full strength white vinegar.” Depending on how rusty they are, will determine the length of time they need to be soaked. If they are super rusty let them soak for a couple of days. After removing them from the white vinegar rinse them with water and dry them off with an old rag {to prevent any left over rust from getting on your nice towels}.
“A ‘cloudy’ appearance on varnished wood can be removed easily. [Rub] the surface with a cloth moistened with a solution of 1 TBS white vinegar and 1 liter warm water. [Make sure] there is no excess moisture on the cloth by wringing it out thoroughly before use, and then complete the job by drying the surface with a soft cloth.” This is a great tip for cleaning up all those old dressers and tables you find at garage sales and thrift stores!
#4 Wallpaper removal
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The dreaded task of removing wallpaper can be made easier by using a little vinegar! “Spray white vinegar directly onto the surface of the wallpaper and [let it set] for a few minutes, then try removing the paper with a scraper. If [the wallpaper doesn’t budge] try scoring the paper then spray again.” Once you have removed the wall paper spray the wall again and use the scraper to remove any excess glue. “Wipe remaining glue off with vinegar and [then] rinse with water. I love this tip! I wish I had known it last year when I was trying to get all the old shelf liner out of my cabinets. Once again vinegar to the rescue!
This series is based on a book I received from my mom at Christmas. All items in quotations are referenced from Vinegar: 1001 Practical Household Uses.
