I cut out the Kool Aid (c) years ago, but I admit to being an addict. None the less, there was a nagging feeling that this cheap garbage could somehow be useful. Then, a couple of moves later, I found it difficult to procure my favorite cleaning tool, citric acid. I used that stuff for everything, and I mean everything. It was then that I realized I still had a source, and it was cheap. These little packets have enough to fix just about nasty issue I’ve had. Here are a few of the many uses that we have found for the little chemical concoctions of citric acid and food coloring.
My 5 Kool Aid Cleaning Tips
1. Swamp cooler and air conditioner buildup – I moved into an apartment where the air conditioner was in the ceiling. It has a nasty habit of getting clogged up, and then the drip pan starts to flood the ceiling instead of drain. Simply locate the drain pipe from the drip pan and add two packets of any flavor of Kool Aid to 8 ounces of hot water. Turn off the unit and scoop out about 10 ounces of hot water. Finally, pour the 8 ounces of hot Kool Aid right in front of the drain pipe. Wait about an hour and go stir it with a spoon. Repeat for particularly nasty build-up.
2. Hard water buildup around faucets – Use some of the invisible kind straight on the grimy build up. Use gloves so it doesn’t sting along the nail beds. Simply dampen the area and spread the Kool Aid liberally on the area. Allow it to rest for five minutes or so and then scrub off with a damp toothbrush or sponge. Rinse the area well to prevent corrosion.
3. Clean coffee pots and food steamers – This one is a delicate issue, since you can’t exactly leave the citric acid on the area for long. It will corrode the heating appliance off and kill the machine. Use a diluted version, about the same as the package directions minus the sugar, and run the device through one cycle once per week. Rinse well after cleaning to prevent corrosion.
4. Remove counter stains– This is really easier and less smelly than bleach, which I am allergic to. (The smell of bleach has landed me in the hospital by corroding my lungs!) Simply spread out the invisible stuff all over the dampened stain and allow it to set for five to ten minutes and then scrub up with a damp sponge. Rinse well and repeat application for set-in stains like turmeric or colored Kool Aid. I once had an apartment that had horribly stained white counters that were left brown from the previous tenant. The treatments turned them back to their original white brilliance!
5. Lemon Kool Aid household cleaner – I love the lemon flavored stuff for making a household all purpose cleaner. Simply add one packet with warm water and a drop of organic Dr. Bronner’s Magic soap to a 1-quart or larger spray bottle. Stir well and use as you would any all-purpose cleaner. (Do not use on anything white, as it will stain a teeny bit. But for regular counters, bathtubs, toilets, and linoleum, it is perfect.)
Photo Credits:
Cooler
Water and hard water stain
Kitchen
