The Ultimate Guide to Cleaning with Apple Cider Vinegar

Are you looking for a natural, eco-friendly way to clean your home? Look no further than apple cider vinegar! This versatile product can be used in a variety of cleaning tasks all around your house. From removing soap scum to unclogging drains, apple cider vinegar is a safe and effective alternative to commercial cleaners. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore 14 smart ways to clean with apple cider vinegar, along with helpful tips and tricks to make your cleaning routine a breeze.

What is Apple Cider Vinegar?

Before we dive into the cleaning tips, let’s take a closer look at what apple cider vinegar actually is. Apple cider vinegar is made from fermented apple juice, giving it a distinctive golden color and a slightly sweet aroma. It contains acetic acid, which gives it its powerful cleaning properties. Unlike distilled white vinegar, apple cider vinegar has a more pleasant scent, making it a popular choice for natural cleaning solutions.

Why Choose Apple Cider Vinegar for Cleaning?

There are many reasons to choose apple cider vinegar for your cleaning needs. Not only is it an eco-friendly alternative to harsh chemicals, but it is also safe to use around pets and children. Apple cider vinegar is versatile and can be used on a wide variety of surfaces, from countertops to floors. Plus, it is cost-effective and readily available at most grocery stores. By incorporating apple cider vinegar into your cleaning routine, you can create a healthier, more sustainable home environment.

14 Smart Ways to Clean With Apple Cider Vinegar

1. Remove Soap Scum
2. Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
3. Spray the solution onto soap scum and let it sit for a few minutes.

4. Wipe clean with a damp cloth for sparkling results.

5. Clean the Toilet

6. Pour apple cider vinegar into the toilet bowl and let it sit for a few hours or overnight.

7. Scrub with a toilet brush and flush for a clean and fresh toilet.

8. Unclog the Showerhead

9. Fill a plastic bag with apple cider vinegar and secure it around the showerhead with a rubber band.

10. Let it soak overnight, then remove the bag and run hot water to unclog mineral deposits.

11. Unclog Slow Running Sinks

12. Pour apple cider vinegar down the drain, followed by baking soda.

13. Let it sit for 30 minutes, then flush with hot water to clear clogs.

14. Kill Mold in the Shower

15. Spray undiluted apple cider vinegar onto moldy areas in the shower.

16. Let it sit for an hour, then scrub with a brush and rinse thoroughly.

17. Shine Stainless Steel

18. Dip a cloth into apple cider vinegar and wipe stainless steel appliances to remove fingerprints and smudges.

19. Buff with a clean, dry cloth for a streak-free shine.

20. Descale Tea Kettles and Coffee Makers

21. Fill the appliance with equal parts apple cider vinegar and water.

22. Run a brewing cycle, then rinse thoroughly to remove mineral buildup.

23. Clean and Freshen a Dishwasher

24. Place a cup of apple cider vinegar on the top rack of the dishwasher.

25. Run a hot water cycle to eliminate odors and residue.

26. Make Your Microwave Interior Sparkle

27. Fill a microwave-safe bowl with equal parts apple cider vinegar and water.

28. Microwave on high for five minutes, then wipe down the interior for a clean microwave.

29. Remove Stains and Stickiness from Silicone Bakeware

    • Soak silicone bakeware in a mixture of apple cider vinegar and water.
    • Scrub with a sponge to remove stains and sticky residue.

30. Mop Ceramic and LVP Floors

    • Mix apple cider vinegar with warm water in a bucket for a natural floor cleaner.
    • Mop floors as usual for a streak-free shine.

31. Remove Carpet Stains

    • Blot carpet stains with a cloth soaked in apple cider vinegar.
    • Let it sit for 15 minutes, then scrub with a brush and rinse with water.

32. Brighten and Freshen Carpets

    • Sprinkle baking soda on carpets, then spray with apple cider vinegar.
    • Let it foam, then scrub with a brush and vacuum for fresh-smelling carpets.

33. Wash Windows

    • Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
    • Spray windows and wipe with a microfiber cloth for streak-free shine.

Tips for Cleaning with Apple Cider Vinegar

• When it comes to cleaning, both apple cider vinegar and distilled white vinegar are interchangeable.
• Avoid mixing vinegar with chlorine bleach, as it can create toxic fumes.
• For general cleaning, a 50/50 dilution of apple cider vinegar and water works well on most surfaces.
• Enhance the cleaning power of apple cider vinegar by combining it with dish soap or baking soda.
• Some cleaning tasks may require undiluted apple cider vinegar for best results.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, apple cider vinegar is a versatile and effective natural cleaner that can be used in a variety of household cleaning tasks. By incorporating apple cider vinegar into your cleaning routine, you can create a healthier, more sustainable home environment while saving money on commercial cleaners. Whether you are looking to remove soap scum, unclog drains, or freshen carpets, apple cider vinegar is a safe and eco-friendly solution for all your cleaning needs. Try out these smart cleaning tips and discover the power of apple cider vinegar in transforming your home into a clean and inviting space.