A few days after setting up the Christmas tree, needles start appearing all over the apartment. They are usually treated as burdensome waste that needs to be disposed of quickly, albeit in practice are a source of valuable essential oils and fragrance compounds. Just combine them with vinegar to obtain a simple cleaning preparation that combines the degreasing effect of acetic acid with a significantly milder, resinous aroma.
The needles should fill about half of the liter jar and remain completely covered with vinegarthe apple version gives a milder scent, and the spirit version provides a stronger cleaning effect. Finely chopping the needles facilitates the release of essential oils, and adding a fresh twig from the tree enhances the aroma. The tightly closed jar should be kept in a shaded place for at least three weeks, then the liquid changes color and is gaining intensity.
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After pouring it through a fine sieve or gauze, it is worth preparing it immediately two versions of the preparationadapted to various applications at home. For regular cleaning, it is best to dilute it with water in a 1:1 ratio and pour it into a spray bottle, which makes it easier to quickly clean tiles and smooth fronts. A more delicate variant, diluted in a 1:4 ratio, is suitable for countertops and tables. Undiluted macerate stored in a jar remains durable and has a pleasant scent even for several months.
The basis of action of the preparation is acetic acid, which effectively breaks down deposits from hard water, removes greasy deposits and limits the multiplication of bacteria on smooth surfaces. Maceration of the needles in vinegar enriches the solution with essential oils containing, among others: terpenes, making the scent noticeably milder and less irritating than in the case of pure vinegar. In practice, this means a product that can be used more often, even in small apartments, without the need for intensive cleaning after each time.
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It gives best results on hard, non-absorbent surfaces where they are a problem streaks, scale and soap scum. It is suitable for cleaning windows and mirrors, cleaning tiles, shower cabins, bathroom faucets and stainless steel sinks because the acid helps separate dirt. without intensive scrubbing. The diluted version also works well for daily refreshment of doorknobs, handles, waste bins and cabinet fronts, evaporating quickly and leaving no streaks.
At the same time, there is a group of materials to which even flavored vinegar remains a risky solution. Natural stone, concrete, terrazzo and calcium-containing surfaces react badly to acids, which may lead to permanent discoloration or micro-damage. Caution is also recommended when using wood protected with oil or wax and delicate varnishes where regular use of vinegar gradually weakens the protective layer.
