Mixing vinegar and cloves creates a powerful, all-natural cleaning concentrate that outperforms many chemical sprays. While white vinegar is famous for killing mold and cutting through grease, cloves contain a high concentration of eugenol, which is a natural disinfectant and powerful insect repellent.
When you combine them, the vinegar “pulls” the dark, antiseptic oils out of the cloves. This creates a liquid that not only cleans surfaces until they shine but also leaves behind a protective barrier that keeps ants, flies, and spiders away for days. It is the perfect solution for anyone who wants a “fresh” home without the harsh smell of bleach.
Why This Mix Exceeds All Expectations
- Kills Bacteria and Mold: The acetic acid in vinegar and the eugenol in cloves work together to destroy 99% of surface germs.
- Invisible Pest Barrier: Most household insects hate the smell of cloves. Wiping your counters with this ensures they won’t want to crawl near your food.
- Removes “Deep” Odors: Unlike air fresheners that just hide smells, this mix breaks down the bacteria that cause odors in trash cans and bathrooms.
- Safe for the Whole Family: It is 100% non-toxic, making it safe to use in the kitchen or around pets and children.
Recipe: The Ultimate Clove and Vinegar Cleaner
This recipe produces a beautiful dark amber liquid that smells like a spicy, clean forest.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of White Vinegar
- 2 tablespoons of Whole Cloves
- 1 Cinnamon Stick (Optional, for an even better scent)
- 1 cup of Water (To be added later)
Instructions:
- The Infusion: Place the whole cloves and the cinnamon stick into a glass jar.
- The Pour: Fill the jar with the white vinegar until the cloves are completely submerged.
- The Wait: Close the lid and let it sit in a dark cupboard for 24 hours. You will see the vinegar turn a deep, rich brown.
- The Dilution: Strain the liquid into a spray bottle and add the 1 cup of water to make it last longer and protect your surfaces.
- The Use: Spray it on countertops, windowsills, floors, or even the inside of your refrigerator.
- The Result: Wipe it away with a clean cloth. Your surfaces will be squeaky clean and your home will smell amazing.
Three Best Places to Use This Mix
- Kitchen Counters: It cuts through tough grease and prevents “kitchen flies” from hanging around your fruit bowl.
- Bathroom Tiles: It is excellent at stopping mold and mildew from growing in the cracks of your shower.
- Trash Cans: Spray the inside of your bin after taking out the trash to kill smells and keep flies from laying eggs.
A Friendly Tip for Success
If you have natural stone or marble countertops, avoid using this mixture on them, as the acid in the vinegar can dull the shine of the stone. For all other surfaces, it works like a charm! You’ll know the “Clove and Vinegar Secret” is working when you notice your home stays clean longer and you haven’t seen a single ant in the kitchen!
