How to Use Ammonia Around the House

Ammonia is an alkaline cleaning solution made from chemical compounds, unlike soap, which is made from fats and lye. It's a versatile cleaning product particularly effective for cleaning glass because it doesn't leave residue. However, it's strong enough to remove grease and grime.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Clean an electric oven. Warm the over to 150 degrees F and then turn it off. Set a bowl with a half cup of ammonia on the oven's top rack and a large baking dish filled with boiling water on the bottom rack. Close the oven door and let it sit overnight. Remove them the next day and air out the oven. Wipe the interior surfaces clean with a few drops of dish soap and a little ammonia in a quart of warm water.

2. Restore the sparkle to dulled crystal. Mix a few drops of ammonia in 2 cups of water and sponge onto the glassware. Rinse well with clean water and dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.

3. Brighten white shoes with a 50/50 solution of ammonia and water. Dip a cloth in the solution and rub the shoes clean.

4. Get the soot off fireplace doors. Mix 1 teaspoon of ammonia and 2 teaspoons of white vinegar in a quart of water in a spray bottle. Spray the soot covered doors and let it stand for several seconds then wipe. Repeat as needed.

5. Eradicate stains on carpet and upholstery. Sponge the area with 1 cup of clear ammonia in a half-gallon of warm water. Dry thoroughly and repeat if necessary.

6. Brighten the view by wiping down windows with a solution of 1 cup clear ammonia in 3 cups of water. Wipe away dirt, grime, dust and fingerprints without smearing or streaking.

7. Banish moths from closets and pantries. Mix a half-cup of ammonia in a quarter of water. Wipe out drawers, cupboards and closet and pantry shelves. Let the surfaces air-dry.

Tips & Warnings

• Take care when using ammonia because its fumes are powerful. Work in a well ventilated area and never combine ammonia with any other cleaner.

Resources

• Tips for using ammonia.