Can you use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar?

Author: Dr. Melyssa Tromp PhD  |  Last update: Sunday, February 9, 2025

White vinegar substitute: If you need a different vinegar to substitute for white vinegar, use apple cider vinegar or malt vinegar. You could also swap in lemon or lime juice, depending on your recipe. When you're canning or pickling, there are no comparable substitutes.

What happens if I use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar?

1 Answer 1 It may slightly alter the flavor (maybe in a positive way!). It shouldn't cause any negative chemical problems in the recipe. I sub different vinegars regularly and I haven't had any troubles.

What is a good substitute for white vinegar?

  • Apple Cider Vinegar : This has a similar acidity level and a slightly fruity flavor.
  • Lemon Juice : The acidity in lemon juice can mimic that of vinegar.
  • Rice Vinegar : This is milder than white vinegar but can work in a pinch.
  • Balsamic Vinegar
  • Cream of Tartar
  • Buttermilk or Yogurt

Can I use apple cider vinegar for cleaning?

Yes, apple cider vinegar can be used for cleaning due to its natural antibacterial properties and acidity. Here are some common uses: All-Purpose Cleaner: Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water in a spray bottle. This solution can be used to clean countertops, sinks, and other surfaces.

Can I substitute apple cider vinegar for white vinegar in pickles?

Yes, you can substitute apple cider vinegar for white vinegar in this recipe. Apple cider vinegar has a more mellow, fruity flavor, but it does tend to darken the pickles some.

Apple Cider Vinegar vs White Vinegar: The Big Difference

Can I use apple cider vinegar in pickle?

Because apple cider vinegar is made from apples rather than barley, corn rice or wine, it gives pickles a mellower taste. Using a white distilled vinegar, for example, will create a harsher flavour. But as well as being gentler on your palate, using apple cider vinegar also adds health benefits to pickles.

Which is better for you, pickle juice or apple cider vinegar?

Pickle juice, with its electrolyte-balancing properties, may be beneficial for muscle cramps and blood sugar regulation. On the other hand, apple cider vinegar may aid digestion and promote general wellness.

Can I use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar to clean a washing machine?

One of the best uses for the product is refreshing appliances that might not get cleaned as often as they should, such as dishwashers and washing machines. For either one, start with an empty machine and let the cycle run with apple cider vinegar to clear the interior of any bacteria or grime.

Is apple cider vinegar better to clean with than white vinegar?

The main downside to using apple cider vinegar to clean is that it has a higher sugar content than distilled white vinegar, and therefore can leave a sticky residue behind after cleaning with it. To avoid this, rinse surfaces well with water after using apple cider vinegar to clean.

What to use if you don't have white vinegar for cleaning?

Like vinegar, baking soda is a kitchen staple that you can use for your cleaning chores. However, baking soda is not acidic but alkaline, so it's safe to use it on surfaces like marble.

Does apple cider vinegar go bad?

Due to its highly acidic nature, apple cider vinegar is self-preserving and doesn't ever really go bad. However, when you buy a bottle at the store, you'll still find an expiration date printed on the label. This is because the FDA requires manufacturers to do so.

What is the same as white vinegar?

Substitutes for white vinegar: White vinegar is known for its acidity and sharp, sour taste. For cooking, white vinegar could be substituted with apple cider vinegar or malt vinegar—or sometimes even lemon or lime juice. For pickling or canning, it's best to stick with actual white vinegar.

Is white vinegar or apple cider vinegar better for your skin?

White vinegar is stronger and may be effective for occasional deep cleansing or addressing fungal issues, but it's best used with caution. Ultimately, your skin type and specific concerns should guide your choice, with ACV being the more versatile, skin-friendly option for most.

Can I use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar to clean fruit?

Making a vinegar fruit wash is very simple and requires only a few ingredients and tools. To start, combine 1 cup of either distilled white vinegar or apple cider vinegar with 4 cups of water. To add a bit of citrus flavor, add one tablespoon of lemon juice, too.

Can you use apple cider vinegar for cleaning floors?

Apple cider vinegar has a similar acidity to white vinegar, so you can certainly swap one for the other in DIY floor cleaning solutions. Some people prefer the scent of one to the other, though you can add a couple drops of essential oil to either one for a more pleasant smell.

What should you not clean with apple cider vinegar?

Here are some warnings to avoid: You should not use ACV on varnished or waxed wood furniture, wood cabinets, hardwood floors, or natural stone like granite, quartz, travertine, limestone, fabrics, aluminum, copper, or cast iron. ACV can dissolve the finishes, etch, pit, and rust these items.

Is white vinegar and apple cider vinegar interchangeable?

Ideally, you'd use another type of vinegar to replace ACV as they also contain acetic acid. White vinegar makes a great replacement for apple cider vinegar as it has a neutral flavour profile. This means it shouldn't affect the flavour of your final bake, compared to if you'd used ACV.

Which vinegar is best for cooking?

I consider cider vinegar a good, all-purpose vinegar. It's inexpensive, versatile and not quite as aggressive as white vinegar because of its subtle, but not overpowering, fruitiness. It works just as well uncooked, such as in vinaigrettes or pickles, as it does cooked. Try it in barbecue sauces or glazes.

What are the side effects of apple cider vinegar on hair?

Apple cider vinegar might dry out your hair. The risk would be higher if you leave it in your hair without washing it out or if you use a large amount without also using other, more pH-balanced (acid/base balanced), water-based products.

Should you use white vinegar or apple cider vinegar for pickles?

Apple cider vinegar made from fermented apple juice is a good choice for many pickles. It has a mellow, fruity flavor that blends well with spices. But it will darken most vegetables and fruits. Cider vinegar may be substituted for white vinegar of the same acidity.

Why does my stomach hurt after drinking pickle juice?

High sodium: Too much salt can lead to water retention, swelling, and bloating. Raised blood pressure: Water retention from eating large amounts of salt can increase blood pressure. Indigestion: Drinking too much pickle juice can lead to gas, stomach pain, and diarrhea.

Which is more effective lemon water or apple cider vinegar?

The choice depends on your needs. ACV curbs appetite, regulates blood sugar, and aids digestion, while lemon water boosts metabolism, hydrates, and suits sensitive stomachs with a milder flavor.

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