Apple cider vinegar (ACV) isn’t just a kitchen staple or a health elixir—it’s also a powerhouse natural cleaner that can help you tackle a wide variety of household cleaning tasks. Its acidity, antibacterial properties, and deodorizing effects make it an effective, non-toxic alternative to harsh chemical cleaning products. Whether you’re trying to reduce your reliance on chemicals, save money, or find more eco-friendly solutions, apple cider vinegar is a go-to option for cleaning just about everything in your home.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the many ways you can use apple cider vinegar for natural household cleaning. From kitchen countertops to bathroom surfaces, we’ve got you covered with easy-to-follow instructions and DIY recipes for an eco-friendly clean.
Why Use Apple Cider Vinegar for Cleaning?
Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which gives it a natural cleaning power that can dissolve mineral deposits, grime, grease, and soap scum. ACV also has antimicrobial properties, making it effective at fighting bacteria, mold, and mildew. Unlike commercial cleaners, apple cider vinegar is non-toxic, biodegradable, and free from harmful chemicals like bleach, ammonia, and artificial fragrances.
Some key reasons why apple cider vinegar is ideal for cleaning include:
- Non-toxic: Safe to use around children and pets.
- Eco-friendly: Biodegradable and safe for the environment.
- Cost-effective: Inexpensive compared to commercial cleaners.
- Antimicrobial: Helps disinfect surfaces and eliminate bacteria.
- Deodorizing: Neutralizes odors, leaving your home smelling fresh.
Now, let’s dive into how to use apple cider vinegar for cleaning in different areas of your home.
How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar for General Household Cleaning
All-Purpose Cleaner
Apple cider vinegar can be used as a multi-surface cleaner to tackle a variety of household surfaces, from countertops and tables to bathroom sinks and even floors.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup of water
- Optional: 10-15 drops of essential oil (e.g., tea tree, lavender, or lemon for fragrance)
Instructions:
- Mix 1 cup of apple cider vinegar with 1 cup of water in a spray bottle.
- If desired, add 10–15 drops of essential oil for a pleasant scent and extra cleaning properties.
- Shake well before use and spray on the surface to be cleaned.
- Wipe with a microfiber cloth or sponge for a streak-free finish.
This all-purpose cleaner is safe for most surfaces, including granite, stainless steel, ceramic, and wood. However, avoid using it on natural stone surfaces like marble, as the acidity can damage the stone over time.
How to Clean Kitchen Surfaces with ACV
Countertops & Kitchen Appliances
Apple cider vinegar works wonders on greasy kitchen countertops, stoves, and appliances like the microwave or refrigerator.
Instructions:
- Spray the ACV solution directly on kitchen surfaces like countertops, stovetops, or the exterior of appliances.
- Let it sit for a few minutes to loosen grease or grime.
- Wipe away with a clean cloth or sponge.
- For stubborn grease, you can apply undiluted ACV or scrub with a paste of baking soda and water.
Microwave Cleaner:
To clean a microwave with ACV:
- Mix 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar and 1/2 cup of water in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Heat the solution in the microwave for 3-5 minutes to create steam.
- Wipe down the microwave interior with a cloth, removing food particles and odors.
How to Clean Bathroom Surfaces with ACV
Apple cider vinegar is perfect for tackling the tough buildup found in bathrooms, from soap scum on tiles to hard water stains in the shower.
Shower and Tub Cleaner:
ACV’s ability to cut through soap scum and mineral deposits makes it perfect for cleaning your shower or bathtub.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup of water
- 1/2 teaspoon of dish soap (optional, for extra cleaning power)
Instructions:
- Mix the apple cider vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
- Add a few drops of dish soap if desired.
- Spray liberally on the surfaces of your shower or bathtub.
- Allow it to sit for 10-15 minutes to dissolve soap scum and mineral buildup.
- Scrub with a brush or sponge, then rinse with water.
Toilet Cleaner:
To remove stains and disinfect your toilet:
- Pour 1 cup of apple cider vinegar into the toilet bowl.
- Let it sit for 15–20 minutes.
- Scrub the sides of the bowl with a toilet brush.
- Flush to rinse.
This method helps remove mineral deposits and bacteria from the toilet bowl, leaving it fresh and clean.
How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar to Clean Floors
Apple cider vinegar is gentle on most floors, making it an excellent choice for hardwood, tile, laminate, and even vinyl floors. It effectively removes dirt and shines the surface without the need for harsh chemicals.
Floor Cleaner Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar
- 1 gallon of warm water
Instructions:
- Mix 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar with 1 gallon of warm water in a mop bucket.
- Use a mop or microfiber cloth to clean your floors with this solution.
- The ACV solution will help remove grime, disinfect the floor, and add a nice shine without leaving any residue.
How to Deodorize Your Home with Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is also great for neutralizing odors in your home. It works by absorbing odors and breaking down the molecules responsible for bad smells.
Room Deodorizer:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup of water
Instructions:
- Mix 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar with 1 cup of water in a spray bottle.
- Shake the bottle and lightly mist it around the room to eliminate odors. You can also spray it on furniture or fabrics.
- For stronger odors, place an open bowl of undiluted apple cider vinegar in the room and let it sit overnight to neutralize the smell.
Garbage Disposal Cleaner:
To remove odors from your garbage disposal:
- Pour 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar into the disposal.
- Let it sit for 10 minutes.
- Rinse with hot water while running the disposal to flush out odors.
How to Clean and Deodorize Laundry with ACV
Apple cider vinegar can also be used in the laundry room to help soften fabrics, break down detergent buildup, and neutralize odors in your clothes.
Fabric Softener:
- Add 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar to the fabric softener compartment of your washing machine during the rinse cycle.
- It will help soften clothes naturally and prevent any residue from detergent or fabric softener.
Odor Removal:
To remove stubborn odors (like smoke or mildew) from clothes:
- Add 1 cup of apple cider vinegar to your washing machine along with your regular detergent.
- The vinegar will help break down the odor molecules, leaving your clothes fresh.
How to Clean Windows and Mirrors with ACV
Apple cider vinegar can also be used to clean windows and mirrors, leaving them streak-free and sparkling.
Window and Mirror Cleaner:
- Mix 1 part apple cider vinegar with 1 part water in a spray bottle.
- Spray directly onto the glass and wipe with a lint-free cloth or paper towel.
- For extra shine, buff the surface with a microfiber cloth.
Precautions When Using Apple Cider Vinegar for Cleaning
While apple cider vinegar is a versatile and powerful cleaner, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Test surfaces: Before using ACV on a new surface, test it in an inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn’t damage or discolor the material, particularly with marble, granite, or other natural stone surfaces.
- Avoid using undiluted: While ACV is effective, it can be too strong when undiluted and may cause damage to sensitive surfaces. Always dilute it with water for general cleaning.
- Ventilate: If you’re using ACV in a large area, make sure to open windows or provide ventilation to reduce any strong vinegar smell.
Conclusion
Apple cider vinegar is an affordable, effective, and natural option for cleaning your home without the need for harsh chemicals. From disinfecting countertops and shining floors to neutralizing odors and removing soap scum, ACV can handle nearly every cleaning task in your home.
By incorporating ACV into your cleaning routine, you’ll not only improve the cleanliness of your home but also promote a healthier living environment that’s safe for both you and the planet. Whether you’re looking to save money or reduce chemical exposure, apple cider vinegar is a simple
yet powerful solution.
