Overall, distilled white vinegar is more versatile and affordable for cleaning, which is why we usually recommend it versus apple cider vinegar.
White vinegar is often considered a stronger cleaning agent than apple cider vinegar primarily due to its higher acetic acid concentration. Here are the key differences: Acidity: White vinegar typically contains about 5-7% acetic acid, while apple cider vinegar usually has around 4-6%.
For most cleaning tasks, white vinegar is generally preferred due to its stronger cleaning properties and lack of color. Brown vinegar can be used for less intensive cleaning or for specific tasks where its scent and properties are beneficial.
Can you use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar to do laundry? When washing fabrics, ideally white vinegar should be used. Apple cider vinegar can be used, however, if white vinegar isn't available. But dilute it with water before putting it on clothes so as to avoid staining.
To banish any bacteria, we recommend mixing one part ACV with one part water. Use this mixture to then wipe down any kitchen surfaces. As a result of the vinegar being diluted, it won't cause any damage to your surfaces but will contain enough acid to get rid of any debris or bacteria that's stuck on your surfaces.
ACV is non-toxic, biodegradable, and it is ideal for removing bacteria, mineral deposits and dirt. Kill germs and remove odors from laundry by adding one cup of ACV to each laundry load. Keep your washing machine sparkling clean by adding two cups of ACV and running an empty washer through a laundry cycle.
Vinegar has a very low pH level which means it's very acidic, so it can corrode some surfaces over time. For example, using vinegar on natural stone like granite or marble can dull and scratch the surface and it can corrode surfaces like unsealed grout, window seals, and fridge and dishwasher gaskets.
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.
Apple cider vinegar effectively cleans most of the bathroom, including the toilet. You can spray the ACV into the toilet bowl or pour about 1/2 cup into the bowl and let it sit for 15 minutes. Then, scrub as usual, and flush. Alternatively, you may add a layer of baking soda to the toilet bowl before you clean it.
Diluted with water to about 5 percent acidity, distilled white vinegar is hailed as a natural, nontoxic cleaning marvel, killing some household bacteria, dissolving hard-water deposits, and cutting through grime at a fraction of the cost of brand-name cleaning products.
You can even clean your wood floors with apple cider vinegar to add an extra shine and leave your floors looking brand new and polished. All you have to do is sweep or hoover the floor first before making a cleaning solution of apple cider vinegar and water (typically 1 cup to 1 gallon) and you'll be ready to go!
You use apple cider vinegar the same way as white vinegar, either “neat” or diluted 50:50 with water to make an all-purpose cleaner. We typically recommend diluting ACV with water for use on surfaces, tubs, sinks, to wash produce, etc. Straight vinegar may be used on cutting boards or to cut through grease.
1. Create An All-Purpose Cleaner. To create a convenient and natural multi-purpose cleaner, simply mix some water with apple cider vinegar, at a ratio of 1:1. Pour this solution into a spray bottle, and your homemade cleaning product is now ready.
Spray on mold, and leave it to dry. “The vinegar by itself will kill most molds, but if you dislike the scent of vinegar, the tea tree oil will cut that scent plus add even more anti-microbial strength,” according to the Maid Brigade.
Low potassium levels in the blood (hypokalemia): Apple cider vinegar might lower potassium levels in the blood. If your potassium is already low, apple cider vinegar might make it too low. Don't use apple cider vinegar if you have this condition.
Prolonged contact with apple cider vinegar can cause tooth erosion, discoloration, and sensitivity. Apple cider vinegar has antibacterial properties and may remove surface tooth stains. But its acidity poses risks to your teeth that outweigh the benefits.
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.
Distilled vinegar is a cheap, scientifically proven solution to many everyday household cleaning needs. From disinfecting your kitchen and bathroom to leaving your home smelling fresh, your laundry bright, and your windows sparking and streak-free, vinegar is the natural solution to many everyday cleaning problems.
Unlike white vinegar, ACV contains tannins or naturally-occurring pigments that can stain fabrics, so MacCannell suggests avoiding directly applying ACV onto clothes.
“Technically, mixing baking soda and vinegar remains functional for household cleaning, as the bubbles produced can lift stains and unclog drains,” she says. “Specifically, while the mixture is still bubbling, it is slightly alkaline and can dissolve grease, though not as effectively as using baking soda alone.