Reach For This Household Essential To Keep Your Scissors As Good As New

Scissors have countless uses in and around the house. They can do it all, from cutting through packaging material to snipping herbs and artfully trimming gift paper. But constant use and inconsiderate handling will turn them dirty and rusty over time. This will reduce their functionality, dull the blades, and might leave unwanted residue on used surfaces. However, instead of throwing out your old pair or rinsing it with water, reach for white vinegar to make your old pair of scissors as good as new.

While rinsing your dirty scissors with water might seem like an easier alternative, it'll fast-track the rusting of the fastener and the blades. On the other hand, white vinegar is a versatile cleaning tool that will breathe life into your dull and grimy scissors. It won't just polish the blades but also eliminate the lingering germs at the same time. Additionally, it'll take care of blades that have rusted due to old age or constant exposure to water. That being said, don't make the mistake of using diluted white vinegar. This hack calls for full-strength (undiluted) white vinegar.

Once you have your undiluted white vinegar, get your dirty scissors, a bowl (or container), and clean microfiber cloths. Add some vinegar to the bowl and put the cloth inside to soak it in the liquid. Once it's adequately soaked, wring it out to remove the excess liquid to avoid dripping vinegar all over the space. Now, push open the dirty blades and gently wipe the handles before moving onto the tips. You might have to apply some pressure and dip the cloth in vinegar a couple of times if the blades are extremely dirty or sticky.

Exercise caution to avoid cutting your hand accidentally. Remember, while the blades might be sticky, they can still cut deep. If unsure, it's best to use a slightly-thick cloth for added protection. After the scissors are clean, use another microfiber cloth to dry them. In case you're dealing with rusty scissors, let them soak in the white vinegar bowl overnight to dissolve the nasty layer. But if the rust is incredibly stubborn, leave the scissors submerged for a few days. Once the coating starts peeling off, take them out and rub away the lingering rust with a non-scratch scrubber. Follow this up by wiping them down with a vinegar-soaked cloth prior to wiping them dry. Further, while this trick is great for scissors, it could also easily get rid of rust on your kitchen tools.