{
  "id": 3198385,
  "title": "Spraying vinegar on keys: why it's so widely recommended and what it's used for",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/25/spraying-vinegar-on-keys-why-its-so-widely-recommended-and-what-its",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-25T05:30:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Tom's Guide",
    "slug": "tom-s-guide",
    "url": "https://www.tomsguide.com/home/spraying-vinegar-on-keys-why-its-so-widely-recommended-and-what-its-used-for"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "House keys are often overlooked when it comes to cleaning, despite being touched by multiple people and carrying germs. A simple vinegar hack can effectively clean and disinfect keys without harsh chemicals. Vinegar's properties help remove light rust, dissolve skin oils and sweat, and it's non-toxic. To clean keys, spray them with white vinegar, let it sit for a few minutes to loosen dirt, then wipe with a dry paper towel. Be sure to dry keys thoroughly and avoid using this method on electronic keys.",
  "summary": "A clever key-cleaning hack that I'm almost sure you've overlooked when it comes to your own set.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}