Vinegar Should Never Be Used to Clean Common Household Items
Vinegar is an excellent all-purpose cleaner for a variety of household surfaces. There are a few surfaces, however, that should never be cleaned with vinegar.
1. A clothes iron is one of those surfaces. Never put vinegar in your iron tank; it could permanently damage the inside of the appliance.
2. Countertops are another area where vinegar should not be used. If you have stone countertops, avoid using vinegar because it can damage the surface.
3. Dishwashers should not be cleaned with vinegar either. The acid in vinegar can erode the seals in your dishwasher, causing leaks.
4. Cleaning with vinegar can also damage electronic screens, such as those on your TV or computer. The acid in vinegar has the potential to dissolve the protective coating on the screens.
5. When it comes to cleaning with vinegar, you should exercise caution when it comes to flooring. The acidity in vinegar can damage some types of flooring, such as hardwood or laminate. Before cleaning your entire floor with vinegar, test a small area first.
6. Knives are another item that should not be cleaned with vinegar. Vinegar’s acidity can cause your knives’ blades to dull over time.
7. Finally, vinegar should not be used to clean ranges. The fumes from the vinegar can be released into the air by the high heat of your stovetop, causing respiratory irritation.
Best Practices for Cleaning Your Home with Vinegar
Vinegar is a great natural option for cleaning your home. However, there are a few things you should know before using it. Here are the best practices to follow when cleaning with vinegar:
1. Always test vinegar on a hidden area first. This will help you avoid any unwanted damage or staining.
2. When using vinegar on hard surfaces, dilute it with water first. A 50/50 vinegar/water solution is usually sufficient.
3. Never use full-strength vinegar on porous surfaces such as stone or marble, as it can damage these materials. Always begin by diluting with water.
4. Always ventilate the area well when cleaning with vinegar by opening windows and doors or running an exhaust fan. Undiluted vinegar fumes can be overpowering.
5. Never pour full-strength vinegar down your drains to avoid damaging them. Instead, flush with hot water first, then if necessary, with a diluted vinegar solution.
Vinegar Substitutes for Household Cleaning
There are numerous vinegar alternatives available if you are looking for alternatives to vinegar for household cleaning. One substitute for vinegar is lemon juice. Lemon juice is a natural disinfectant that can be used to safely clean surfaces around the house. Baking soda can also be used as a cleaning agent. Baking soda is a mild abrasive that can be used on most household surfaces without causing damage. Finally, white distilled vinegar is another cleaning solution that can be used.
