subject: Top Household Cleaners: White Vinegar [print this page] There are many chemical based cleaners sold in stores that are absolutely terrible for the environment and pose serious health risks without proper skin protection and ventilation. The mass quantities of these potions make it seem as if no eco-friendly alternatives exist.
However, one which is easily available, inexpensive, works great, and is already in most homes is white vinegar.
Its so harmless humans can digest it.
White vinegar is made through a fermentation process and can be used straight or depending on the need diluted with water. Dilution is recommended in most cases as pure white vinegars acidity may cause damage or discoloration, which is why its a great tool for getting rid of mold, mildew, and bacteria. Scented oils could be added to a vinegar/water solution, as sometimes the vinegar scent lingers for a few minutes after cleaning with it.
Some common household uses for white vinegar include the following:
In the kitchen:
Running through the coffee maker, which will improve the taste of coffee. After the vinegar, run water through to remove the salad dressing taste.
Floors: use half a cup with a bucket of water for linoleum or hard wood.
Tough stainless steel stains: two or three tablespoons of vinegar and a few teaspoons of salt will clean tough stains.
Bathroom:
Hard water stains in the shower or toilet: Use in a spray bottle or just dump it on and let it react for about a half an hour. Then scrub. Its also good to use on soap scum.
Dining Room:
Carpet stains: after the main problem is cleaned up spray a solution of half water, half vinegar on the spot. Let it sit for a few minutes and then blotch out with a towel.
Laundry:
Many tough stains can be removed by rubbing in with vinegar and then putting in the wash.
