Vinegar is an effective and inexpensive all-purpose cleaner that can be used to clean virtually every area of your home. It is a natural disinfectant and deodorizer that is safe for the environment. The acidic nature of vinegar allows it to dissolve grease, soap scum and mineral deposits. With just some white distilled vinegar, water and a few other essentials, you can get your entire home sparkling clean.
Kitchen
The kitchen tends to attract a lot of grime, grease and bacteria. Cleaning it regularly with vinegar can help disinfect surfaces and make them shine.
How to Clean Kitchen Appliances with Vinegar
Refrigerator – Mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray the mixture onto the interior and exterior of the fridge, including the door gaskets. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before wiping clean with a soft cloth. The vinegar will disinfect and deodorize.
Oven – Fill a baking dish with equal parts vinegar and water and heat in a 200°F oven for about 30 minutes. Allow the oven to cool slightly. Dip a cloth in the solution and use it to wipe away grime. For tough stains, sprinkle baking soda directly on them and spray vinegar over the baking soda. The fizzing reaction helps lift the dirt.
Coffee Maker – Run a brew cycle with equal parts vinegar and water to dissolve mineral deposits and stains inside the machine. Follow with a few cycles of plain water to rinse. The vinegar will also remove any stale coffee odors.
Dishwasher – Pour 2 cups of vinegar into the bottom of the empty dishwasher and run a full cycle. This will break down any grease and limescale. For front loading machines, you can pour 1 cup of vinegar into the detergent cup and run a hot wash cycle.
Microwave – Mix 1/4 cup vinegar and 1 cup water in a microwave-safe bowl. Cook on high for 5 minutes, allowing the steam to condense on the sides. Carefully remove the hot bowl. Wipe down the interior of the microwave with a soft cloth.
How to Clean Countertops with Vinegar
Granite, marble, quartz, laminate and tile countertops can all be cleaned with a vinegar-based solution.
- For granite, mix 1/4 cup vinegar with 1/4 cup rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle. Mist onto the surface and wipe clean with damp cloth.
- For marble, spray straight vinegar and wipe immediately to avoid damage from acidity.
- Quartz can be cleaned with 1/2 cup vinegar diluted in 1 gallon of water.
- For laminate or tile, spray surfaces with equal parts vinegar and warm water and wipe clean.
The vinegar will cut through grease, sanitize surfaces and leave counters shiny without harsh chemical fumes.
How to Clean the Kitchen Sink with Vinegar
The kitchen sink encounters food particles, grease and soap scum on a daily basis. Vinegar can dissolve these deposits for a sparkling finish:
- Spray vinegar directly onto faucets and fixtures. Allow to sit for a few minutes before rinsing and drying with a soft cloth. This will remove lime and calcium deposits.
- For stainless steel, spray vinegar and wipe dry with a microfiber cloth following the direction of the grain. This prevents water spots and maintains the shine.
- For porcelain sinks, sprinkle baking soda in the basin and spray with vinegar. Let the foaming reaction sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing. Use a soft scrub sponge to remove stubborn stains.
- For blocked drains, pour 1/2 cup baking soda down the drain followed by 1 cup heated vinegar. Let sit for 10-15 minutes before pouring boiling water down the drain to clear grease and grime.
How to Clean the Kitchen Floor with Vinegar
Vinegar can be used to mop kitchen floors, leaving them disinfected, streak-free and shiny:
- For vinyl floors, add 1/2 cup of vinegar to a bucket of warm water for mopping.
- For ceramic tile floors, a vinegar and water solution helps dissolve grime. Rinse with plain water.
- Wood floors can be cleaned by mixing 1/4 cup vinegar with 1 gallon of warm water. Dip a microfiber mop into the solution and mop as usual.
- For grease stains on the floor, spray vinegar directly onto the affected area and let sit for 15 minutes before wiping clean with a damp rag.
The acidic vinegar disinfects the floors while removing sticky messes. It cuts through grime without leaving chemical residues.
Bathroom
Mold, mildew, soap buildup and hard water deposits are common bathroom problems that vinegar can tackle.
How to Clean the Showerhead and Tiles with Vinegar
Mineral deposits from hard water can clog showerheads and leave tile surfaces dingy. Vinegar can dissolve the crusty buildup:
- To clean showerheads, fill a plastic bag with vinegar and secure it around the showerhead so that the openings are submerged. Let it soak for 2 hours before removing the bag and rinsing.
- For tiles, spray full-strength vinegar onto walls and floors and let sit for 10 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing clean. For stubborn stains, apply baking soda directly on the grout before spraying on vinegar.
Repeat this process weekly to prevent future buildup and keep the shower sparkling clean.
How to Clean the Toilet Bowl with Vinegar
Vinegar can help disinfect and descale toilet bowls:
- Pour 1/2 cup vinegar into the bowl and let sit for a few hours, allowing the acidity to dissolve stains and kill bacteria. Scrub with a toilet brush before flushing.
- For tough stains in the bowl or under the rim, sprinkle on baking soda and spray vinegar over it. Let the mixture fizz for 5 minutes before scrubbing and flushing.
- To prevent streaks, mix 1 cup vinegar with 2 cups water in a spray bottle. Mist the interior of the bowl after cleaning to make it shine.
How to Clean the Bathroom Mirror and Glass with Vinegar
Vinegar can be used to effectively clean bathroom mirrors, windows and glass shower doors:
- In a spray bottle, mix 2 parts water with 1 part white distilled vinegar. Lightly mist the glass surface and wipe off with newspaper or a lint-free cloth.
- For foggy bathroom mirrors, apply a vinegar-dipped cloth directly onto the mirror before rinsing and drying with a clean towel.
- To prevent future water spots, make a solution with 2 tablespoons vinegar per 1 quart of warm water. Use this to clean glass surfaces after showering.
The mild acid in the vinegar will cut through soap scum, hard water deposits and grime on glass while preventing streaks.
How to Clean the Bathroom Sink and Taps with Vinegar
For bathroom sinks and fixtures that encounter toothpaste, soap and grime, vinegar can help restore the shine:
- For porcelain sinks, spray vinegar and wipe with a damp cloth to eliminate stains and water deposits. For additional scrubbing power, sprinkle on baking soda first.
- To clean faucets, soak paper towels or a clean cloth in vinegar and wrap around fixtures. Let sit for 1 hour before unwrapping and rinsing.
- For drain odors, pour 1/2 cup baking soda down the drain followed by 1/2 cup vinegar. Let bubble for 10-15 minutes before rinsing with hot water.
Repeat weekly to prevent buildup and keep drains clear. The vinegar cuts through residue while disinfecting.
Floors
Vinegar can be used to mop all types of flooring. It helps to remove odors, sanitize floors and dissolve dirt without leaving streaks or soap residue.
How to Mop Tile Floors with Vinegar
For ceramic, porcelain and grout, a vinegar-based cleaning solution can help restore shine and prevent grime buildup:
- In a bucket, mix 1/2 cup vinegar with 1 gallon of warm water.
- Dip a mop into the solution and mop floors as usual.
- Rinse with plain water to prevent vinegar smell.
The vinegar breaks up dirt from foot traffic and helps grout lines stay cleaner.
How to Clean Hardwood Floors with Vinegar
Vinegar can be used to effectively clean sealed hardwood floors without damaging the finish:
- In a bucket, mix 1 cup of vinegar with 1 gallon of warm water.
- Mist floors with the solution and wipe clean with a damp mop or cloth.
- Rinse with plain water to eliminate vinegar odor once dry.
The solution cleans floors while leaving a shiny, streak-free finish.
How to Clean Vinyl Floors with Vinegar
For vinyl, linoleum and laminate floors, a diluted vinegar solution helps to boost shine and remove scuffs:
- Combine 1 cup white vinegar and 1 gallon warm water in a bucket.
- Dip a mop into the solution and clean the floors as usual.
- Wipe up any excess liquid to prevent vinegar smell once dry.
Vinegar eliminates sticky messes, disinfects floors and removes dulling residue and dirt buildup.
Windows and Glass Surfaces
Vinegar can be used to clean windows, mirrors, glass tables, windshields and more, leaving them streak-free and sparkling.
How to Clean Windows with Vinegar
For glass windows and patio doors, vinegar can cut through dirt and grease buildup effectively:
- In a spray bottle, mix equal parts vinegar and warm water.
- Spray solution onto window or glass surfaces and wipe clean with newspaper or a lint-free cloth.
- Use a squeegee to wipe excess liquid and dry windows completely.
The vinegar solution helps dissolve tough grime and hard water stains for crystal clear windows.
How to Clean Mirrors with Vinegar
To clean bathroom mirrors, hallway mirrors and glass surfaces without streaks:
- In a spray bottle, mix 2 parts water with 1 part white vinegar.
- Lightly mist the mirror and wipe clean with a microfiber cloth.
- Avoid scrubbing, which can damage mirror backing.
The mild acid in the vinegar dissolves soap scum, toothpaste splatters and other grime.
How to Clean Glass Shower Doors with Vinegar
For glass shower doors covered in hard water stains and residue:
- Spray full-strength vinegar directly onto the glass. Let sit for 5-10 minutes.
- Scrub with a damp cloth or sponge, rinsing thoroughly with water.
- Squeegee excess liquid off and wipe edges dry with a towel.
Repeat this weekly to prevent mineral buildup and keep glass transparent.
Furniture and Fabrics
Vinegar can also be used to clean and disinfect various furniture and fabrics around the home.
How to Clean Wood Furniture with Vinegar
For polished wood surfaces like tables, cabinets and chairs, a vinegar solution helps remove dust and fingerprints:
- Mix equal parts vinegar and olive oil or vegetable oil in a spray bottle.
- Lightly mist the wood furniture with the solution and wipe clean with a soft cloth.
- Use a dry cloth to immediately wipe away any excess liquid.
The vinegar cleans while the oil provides a protective barrier without damaging the finish.
How to Clean Leather Furniture with Vinegar
To clean leather couches, chairs and other upholstery:
- Mix 1/2 cup vinegar with 1/2 cup water in a spray bottle.
- Spray a small amount onto a soft cloth, then gently wipe the leather surface.
- Rinse the area with plain water and pat dry with a towel. Avoid overwetting.
Vinegar removes dirt and conditioners in leather while the water prevents drying out.
How to Disinfect Upholstery and Bedding with Vinegar
Mist a 50/50 vinegar and water solution onto cushions, mattresses, pet beds, duvets, blankets and other fabric items to kill dust mites, bacteria and odors. Allow the vinegar to dry fully before using items to avoid a lingering scent. The vinegar will naturally sanitize fabrics without bleach or other harsh chemicals.
Carpets and Rugs
Vinegar can power through stubborn carpet stains, smells and dirt without using harsh chemicals. Its antimicrobial properties sanitize carpets.
How to Clean Carpets with Vinegar
For general carpet cleaning to remove dirt and refresh fibers:
- Mix 1 cup white vinegar with 1 gallon of water in a spray bottle.
- Spray onto a small section of carpet. Avoid over-wetting.
- Gently blot the area with a clean, dry white towel to lift dirt and stains.
- Allow carpet to fully dry to avoid musty smells.
How to Remove Carpet Stains with Vinegar
For coffee, wine, juice or grease stains:
- First blot excess liquid from the spot with an absorbent cloth. Avoid rubbing.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the stain and let sit for 2-3 hours to absorb any remaining moisture and odor.
- Spray the stain with undiluted vinegar and let fizz for 2-3 minutes maximum.
- Blot area with a damp sponge, then a dry towel until spot is gone.
How to Deodorize Carpets with Vinegar
To eliminate odors like smoke, pets or mildew:
- Liberally sprinkle carpets with baking soda and let sit overnight to absorb odors.
- The next day, vacuum up the baking soda.
- Fill a spray bottle with equal parts cool water and vinegar. Mist carpets and allow to air dry to freshen.
The vinegar smell will dissipate as it dries but removes stubborn lingering odors.
Walls and Ceilings
Vinegar can be used as a gentle cleaner for painted walls, wallpapered surfaces and ceilings throughout the home.
How to Clean Painted Walls with Vinegar
Over time, painted walls accumulate dirt, smudges and sometimes mold. Vinegar can clean effectively without damaging paint:
- Fill a spray bottle with equal parts cool water and white vinegar.
- Lightly mist a small section of the wall and wipe gently with a damp microfiber cloth.
- Rinse vinegar-cleaned walls with water to prevent lingering sour smell.
The vinegar cuts through grime without the harsh chemicals of most cleaners.
How to Clean Wallpaper with Vinegar
For vinyl wallpaper, vinegar can dissolve sticky grime buildup without stripping away adhesives:
- Mix 2 tablespoons vinegar with 1 quart warm water in a spray bottle.
- Mist wallpapered surfaces with the solution and wipe gently with a soft sponge or rag.
- Rinse with plain water and pat dry with a lint-free cloth.
Test vinegar on an inconspicuous spot first since it can stain some fragile wallpapers if left on too long.
How to Clean Ceilings with Vinegar
Ceilings can attract a buildup of dust and sometimes mold growth. Vinegar provides a safe cleaning option:
- Fill a spray bottle with 1 part white vinegar to 5 parts water.
- Mist the vinegar solution onto ceiling surfaces and wipe clean with a microfiber mop or cloth.
- Rinse with plain water to avoid a lingering sour smell as vinegar dries.
Vinegar cuts through dirt, dust and grime that vacuuming misses, for clean ceilings.
Laundry
Vinegar can be used as a natural bleach alternative in the laundry to boost cleaning and remove stains. It also softens fabrics.
How to Whiten and Brighten Laundry with Vinegar
For a non-toxic bleaching effect:
- Fill the bleach dispenser with 1/2 cup vinegar or add it directly to the drum during the rinse cycle.
- Wash laundry as usual, with regular detergent. The vinegar naturally brightens whites.
- For heavy stains, soak clothes in diluted vinegar before washing.
How to Soften Fabrics with Vinegar
To soften rough linens, denims, towels and clothes:
- Add 1 cup vinegar to the rinse cycle to work as a natural fabric softener.
- Or, add 1⁄2 cup vinegar to the wash cycle along with regular laundry detergent.
The vinegar prevents soap buildup that causes fabrics to stiffen.
How to Destink Clothes with Vinegar
For smelly clothing or activewear, vinegar helps to eliminate odors:
- Fill a bucket with 4 parts cool water and 1 part vinegar.
- Soak sweaty or musty clothes in this solution for 1 hour before washing.
- Launder as usual. The vinegar kills bacteria causing odors.
It can be used alone or along with laundry detergent.
Outdoor Surfaces
Vinegar can be used outside the house for cleaning patio furniture, BBQ grills, vehicles, garage floors and more. Its acidic formula is tough on dirt but gentle enough for the environment.
How to Clean Patio Furniture with Vinegar
For outdoor plastic, wood or metal furniture:
- In a spray bottle, mix equal parts white vinegar with warm water.
- Mist the solution onto furniture and wipe clean with a damp cloth.
- Rinse with plain water and dry surfaces thoroughly.
The vinegar removes mold, bird droppings and other outdoor grime from patio furniture.
How to Clean Grill Grates with Vinegar
To dissolve baked-on grease and burnt food residue on grill grates:
- While grates are still warm (not hot), brush with a wire grill brush.
- Fill a spray bottle with undiluted white vinegar and generously coat grates, allowing vinegar to penetrate for 5 minutes.
- Re-brush