Last Updated on September 17, 2024 by Nico
White vinegar can be too acidic to use for cleaning on some surfaces like stone and wood. Here are some nontoxic options of what to use instead of white vinegar for cleaning.
White vinegar is known as an inexpensive and nontoxic alternative to more conventional cleaners. Diluted white vinegar with a few drops of lemon essential oil is a staple in our household cleaning cupboard. Here is a good degreaser recipe using vinegar!
(! Avoid using essential oils if you have pets!)
What surfaces should not be cleaned with vinegar?
Stone surfaces
But vinegar can be too acidic on some surfaces. Vinegar shouldn’t be used to clean countertops or other surfaces made from stone like marble or granite. This is because the low level acid in vinegar can dull the colours of the stone. It can also break down any seal that’s been applied to the stone overtime.
Wood flooring
Diluted vinegar can also break down any finishes that have been applied to your wood flooring. This can leave the wood dull-looking or cloudy, so it’s best to avoid using vinegar products on wood floors.
Is white vinegar good for cleaning?
Overall, white vinegar is a simple, inexpensive option, and nontoxic option for day-to-day household cleaning. I love using it because all you need to do is to dilute it in half with water, add 20-30 drops of an essential oil, add it to a spray bottle, and give it a shake.
But due to its low level of acidity, it should be avoided in certain instances. So here are three ideas of what to use instead of white vinegar for cleaning.
Supplies
Amber glass spray bottle
Castile soap
Hydrogen peroxide
Baking soda
What to use instead of white vinegar for cleaning
Castile soap
Diluted castile soap is a great alternative to vinegar for cleaning stone and wood surfaces. Simply add ½ teaspoon of castile soap into a spray bottle and fill the rest with water. Give it a shake and it’s ready to use as a nontoxic cleaner. I use Dr. Bronner’s Castile Soap.
Hydrogen peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a powerful disinfectant. Simply combine equal parts water and hydrogen peroxide in a spray bottle and give it a shake.
I also like to add 20-30 drops of essential oil to the blend to give it a scent. But remember that lemon essential oil may not be the best choice if you have granite countertops because it is acidic.
Baking soda
Baking soda makes a pasty, gritty cleaner that is good for deep cleaning. You can make a paste with baking soda to scrub surfaces by combining ¼ cup baking soda with 2 ½ tablespoon of water and stirring it together. Use a cloth to spread it on a surface, let it sit for a few minutes, and use warm water to wipe it clean.
FAQ
What can I use instead of white vinegar to clean my washing machine?
You can use hydrogen peroxide as an alternative to white vinegar in your washing machine. Simply add 1-2 cups to the machine and then run a hot cycle. I like to do this every 2-3 months to disinfect the drum and prevent mildew from growing.
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