Why Vinegar is a Healthy and Safe Alternative to Other Household Cleaners

A clean house is important for good health, but depending on the cleaners we use, and the people we live with, we might be at risk of triggering reactions based on our choices. Some people are sensitive or have allergic reactions to both chemicals and the scents often included in cleaners. To mitigate these challenges and take good care of both the house and our health, there’s a safer cleaning alternative some might want to consider. 

The Benefits of Vinegar as a Cleaning Agent

Vinegar has many benefits when used as a cleaning product. It’s eco-friendly and non-toxic, making it safe for people, pets and the planet. It’s the ultimate solution for a multipurpose cleaner that may be used on almost any surface. Best of all, it’s inexpensive and easy to find, so always having some on hand is easy. 

Since it’s made from acetic acid, vinegar is an excellent cleaner and disinfectant. Acetic acid is colorless, and this organic compound is what makes vinegar smell and taste pungent and strong. Bonus: like other household cleaners, it also kills bacteria. 

What Type of Vinegar Should Be Used?

There are different types of vinegar that are the most commonly available. Distilled white vinegar is the most ideal option, since it has a 5% acidity level, making it most comparable to other household cleaners. It’s also a great option because it won’t leave stains behind. 

Balsamic, brown vinegar and red wine vinegar aren't really ideal for cleaning purposes — so let' save those for our salads. These types of vinegar do offer antibacterial properties, but they’re darker in color so they might leave a stain behind. 

While apple cider vinegar is commonly used for cleaning purposes, it should not be used on fabrics because it, too, might leave behind stains. 

Doesn’t Vinegar Smell Too Strong to Use as a Cleaner?

It’s no secret that vinegar — no matter what type — has a distinct smell. But some types of vinegar are stronger smelling than others. Distilled white vinegar is the most pungent. But of course, other cleaners often have chemical odors. The scent is distributed over a larger area so it's diluted right away and the strong scent of vinegar dissipates quickly, leaving a fresh scent of cleanliness behind.

Adding an essential oil to a vinegar and water mix might help those who find it truly objectionable — but essential oils can cause stains on wood and fabrics n some cases. Opening the windows during or after cleaning will also help eliminate the vinegar odor quickly. 

The Best Ways to Clean With Vinegar

Cleaning with vinegar is easy. White vinegar can be used on its own or mixed with water into a diluted solution for everyday use. Apple cider vinegar should be diluted before using it due to its staining potential. You can clean virtually anything with vinegar that you'd clean with chemical cleaners: 

• Glass surfaces, such as windows and patio doors. Vinger is a great glass cleaner!
• Countertops. Some say it should never be used on granite or marble surfaces — so check yours first.

• Showers, tubs, and faucets. Chrome and brass gleam with a vinegar polish!

• Toilets and bathroom surfaces. Fresh, clean, and disinfected. 
• Floors. Vinegar should not be used on hardwood or natural stone because it can etch these surfaces — special cleaners should be used instead.

• Appliances and dishwashers. Vinegar can help polish stainless surfaces beautifully.

• Laundry. Just add one cup of distilled white vinegar to the wash cycle to eliminate odors. Avoid using vinegar with staining potential. 

If it just won't work for you, we've written on other alternatives, too. But vinegar is a safe, healthy, non-toxic and eco-friendly cleaning agent. It works just as well as household cleaners that may contain potentially harmful chemicals. From cooking to cleaning, vinegar is an often-overlooked workhorse that makes a great choice for a safe and healthy home. 

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