Clean with Vinegar – Effective and Eco-Friendly Home Cleaning Tips

Vinegar is one of the most versatile and natural cleaning agents you can have at home. It’s affordable, highly effective, and environmentally friendly—all while keeping your home spotless without the use of harsh chemicals. In this article, we’ll cover the best ways to incorporate vinegar into your cleaning routine and what to keep in mind for optimal results.

Eric Davidsson
Updated: February 14, 2025

What You’ll Learn in This Article:

  • How to use vinegar for cleaning different surfaces and materials.
    Practical home cleaning tips for kitchens, bathrooms, and other spaces.
    Important safety precautions when using vinegar for cleaning.
    How to replace chemical cleaners with vinegar for a more sustainable home.

Need professional help with cleaning? At Effektstäd, we offer home cleaning in Malmö and home cleaning in Lund to ensure your space stays sparkling clean.

Cleaning the Kitchen & Kitchen Fabrics

1. Cleaning Kitchen Surfaces & Appliances

Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. This solution is perfect for cleaning kitchen counters, stovetops, and appliances. Add a few drops of essential oil, like lemon or lavender, for a fresher scent. However, avoid using this mixture on natural stone surfaces, as vinegar can damage them.

2. Deep Cleaning the Oven

Sprinkle baking soda over the bottom of your oven and spray with a vinegar-water mix. The chemical reaction effectively breaks down grease and burnt-on grime. Let sit, then wipe clean with a damp cloth—perfect for deep cleaning or move-out cleaning.

3. Refreshing Kitchen Towels & Textiles

If your dish towels or clothes smell musty, add 100 ml of vinegar to the rinse cycle. Vinegar helps to soften fabrics, kill bacteria, and neutralize odors, making it ideal for allergy-friendly cleaning.

Bathroom & Drain Cleaning

4. Cleaning Toilets, Bathtubs & Drains

For clogged drains, pour a mix of baking soda and salt down the drain, followed by 100 ml of vinegar. Let it fizz for 30 minutes before rinsing with hot water. This method is highly effective for maintaining drains in both office cleaning and home environments.

5. Streak-Free Windows & Mirrors

Combine one part vinegar with two parts water in a spray bottle. Spray onto windows and mirrors, then wipe with a microfiber cloth or newspaper for a spotless finish—an excellent eco-friendly method for window cleaning.

6. Removing Limescale from Bathrooms & Kitchen Surfaces

Vinegar is excellent for dissolving limescale. Mix equal parts vinegar and water and apply it to affected areas. Let sit for 30 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing. This works well on showerheads, faucets, and tile grout.

Kitchen Tools & Household Appliances

7. Disinfecting Cutting Boards & Utensils

Pour 100 ml of vinegar onto cutting boards and let sit before rinsing. This naturally removes bacteria and odors, keeping your kitchen hygienic.

8. Deep Cleaning the Dishwasher

Pour 100 ml of vinegar into the bottom of your dishwasher and run a hot cycle. This removes limescale buildup, eliminates grease, and keeps your dishwasher in top condition.

9. Deodorizing the Fridge

Wipe fridge shelves and walls with a vinegar-water solution to remove odors and bacteria. This method also works well for cleaning coffee machines and kettles.

10. Easy Microwave Cleaning

Place a bowl with 100 ml of vinegar and water in the microwave and heat on high for five minutes. The steam loosens grime, making it easy to wipe clean—a quick and simple daily cleaning trick.

Important Safety Tips for Cleaning with Vinegar

  • Avoid natural stone: Marble, granite, and limestone can be damaged by vinegar.
  • Never mix vinegar with bleach: This combination produces toxic fumes.
  • Do not use on untreated wood: Vinegar can seep into the fibers and cause discoloration.
  • Be cautious with electronics & screens: It can strip protective coatings.
  • Test on a small area first: If unsure, always test on a hidden spot before applying widely.

Eco-Friendly & Effective

By incorporating vinegar into your cleaning routine, you can keep your home fresh in a natural and sustainable way. At Effektstäd, we believe that professional cleaning can be combined with environmentally friendly choices.

We offer everything from regular home cleaning and office cleaning to deep cleaning and move-out cleaning. Want more home cleaning tips or professional assistance? Contact us—we’re here to make your everyday life easier!

Eric Davidsson

CEO

About Eric

Hi! I’m Eric, CEO of Effektstäd and your go-to expert on everything related to cleaning. With over 15 years of experience in the industry, I have a deep understanding of the challenges and solutions involved in both residential and commercial cleaning. Together with my team, I’ve been part of hundreds of diverse cleaning assignments, all with successful outcomes. My passion lies in delivering top-quality and tailored cleaning solutions that meet our customers’ unique needs. My drive for efficiency and customer satisfaction motivates me to continuously improve and develop our services. Follow our blog where I share practical tips, advice, and insights to make your daily life a little easier and your home or office sparkling clean.
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