Cleaning vinegar is a specific type of vinegar that’s been formulated for a higher acidity with the express purpose of cleaning (meaning, don’t use it in your salad dressing!). “It’s essentially made from the fermentation of distilled alcohol, typically derived from grains like corn,” says Alicia Sokolowski, co-founder of AspenClean. “The process involves two steps: alcohol fermentation and acetic acid fermentation.”
I’ve always been fascinated by how something as simple as vinegar can be so powerful for cleaning. The science behind it is pretty cool—during fermentation, bacteria convert alcohol into acetic acid, which is what gives vinegar its punch. Cleaning vinegar’s higher acidity (usually 6-8%) makes it a bit of a superhero for tackling tough messes. From my own experience, I’ve found it works wonders on stubborn kitchen grease, and it’s reassuring to know I’m using something eco-friendly. If you’re curious about the process, it’s worth noting that the acetic acid in vinegar acts as a natural solvent, breaking down grime and killing some bacteria and mold. Just be sure to grab cleaning vinegar from the home improvement aisle, not the pantry!
The Difference Between Cleaning Vinegar and White Distilled Vinegar
Cleaning vinegar and white distilled vinegar are very similar in their composition (namely, acetic acid and water), but the key difference lies in the acidity levels between the two. “Cleaning vinegar generally contains a higher acetic acid concentration than regular white vinegar,” says Sokolowski. “While white vinegar typically contains around 5 to 7 percent acetic acid, cleaning vinegar might have an elevated concentration, sometimes reaching 6 to 8 percent.” The higher acidity level makes cleaning vinegar a great choice for cutting through grease and grime but makes it unusable for cooking. “The difference in concentration makes cleaning vinegar more powerful than regular distilled vinegar,” says Dills. “Due to its higher concentration, cleaning vinegar does not meet food-quality standards and is for cleaning only.” Also, it’s not uncommon to find that commercial cleaning vinegars might have added chemicals to supercharge their cleaning power, while regular white vinegar won’t have any additives.
I’ve made the mistake of grabbing white vinegar for a tough cleaning job, only to realize it wasn’t quite strong enough for the task. That 1-2% difference in acidity might not sound like much, but it can make a big impact on grease or soap scum. For example, I’ve noticed cleaning vinegar cuts through stovetop splatter way faster than white vinegar. If you’re wondering why cleaning vinegar isn’t food-safe, it’s because some brands add extra chemicals to boost its cleaning power, which is something to keep in mind when shopping. A quick tip: always check the label to ensure you’re getting pure vinegar if that’s what you prefer. The extra acidity also means it’s a bit harsher, so I always dilute it to avoid any surprises on delicate surfaces.
What to Clean with Cleaning Vinegar
Because cleaning vinegar works so well as a degreaser and disinfectant due to its higher acidity, it’s a natural for cleaning many household items. “From microwaves to shower heads, cleaning vinegar is the perfect environmentally friendly and versatile cleaning staple for your home,” says Dills. Remember to test an inconspicuous area first to ensure no damage is done by using the cleaning vinegar.
Cleaning vinegar has become my go-to for so many household chores. I’ve used it to zap grime off my microwave in minutes, and it’s a lifesaver for shower heads clogged with mineral deposits. The acetic acid in cleaning vinegar doesn’t just dissolve grease—it also has antimicrobial properties, which is why it’s so great for disinfecting surfaces like kitchen counters (just not marble!). According to some studies, vinegar with 6% or higher acidity can kill up to 99% of certain bacteria, like E. coli, on surfaces. My favorite trick is using it on glass shower doors—mix it with water, and it leaves them sparkling without much scrubbing. Just a heads-up: always spot-test first, because I learned the hard way that not all surfaces love vinegar’s acidity!
Diluting Cleaning Vinegar
While cleaning vinegar is prized for its strength, experts sometimes recommend diluting it with water. “The dilution allows for better control over the concentration, ensuring that it is strong enough to be effective in cleaning but not so strong that it causes damage,” says Sokolowski. “Even if you’re cleaning with diluted cleaning vinegar, it will still be slightly stronger than white vinegar,” she says.
Diluting cleaning vinegar has been a game-changer for me. I usually mix it at a 1:2 ratio with water for most tasks, which keeps it effective but gentle enough for everyday use. This dilution is especially handy for surfaces like tile or glass, where you want a streak-free shine without risking damage. The science here is simple: diluting reduces the acetic acid concentration, so it’s less likely to etch or discolor surfaces. I’ve also found that diluting makes the vinegar smell less intense, which is a bonus when I’m cleaning for hours. If you’re new to this, start with a small batch and adjust the ratio based on the mess—tougher stains might need a stronger mix!
Household Cleaning Uses
Mixing cleaning vinegar with water creates a great all-purpose cleaning solution, says Sokolowski. You can then use it to wipe down and disinfect the following surfaces: Kitchen countertops (but not marble or stone), Bathroom surfaces, Windows, Mirrors, Shower heads, Microwaves, Tile floors, Shower doors. Try mixing 1 part cleaning vinegar to 2 parts water to remove soap scum from glass shower doors, and mop tiles with a 1/2 cup of cleaning vinegar to a gallon of warm water. “However, be mindful of your tile type before using this method,” Dills says.
I’ve been amazed at how versatile cleaning vinegar is around the house. For instance, I use the 1:2 mix for my bathroom mirrors, and they come out crystal clear every time. The trick with tile floors is to make sure you’re not using it on natural stone tiles—stick to ceramic or porcelain to avoid any damage. I also love using it on my shower doors; that soap scum doesn’t stand a chance! A pro tip: warm the water slightly before mixing to boost the cleaning power, especially for greasy kitchen surfaces. If you’re cleaning a microwave, try heating a bowl of the vinegar-water mix inside for a minute first—it loosens grime like magic. Just be cautious with certain tiles, as Dills mentioned, since some can be sensitive to acid.
Stain and Odor Removal Uses
When diluted, you can use cleaning vinegar to remove stains and odors, as well as for a natural laundry softener, says Sokolowski. Try using cleaning vinegar on the following: Clothing, Carpets, Upholstery. “To tackle stains on your laundry, apply 1 tablespoon of [cleaning] vinegar mixed with 1 tablespoon of detergent,” Dills says. “Let that sit for one hour before using a paper towel or clean cloth to gently blot and lift the stain. Repeat this step as necessary until the stain lifts before washing.” And don’t forget your washing machine. “We would also recommend using it to clean your washing machine (just run an empty short cycle with some cleaning vinegar.)” Sokolowski says. (Just make sure to read your owner’s manual to see if the manufacturer advises against using vinegar in your model.)
I’ve had great success using cleaning vinegar for stains, especially on my kids’ clothes—grass stains and ketchup don’t stand a chance! The 1:1 vinegar-detergent mix is my go-to, and letting it sit for an hour really does the trick. For carpets, I’ve found that diluting the vinegar with water and dabbing it on with a cloth works better than soaking the area, which can leave a lingering smell. Cleaning the washing machine with it is a must, too; I run a cycle with a cup of vinegar every few months, and it keeps the drum smelling fresh. One thing I’ve learned: check your washing machine manual first, because some high-tech models don’t play nice with vinegar. Also, for pet odors on upholstery, a light vinegar spray works wonders—just don’t overdo it!
Descaling and Unclogging Uses
Use cleaning vinegar to unclog stubborn drains by adding 1 cup of baking soda to your drain followed by 1 cup of cleaning vinegar, says Dills. “Allow it to sit for half an hour, then run water to flush it out,” she says. You can also use cleaning vinegar to descale your coffee makers and tea kettles by running a mixture of cleaning vinegar and water through them.
This baking soda and vinegar trick for drains is one of my favorite hacks—it’s like a science experiment that actually works! The fizzing reaction between the baking soda (a base) and vinegar (an acid) helps break up gunk in the pipes. I’ve used it on my kitchen sink when it starts draining slowly, and it’s saved me from calling a plumber. For coffee makers, I run a 1:1 mix of cleaning vinegar and water through the machine, then follow with a few water-only cycles to rinse it out. It’s amazing how much scale comes off, and my coffee tastes better afterward. Just a tip: don’t skip the rinse cycles, or your coffee might have a vinegary tang!
What Not to Clean with Cleaning Vinegar
Remember—cleaning vinegar is more acidic than your standard white distilled vinegar, so always be careful when using it on sensitive surfaces. “While it’s a natural and effective cleaner, it should be used cautiously on certain surfaces and materials, especially when undiluted,” Sokolowski says. “Always test it before using it on surfaces, and avoid using it on surfaces sensitive to acid, such as marble or stone countertops.” In addition to leaving marble and stone countertops off your cleaning vinegar list, don’t use cleaning vinegar on the following: Hardwood floors, Wood cabinets, Stainless steel appliances and cookware, Electronic screens, Cast iron cookware, Porous surfaces. “The acidity can discolor wood and damage your electronic screens and stone surfaces,” says Dills.
I learned this lesson the hard way when I accidentally dulled a small spot on my stainless steel fridge with undiluted cleaning vinegar—yikes! The high acidity can strip finishes or etch surfaces, especially on natural materials like wood or stone. For example, marble is super sensitive because the acid reacts with its calcium carbonate, causing pitting. If you’ve got hardwood floors, stick to a milder cleaner to avoid discoloration. I always do a spot test in a hidden area now, like under a cabinet, to make sure it’s safe. If you’re unsure, diluted white vinegar is often a safer bet for delicate surfaces, or just skip vinegar altogether for things like your phone screen or cast iron skillet.
Cleaning With Apple Cider Vinegar
You can clean some household items with apple cider vinegar instead of white or cleaning vinegar. In general, it’s best to use the other types of vinegar for most chores, but apple cider vinegar can work for the following uses: Deodorizing the fridge, Cleaning the microwave, Removing shower glass stains, Cleaning windows and mirrors, Refreshing drains and disposals, De-scaling tea kettles, Sanitizing the dishwasher.
I’ve used apple cider vinegar in a pinch when I ran out of cleaning vinegar, and it’s surprisingly effective for lighter tasks. For example, I keep a small bowl of it in my fridge to zap odors, and it works just as well as baking soda. It’s also great for descaling my tea kettle—just run a mix of apple cider vinegar and water, and it clears out those mineral deposits. The downside? It’s pricier than cleaning vinegar, so I don’t use it as often. Plus, it has a darker color, which can sometimes leave a slight tint if you’re not careful, especially on white surfaces. Stick to small jobs like deodorizing or descaling, and you’ll get good results without breaking the bank.
