Does vinegar damage copper pipes?

Author: Makenna Kris  |  Last update: Sunday, August 10, 2025

While harmless for most metal and PVC pipes, prolonged exposure to the acidic nature of vinegar might corrode certain metals, like copper. PVC pipes, on the other hand, can withstand these substances without damage.

Can you use vinegar on copper pipes?

To create the mixture, combine equal amounts of baking soda, salt, white vinegar, and flour until it forms a paste. Then, smear the paste over the oxidized area of the pipe. Let it sit and dry for about 30 minutes.

Is vinegar bad for plumbing pipes?

Yes you can. Vinegar is a very dilute acid. It will not harm your drain plumbing nor septic system even straight from the bottle.

Does copper react to vinegar?

What does vinegar do to copper? Common vinegar, which is about 5% to 6% acetic acid in water, should do nothing to metallic copper. Copper is below hydrogen in the “activity series”, like gold and silver, so metallic copper will not displace the hydrogen contained in the acetic acid molecule.

What is the best cleaner for copper pipes?

For routine cleaning of copper and other metals, percarbonate-based cleaners like PBW are the best choice. For heavily oxidized conditions, acetic acid is very effective, especially when hot. Acetic acid is available in grocery stores as white distilled vinegar at a standard concentration of 5% acetic acid by volume.

How to Stop Copper Pipe Corrosion | Ask This Old House

What should you not clean copper with?

Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on copper items. You can use silver polish to revive dull copper.

How to make copper pipe look new again?

Key steps
  1. Wash away loose dirt first.
  2. Use a commercial metal polish if you have one to hand.
  3. If you prefer a homemade solution, mix white vinegar with salt or cream of tartar, then apply it to the pipe.
  4. Rinse and dry the pipe completely when you're done.

Can I clean a copper sink with vinegar?

For major stains or grime on your sink, a mixture of a half a cup of white vinegar and a half cup of water will help. Dip a cloth into the solution and rub away the grime or stain. The solution should then be rinsed off and dried to prevent damage to your sink's finish.

What metals are damaged by vinegar?

Tools with exposed edges, like kitchen knives, are especially vulnerable to vinegar. Cleaning knives with vinegar can damage the finish and leave the edge pitted, says Frank Spinelli, head of appliance testing for CR. Other common metals in the kitchen that you should keep away from vinegar include aluminum and copper.

How long do you leave vinegar in pipes?

This can help prevent clog-causing buildup on the interior surface of pipes. Or you can pour one cup of vinegar down the drain and let it sit for 30 minutes, followed by a rinse with two quarts of very hot water. Before putting dirty dishes, pots or pans in the dishwasher, scrape them well and rinse with cold water.

Can I clean my pipe with vinegar?

Vinegar and baking soda are both great natural cleaners for old pipes! First, pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by one cup of vinegar. Let the mixture sit for at least 30 minutes to break down any debris.

Does vinegar damage faucets?

“Faucets with black, bronze, or gold-colored coatings and finishes may get damaged or discolored by the vinegar's acidity. Vinegar also has a strong odor, though it's not toxic. However, if you're cleaning with it, it's always a good idea to ventilate the space.

Is white vinegar safe for pipes?

Yes, baking soda and vinegar can be safely used to unclog drains.

Does vinegar turn copper black?

Yes, vinegar can react with certain metals and cause them to turn black. This is often due to the formation of metal oxides or other compounds on the metal's surface.

Do green copper pipes need to be replaced?

Generally, no, green copper pipes in themselves are not a problem. Copper pipes naturally turn green over time due to environmental exposure, and it doesn't necessarily mean that there is anything wrong with your piping.

What should not be cleaned with vinegar?

But eight places you should never use vinegar include:
  1. Stone Countertops. Surfaces that often get ruined by vinegar are stone countertops, like marble and travertine. ...
  2. Dishwashers/Washing Machines. ...
  3. Clothes Iron. ...
  4. Tile Grout. ...
  5. Knives. ...
  6. Small Appliances. ...
  7. Hardwood Floors. ...
  8. Electronic Screens.

Is distilled vinegar the same as white vinegar?

White vinegar, also known as distilled vinegar or spirit vinegar, is made by fermenting grain alcohol (ethanol) which then turns into acetic acid. Water is then added to the vinegar, so white vinegar is made of five to ten percent acetic acid and ninety to ninety-five percent water.

What happens when vinegar touches copper?

When you wash old copper pennies with vinegar, the pennies react with the vinegar to form a blue compound called copper (II) acetate. Now, if you let that vinegar dry, small, black crystals will be left behind in the dish. Those are copper acetate crystals. It turns out you can grow much bigger copper acetate crystals.

Is vinegar safe for copper pipes?

The answer is that vinegar will not harm your pipes if used in small doses as recommended in many of the recipes that you find online. No matter what your pipes are made of, pex, pvc, copper, etc. Vinegar will not harm your water pipes.

Why is my copper sink turning black?

There are many reasons why discoloration occurs: harsh chemicals, long exposure to acidic materials (lemons, ketchup, toothpaste, etc.) or other types of food, general heavy use, and more. But, don't panic—it's all part of the life of your copper product.

Can you clean copper still with vinegar?

The first cleaning and vinegar run

Place the pot of your still over your heat source, and fill it to about 20% capacity with an equal mixture of water and vinegar. Assemble the parts of the still and turn on the heat without setting up your cooling process for the condenser.

How to tell if copper pipes are bad?

Signs Of Copper Piping Problems

If you suddenly have low water pressure, you may have a leak caused by copper piping corrosion. Soggy carpets or ceiling stains. These issues are another sign of a leak likely due to a corroded copper pipe. Turn off the water if possible and contact a plumber to check the situation.

Can you use CLR on copper pipes?

Calcium, Lime and Rust Remover can not only remove the finish off of brass, aluminum and copper, but can also pit certain grades of brass, copper and aluminum.

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