Metal: Before painting a metal item, wipe the surface with a solution of 1 part vinegar to 5 parts water. This cleans the surface and makes peeling less likely.
Galvanized metal should be scoured with vinegar before painting. The acidic qualities of the vinegar will clean and degrease the surface and help the paint adhere.
Odors: When applying paint of any kind, keep small dishes of vinegar around the room to absorb paint odors. Keep the dishes out for a few days, adding new vinegar each day.
Paintbrushes: Soften hardened paintbrushes by soaking them for an hour in warm vinegar. First boil the vinegar, then pour enough into a container to cover bristles. Do not soak longer than a few hours or bristles may be ruined. Wash the brushes afterward in soap and water, then allow them to air-dry before using.
Windows: When removing dried paint on glass windows, first spray the paint with warm vinegar, then carefully scrape or peel off the paint.