12 Unconventional Uses For Vodka Other Than Drinking

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Though it's rarely referred to as a problem-solver, vodka can be a solution to countless household challenges. Composed mainly of water and ethanol (via Wired) and distilled multiple times to remove impurities, the clear spirit is best enjoyed "neat." But because of its subtle flavor and ability to easily take on the character of a drink, it mixes well with almost anything and vodka is the key ingredient of classic cocktails, including the Moscow mule and martini.

Yet beyond being a vehicle for intoxication, vodka can also be used to keep bugs at bay, banish mold and mildew, remove stains, ease the itch of a jellyfish sting, and so much more. Even if you're not drinking it, there's a good reason to keep it on hand. Grab a bottle of vodka from the liquor cabinet (or the pile of cleaning supplies under the kitchen sink) and harness its unconventional power with these unconventional uses for vodka other than drinking.

Why buy vanilla extract when you can easily make your own? Homemade vanilla extract boasts more flavor than store-bought vanilla extract (many of which contain artificial vanilla flavoring as opposed to natural vanilla beans) and lasts for months so long as it's stored in a cool, dry place. Making your own vanilla extract requires only two ingredients: vanilla beans and vodka. Vodka, with its subtle flavor, makes for the best spirit choice. 

Grade A beans can easily be found on Amazon or at local food specialty stores. When it comes to the vodka, don't settle for the cheap stuff — opt for a bottle you would want to drink on its own. DIY vanilla extract in a glass jar tied with a ribbon also makes for a sweet holiday gift or housewarming present. Just remember that you'll need to set aside at least a month to ensure that the vodka has taken on the full flavor of the immersed vanilla beans.

When was the last time you could see the sun shining through your sparkling windows? Skip the store-bought glass cleaners and make your own eco-friendly, non-toxic spray glass cleaner with vodka. DIY Natural's recipe for homemade glass cleaning spray calls for three simple ingredients you probably already have on hand: 1 cup high-proof vodka, ¼ cup white vinegar, and water. If you're faced with truly dirty surfaces, add a ½ teaspoon of liquid soap. Combine the vodka and white vinegar in a bucket, add enough water to make ½ gallon, add optional liquid soap, and stir. Pour your homemade glass cleaner into a spray bottle with a tight-fitting lid, and be sure to label it. 

Beyond cleaning windows, you can also use this natural glass cleaning spray to clean mirrors, countertops, and glass-topped tables. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe, and avoid cleaning windows when the sun is shining on them, as streaks may remain on the warm glass after drying.

Got bad breath? On the go? Head to the nearest bar and take a shot of vodka STAT. With its high alcohol content, the alcohol content in vodka kills the bacteria inside your mouth that causes bad breath (via The Conversation). Even Mythbusters tested vodka's effectiveness as a bad breath-fighting mouthwash and proved that it works! Swirl it around in your mouth for a few seconds, gargle, and unlike regular mouthwash, you can either swallow or spit it out once it's banished stinky mouth bacteria. You can even add a bit of flavor to the vodka by infusing it with a cinnamon stick or a few sprigs of mint. 

Keep in mind that vodka mouthwash is best used in a pinch since it can dry out the mucosa in your mouth and thus cause dry mouth, which can increase your risk of cavities. Also keep in mind that if you have restorative work, alcohol-based mouthwashes can damage composite restorations (via BioMed Research International).

During the Covid-19 pandemic, when hand sanitizer suddenly was in short supply nationwide, distilleries across the United States switched from making spirits to hand sanitizer (via Distilled Spirits Council of the United States). The CDC notes that washing your hands with soap and water is still the best way to remove germs, but if you're on the go, hand sanitizer will do the trick. Make your own using vodka, a natural disinfectant, with this recipe for safe, non-toxic spray and gel hand sanitizer (via A Life Adjacent). 

According to the CDC, an effective hand sanitizer contains at least 60% alcohol, so remember to use high-proof vodka. To keep your hands from drying out, you'll also need to add a moisturizing agent such as vegetable glycerin or aloe vera gel. You can also add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to give your hand sanitizer a signature scent. Store in a glass spray bottle to keep it eco-friendly.

Has your hair lost its shine? Head to your liquor cabinet, and banish dull hair with vodka. Yes, you read that right: Thanks to its low pH levels and minimal acidity, vodka can help banish frizz and bring on the shine by sealing hair cuticles and protecting the deeper layers of the hair follicle. Rumor also has it that vodka can promote hair growth (via Thrillist). New Beauty recommends adding a shot of vodka to the bottle of your everyday shampoo and conditioner to increase shininess and eliminate toxins. 

Alternatively, you can make your detoxifying hair rinse and prevent product build-up by adding a tablespoon of vodka to a cup of water and rinsing your hair with the formula post-shampoo. You also might want to pour yourself a shot first, or at least whip up a quick cocktail, to celebrate the fact that you no longer need to spend money on expensive hair treatments at the salon.

Here's a vodka hack that can help you in an emergency commonly encountered while hiking, camping, swimming, or surfing: If you've ever brushed up against poison ivy on a hike or been stung by a jellyfish while swimming in the ocean, you know the pain of the post-encounter itch and sting. Hopefully, you packed a bottle of vodka in your backpack or beach bag: vodka can help ease itching or stinging. 

Mythbusters tested vodka's effectiveness and proved that while it isn't a cure-all, it is a quick and easy way to lessen the sting and itch. However, per Malta Today, alcohol in vodka stops sting cells from releasing their toxin. When it comes to poison ivy, vodka's alcohol content washes away urushiol oil, which causes the itch (via HuffPost). Pour some vodka over the rash or location of the sting and let it work its alcohol-powered magic. Vodka is also a natural disinfectant, making it a good choice for eliminating bacteria in a scratch or open wound in a pinch.