
Vinegar is a natural, inexpensive alternative to harsh commercial cleaners. Apple cider vinegar delivers the very same advantages as plain white vinegar and a more pleasant scent. Both have an identical acidity level and can be employed to clean and disinfect around the home, on everything from floors to drains. Apple cider vinegar is a nontoxic, biodegradable cleaning substitute.
The Way It Works
Cleaning using apple cider vinegar is safe; it efficiently eliminates dirt, mineral deposits and bacteria from surfaces.Though not as successful as chlorine bleach, the light acidic properties of apple cider vinegar works to kill bacteria on a cellular level. The busy cleaning agent from any vinegar is acetic acid, which is safe for most surfaces, but may also dreary some finishes on hardwood or no-wax floors and can lead to etching in softer stone counter and floor surfaces. A diluted solution of 1 cup of apple cider vinegar to 1 gallon of water safely cleans surfaces without risk of clouding or etching.
Cleaning the Kitchen
A solution of equal parts apple cider vinegar and water makes an all-purpose cleaner suitable for just about any surface from the kitchen. Use it to clean and deodorize the inside of the fridge and fridge. Wipe full-strength apple cider vinegar on timber cutting boards to clean and sanitize them. Add a cup of full-strength apple cider vinegar to the underside of the fridge before running to clean and deodorize the machine and help prevent mineral buildup on your own scalp.
Cleaning the Bath
Clean bathroom countertops, cupboards, sinks and most surfaces using a mix of equal parts apple cider vinegar and water. Keep bathroom drains clean and fresh by pouring 1/2 cup of baking soda into the drain, followed by a cup of apple cider vinegar and one cup of warm water. Let it sit for 10 minutes; then flush with boiling water. Use apple cider vinegar at full strength on tubs and showers to remove soap scum. The acidity of apple cider vinegar helps cut mineral deposits and other accumulation without creating chemical peels or leaving residue that must be washed off.
Windows and Walls and Laundry
Utilize the 50/50 water and apple cider vinegar mixture to give windows a streak-free cleaning. The same mixture can be used on painted surfaces such as walls and cabinetry to clean, remove stains and eliminate odors. Including a cup of apple cider vinegar to a load of laundry freshens the laundry room, and the machine. Cleaning using apple cider vinegar helps reduce odors and eliminate mold and mildew on any surface. The smell of vinegar may also be strong when moist, but as it dries, apple cider vinegar leaves behind a light, sweet scent.