Mucky old water can start to stink if you can’t reach it, which can be problematic if you have a vase with a slender mouth. While it may seem like figuring out how to clean vases with narrow necks is an impossible feat, you’ll be happy to know that you can salvage those narrow-necked flower holders with items you can find in your kitchen pantry

You’ll need:

  • 3 to 4 tablespoons of uncooked rice
  • Dishwashing liquid
  • Warm distilled water
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons of distilled white vinegar

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1
    Step 1
    Mix up cleaning solution

    Mix a few drops of dishwashing liquid with warm water to make a soapy solution.

  2. 2
    Step 2
    Fill vase

    Fill vase about 1/3 of the way with your soapy water.


     

  3. 3
    Step 3
    Add vinegar

    Add 1 to 2 tablespoon of vinegar, depending on the size of the vase.


     

  4. 4
    Step 4
    Mix in rice

    Mix in 3 to 4 tablespoons of rice, more if you have a larger vase.


     

  5. 5
    Step 5
    Swish contents for three minutes

    Plug the mouth of the vase and swish the contents for about three minutes. The rice will act as a scrubber.

    Let the vase sit with the solution for a few hours. Every now and then, give the vase another good swish to help dislodge sediment.

  6. 6
    Step 6
    Rinse well

    Pour out your cleaning solution and rinse well with warm water.


    Now you can enjoy those glass Mother’s Day vases well after the flowers are gone!

    Looking for more tips on how to upcycle and reuse household items? Check out these seven practical uses for mason jars or learn how to create under-bed storage out of old dresser drawers and suitcases.

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Difficulty:
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