The Many Virtures of Vinegar

I love a natural cleaning solution. With allergies and sensitivities to chemicals so prevalent these days, it’s a relief when we can take a step back in time and find a safe and effective cleaning product. Enter Vinegar.

Safe- Check!

Effective- Check!

Inexpensive- Double Check!

Because I appreciate this humble liquid so much, I’ve included some ideas below for its best uses, as well as a few times you should absolutely never use it! Below are all made with white vinegar:

1. Cleaning Windows- To make your windows sparkle and shine, use a 50/50 mixture of  vinegar & water, spray, and wipe with a microfiber cloth or even newspaper!
2. Descaling Coffeemakers- Add 2/3 vinegar to 1/3 water to your automatic coffeemaker’s water reservoir. Brew the pot and let sit 20 or so minutes. Dump and rinse the carafe, and brew a full pot of clean water to remove residue.
3. De-Gunk the Microwave- Place a microwave safe bowl of 1/4 c vinegar and 1/2 c water in your microwave and heat for 2 to 3 minutes. The steam should make any stuck on food easy to wipe away with a clean cloth.
4. Freshen Your Fridge- You can keep a spray bottle of a 50/50 vinegar & water mixture in your fridge to be right at hand for any spills as well as to disinfect and remove odors.

Despite the amazing nature of vinegar, there are times you should absolutely not use it to clean your home. Below is a link to an insightful article highlighting these times:

Apartment Therapy- 4 Places You Shouldn’t Use Vinegar At Home

Happy Cleaning!

-Karen