Vodka is distilled, high-proof ethyl alcohol produced from fermented potatoes or grain. The alcohol content in vodka is usually around 40%. The high alcohol content makes vodka an effective bactericide.

Vodka is colourless and has relatively little smell, which is why it is more popular as a disinfectant than other types of schnapps such as whisky.

In fact, vodka is not only effective at killing bacteria, it is also more environmentally friendly than most commercially available household disinfectants.

Vodka is used in the home to clean surfaces, wash clothes, purify the air and treat wounds.

Vodka as a household cleaner: Mix vodka and water in a ratio of 1:4. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and spray onto smooth surfaces in the kitchen or bathroom and rub with a cloth. The alcohol content not only kills bacteria, but also ensures that the surfaces dry quickly, which is why the vodka mixture is also suitable for mopping floors. As vodka does not contain any chemicals, it can even be used to disinfect children's toys. Undiluted vodka can be used in areas prone to mould. Razor blades can be soaked in vodka after use. The vodka disinfects them and prevents rusting.

Vodka when doing the laundry: Vodka disinfects and refreshes clothes and kills odour-causing bacteria. Spray undiluted vodka on freshly washed or worn clothes and hang them up to dry and air. Once the vodka has dried, it will no longer smell. Vodka can also be put directly into the washing machine to disinfect the laundry. Vodka is also particularly suitable for removing stains from coloured laundry, as it acts as a mild bleaching agent without fading colours. Put a capful of vodka in the detergent compartment or soak clothes in water with vodka before washing.

Vodka as an air freshener: Vodka is a good alternative to conventional air fresheners. Ordinary air fresheners mask odours with an intense perfume note. Vodka kills odour-causing bacteria without leaving its own aroma in the air. Mix vodka and water in a ratio of 1:3 and pour into a spray bottle. If desired, the mixture can be enriched with citric acid. Spray the mixture into rooms or onto upholstered furniture to eliminate odours. Vodka can be used on upholstery, fabrics and carpets without hesitation.

Vodka for wound treatment: As a general rule, alcohol should never be used directly on open wounds, as alcohol not only kills wound bacteria but also open tissue. However, vodka can be used in situations where no other wound disinfectant is available to clean the wound of dirt and prevent inflammation. Vodka can be used as a disinfectant for objects that come into contact with open wounds.