You’ve been using white vinegar wrong – why you should NEVER clean these household surfaces with homemade products
WHITE vinegar can be used to clean many household items and surfaces, but sometimes you're better off using an alternative.
While many homemade cleaning solutions are just as effective as a store-bought product, they can also ruin your surfaces and appliances if you're not careful.
White vinegar is a natural, non-toxic disinfectant, making it a go-to for safe cleaning within homes.
But due to its acidity, it can actually ruin some of your common household items.
In general, it's best to test a small part of the surface or item first when using any new cleaning solution.
This way, you can gauge whether it is safe to use on the entire surface and avoid damaging any of your belongings.
Below, we explain when to avoid using white vinegar while cleaning.
Marble and stone countertops and floor tiles
The acidity of white vinegar can ruin these natural stone surfaces.
It can dull marble and whitestone, and even break sealers on other stones.
Avoid homemade cleaners and those containing lemon when cleaning these surfaces.
Other tips
In some cases, white vinegar is highly recommended for cleaning.
A white vinegar and water solution is effective for cleaning windows and carpet stains, among others.
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If you have any greasy pots or pans, soaking them in a white vinegar and water solution can help, as the acid can cut through the grime.
Generally, you should aim for three parts water and one part white vinegar when mixing your own cleaning solution.
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