Unclogging Cork in the Kitchen

 

Cork is a great material for many things in the home, from crafting unique mats for your kitchen to creating an eye-catching backsplash. However, the porous material can become stained or even smelly if it's used for too long. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to keep your cork looking fresh and new, from washing it to using bleach.

Washing your cork:

Often, all you need to do is wash a piece of cork with a bit of dish soap and water to get it back to looking brand-new. The simplest way to do this is by simply running a wet cloth across the surface, but you can also use a sponge or your fingers. The important thing is to avoid over-wetting the cork; this can cause mold and mildew, so you need to let it dry completely before you continue.

This can be a bit tricky as cork can easily split if you force too much pressure on it, which is why this method is best reserved for emergency situations. Instead of letting your frustration get the better of you, grab a pair of towels and wrap them around the bottle to cushion it. Then, start whacking the bottom of the bottle against the wall or counter over and over again until the cork is free. This works surprisingly well, but be aware that it can cause damage to your surfaces below, so be careful.

Another way to open a wine bottle without a corkscrew is to use heat. This works by heating the area around where the cork is seated in the bottle, which will create pressure and begin to ease it up until you can pull it out. This is not a good idea for higher-end wines, as it may change the flavor of the wine inside, but for a cheaper bottle, this can be a good alternative.

Wire hangers are one of the most versatile household tools, from hanging clothes up to prevent creases to unclogging your drain. However, this handy item can also serve as a quick and easy makeshift wine bottle opener if you don't have a corkscrew on hand. Simply plunge the end of the wire hanger into the cork and twist until you're able to yank it out. This method is a little risky as the wire hanger could crack or split the cork, ruining your wine below, but it's worth a shot if you're in a pinch. You can even recycle the cork afterward by shipping it to Debouchage liege Terracycle for their zero waste program. They will then reuse it to make things like flooring, wall coverings, and garden containers. You can also use ground up cork in your plants to improve drainage. This is especially helpful for potted orchids and succulents, as cork can be particularly difficult to grow in dry soil.