Have you got some leftover gin lying around the house? “What’s that!” you exclaim, followed by “highly unlikely”. 

But let’s just say you did (how we laughed and laughed), we have five handy ways you can use this very versatile spirit. 

1. Not just for your personality, Gin makes your diamonds sparkle too! 

Simply pour a small amount of gin onto cotton wool and rub it over your jewels. The high alcohol level will remove any grease or bacteria.  Apparently the Queen’s dresser uses gin to clean her diamonds.

2. Gin is the key to an extra flaky pie crust

To avoid gluten formation which toughens the dough try adding some gin in your next bake. The gluten won’t form as the ethyl alcohol in gin does not attach itself in the same way as water does. Just make sure you use chilled gin.

3. All-Purpose Household Cleaner 

We don't recommend using a premium gin for this. Load up a spray bottle with gin and use it to get rid of mould and grime. For best cleaning results, let the stubborn spores soak in the alcohol for a few minutes before wiping them away with a damp cloth or sponge.

4. Air Freshener 

Fill a spray bottle with some gin and add a few drops of jasmine oil for a homemade air freshener. When sprayed, the alcohol quickly evaporates, leaving behind the scent of juniper and jasmine. It’s a natural way to remove household odours, from kitchens to bathrooms, and can be used on most fabrics and carpets. It will even help sort out your smelly shoe situation.

5. Aftershave 

A post-shave splash of gin will help keep the skin tight, whilst cleaning out any nicks. Who knows, the scent of juniper on your neck might turn out to be an irresistible lure for passing gin-lovers.

These handy hints are a great way to use up those gifted bottom shelf gins in particular. Keep the premium gins for an ever-ready gin and tonic; in the other hand if the situation requires it.