If it’s too good to be true, it probably is. That’s how I feel about vinegar as a household cleaner.
Don’t get me wrong… vinegar has some utility. However, when it comes to cleaning or needing to fix something, I prefer the best product for the job.
People love “vinegar can do this” and “vinegar can do that” articles. I guess it’s the fact it’s a consumable, inexpensive product that makes these “hacks” so popular and appealing.
The thing is, while vinegar certainly has some cleaning utility, it’s almost always not the best option. To that end, below I debunk 26 “vinegar-as-a-cleaner” myths.
1. Vinegar Kills All Germs
A common myth is that vinegar is an all-purpose disinfectant. While it has some antibacterial properties, it does not kill all types of bacteria or viruses, especially not those like salmonella or E. coli, which are two serious bacteria you don’t want hanging around your house.
2. Safe on All Surfaces
Vinegar is acidic and can damage natural stone surfaces like granite or marble, hardwood floors, and certain types of grout, leading to etching or dulling of the finish.
3. Effective Grease Cutter
Many believe vinegar can cut through grease easily. While it can help with light grease, it’s not as effective on heavy grease accumulations compared to specialized degreasers. See that? Specialized degreasers. That’s right, get the best product for the job.
4. Ideal for Washing Machines
Using vinegar as a fabric softener or to clean the washing machine might seem effective, but over time, its acidity can damage the rubber seals and hoses, leading to leaks. That’s no good. Classic case of penny wise, pound stupid.
5. Mixes Safely with Bleach
A dangerous myth is that mixing vinegar with bleach enhances cleaning. This combination releases toxic chlorine gas, which is harmful to inhale. Etch this debunked myth in your brain. Do not mix vinegar with bleach. I repeat, do not mix vinegar with bleach.
6. Removes Carpet Stains
People often think vinegar can remove old carpet stains. While it might lighten some stains, it can also harm carpet fibers or set certain types of stains permanently.
7. Best for Window Cleaning
Vinegar is touted as streak-free for windows, but in reality, it can leave streaks, especially if the windows are very dirty or if hard water is involved.
8. Eliminates Pet Odors
Vinegar is believed to neutralize all pet odors. While it may help somewhat, it doesn’t eliminate all pet odors, especially urine, and may just mask the smell temporarily.
9. No Need to Rinse
Some assume vinegar does not need to be rinsed off surfaces due to its natural composition. However, leaving vinegar on surfaces can attract dirt and grime, and its acidity can be damaging over time, so rinsing is often necessary.
10. Is an Effective Mold Killer
While vinegar might kill some types of mold on surfaces, it’s not effective against all types, especially mold embedded deep within walls or grout. For serious mold issues, professional treatment is often necessary.
11. Cleans Ovens Perfectly
Many believe that vinegar alone can tackle the tough, baked-on grime in ovens. However, vinegar often lacks the potency to easily clean heavily soiled ovens without significant scrubbing or additional cleaning agents.
12. Is a Good Substitute for Laundry Detergent
Some think vinegar can replace laundry detergent. While it can freshen fabrics and help with mild soap residues, it doesn’t contain surfactants needed to effectively clean dirty clothes.
What’s a surfactant you ask?
A surfactant, or surface-active agent, is a substance that, when dissolved in water or another solvent, reduces the surface tension of the liquid or the interfacial tension between two liquids or a liquid and a solid. This property makes surfactants versatile in aiding the mixing of oil and water, enabling them to act as detergents, wetting agents, emulsifiers, foaming agents, and dispersants.
In other words, surfactants clean clothes plus other technical stuff.
13. Can Polish Wooden Furniture
There’s a myth that vinegar can clean and polish wooden furniture. In reality, its acidity can damage wood finishes over time, leading to dullness and degradation.
14. Mixing Vinegar with Baking Soda Makes for a Better Cleaner
This combination is popular for its fizzy reaction, but once the initial reaction subsides, it essentially leaves you with salt water, with limited additional cleaning benefits.
15. Vinegar Completely Removes Soap Scum
While vinegar can help loosen some soap scum, it often struggles with thick layers found in showers and bathtubs. A more alkaline solution might be necessary for heavy buildup.
16. Is the Best Choice for Cleaning Hardwood Floors
This myth suggests vinegar won’t harm hardwood floors. However, its acidity can actually dull the finish over time, making floors look lifeless. Manufacturers often recommend specific cleaners designed for hardwood.
17. Can Disinfect Cutting Boards Thoroughly
People believe vinegar can fully disinfect wooden or plastic cutting boards, but it may not be effective against all pathogens, especially those involved in foodborne illnesses. Sometimes, more robust disinfectants are recommended.
18. Can Clean Electronic Screens Safely
The idea that vinegar is safe for cleaning TV or computer screens can lead to damage. Screen manufacturers typically advise against acidic or alcohol-based cleaners, as they can strip away coatings.
19. Can Remove All Pesticides from Produce
Some think a vinegar rinse can remove all pesticides from fruits and vegetables. While it can reduce surface residue, it’s not foolproof, and some water-resistant pesticides may remain.
20. Works Well as a Toilet Bowl Cleaner for Hard Water Stains
Vinegar is often believed to remove hard water stains in toilets effectively. While it may lessen some stains, tougher deposits might require cleaners specifically designed for hard water.
21. Enhances the Effectiveness of Your Dishwasher Detergent
Some believe adding vinegar to dishwasher detergent can boost cleaning power and leave dishes spotless. However, vinegar’s acidity can actually interfere with the detergent’s ability to clean effectively and may damage the dishwasher’s rubber parts over time.
22. Can Be Used Safely on All Types of Fabric
The idea that vinegar is a safe, natural fabric softener and stain remover for all types of fabric is misleading. Its acidity can weaken or damage delicate fabrics over time, including silk and rayon.
23. Eliminates Fleas and Ticks on Pets
While some pet owners use vinegar as a natural remedy to combat fleas and ticks, its efficacy is limited. It may repel some pests temporarily but won’t eliminate an infestation or kill eggs and larvae.
24. Is a Safe and Effective Way to Clean Leather
Using vinegar to clean leather goods is risky. Its acidic nature can cause leather to dry out, crack, or discolor, especially without proper conditioning afterward.
25. Is an Ideal Solution for Unclogging Drains
While vinegar and baking soda can cause a reaction that seems like it’s breaking down clogs, it often isn’t effective for serious blockages. Professional drain cleaners or mechanical methods are sometimes necessary.
