Apple cider vinegar (ACV) can be a useful and natural cleaning agent due to its acidic nature, which helps to break down dirt, grime, and bacteria. For cleaning purposes, you don’t necessarily need the highest quality or organic apple cider vinegar. Often, less expensive options are just as effective.
In this guide, I’ll talk about how to use apple cider vinegar for cleaning and my top brand recommendations!
What makes apple cider vinegar good for cleaning?
Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which gives it antimicrobial properties, making it effective for cleaning and disinfecting. Its natural acidity helps break down grime, grease, and mineral deposits, making it a versatile cleaner for various surfaces.
Additionally, ACV is safe, non-toxic, and environmentally friendly, unlike many commercial cleaning products.
Choosing the best apple cider vinegar for cleaning
Remember, for cleaning purposes, the difference between organic and non-organic apple cider vinegar isn’t significant. The key is the acetic acid content, which is present in all apple cider vinegars. You can often use a more affordable, lower-grade apple cider vinegar for cleaning and save higher-quality vinegar for culinary uses.
- Strength of acidity: For cleaning, you typically want a vinegar that is strong enough to be effective but not so harsh that it damages surfaces.Most commercial apple cider vinegars have an acidity level of about 5%, ideal for cleaning. A higher acidity level can be more potent but may also be more corrosive.
- Organic vs. Non-organic: Organic apple cider vinegar is made from organically grown apples and without synthetic additives. While it’s a preferred choice for consumption, the difference in cleaning efficacy between organic and non-organic ACV is minimal.
- Filtering: Unfiltered ACV contains the “mother” – strands of proteins, enzymes, and friendly bacteria. While beneficial for health, the presence of the mother doesn’t enhance the vinegar’s cleaning abilities. Filtered ACV is usually clearer and may be more aesthetically pleasing for cleaning purposes.
- Cost: Since the nuanced qualities of higher-end apple cider vinegars are not necessary for cleaning, it’s often more economical to go with a less expensive brand.
- Availability: Really, it comes down to choosing an affordable option wherever is convenient for you. Whether you shop at Whole Foods, Target, or online, go with what’s readily available.
Based on these criteria, here are a few brands that I recommend for cleaning purposes:
Amazon Fresh Apple Cider Vinegar
In a generously sized 128-ounce container, Amazon’s apple cider vinegar offers great value for the money, and is perfect for cleaning!
Heinz Apple Cider Vinegar
This is a widely available and affordable brand. Heinz is known for its consistent quality and is a good choice for various cleaning tasks.
Great Value Apple Cider Vinegar
For those looking to save money, Walmart’s Great Value brand offers a budget-friendly option that is effective for cleaning.
365 by Whole Foods Market Apple Cider Vinegar
If you prefer shopping at Whole Foods, their store brand offers a good balance of quality and price. This is a great option if you’re looking for something to double as a cooking and cleaning vinegar!
Bragg Organic Apple Cider Vinegar
While Bragg is often recommended for dietary uses due to its “with the mother” content, it can also be used for cleaning. However, it is usually more expensive than others that are just as effective for cleaning purposes. I recommend buying the gallon size for a better deal.
White House Apple Cider Vinegar
This is another brand that’s commonly found in many grocery stores and is effective for cleaning.
How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar for Cleaning
- All-purpose cleaner: Mix equal parts of ACV and water in a spray bottle. You can add a few drops of essential oil for a pleasant scent. Try this homemade all-purpose cleaner recipe!
- Glass cleaner: Mix one part ACV with one part water. Spray it on windows and mirrors, and wipe with a soft cloth for a streak-free shine.
- Disinfectant: Use ACV undiluted for areas that need a deeper clean. Its natural antibacterial properties make it effective against germs.
- Fabric softener: Add half a cup of ACV to your laundry during the rinse cycle for softer clothes.
- Deodorizer: ACV can neutralize odors. Simply place a bowl of ACV in a room, or use it in a spray to tackle unpleasant smells.
Precautions:
When using apple cider vinegar for cleaning, always dilute it with water, as its acidity can be harsh on some surfaces. It’s also a good practice to test it on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t cause damage.
Avoid using ACV on natural stone surfaces like granite or marble, as the acidity can etch the stone.
FAQs
Apple cider vinegar can be used for cleaning similarly to white vinegar, but it is slightly less acidic and may have a lingering odor.
Industrial or cleaning vinegar, typically containing around 6% to 8% acetic acid, is stronger than regular white vinegar used for cooking, which has about 5% acetic acid.
Raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar with “the mother” is considered the most effective type for potential health benefits, as it contains more enzymes, proteins, and beneficial bacteria.
A common mixture for cleaning with apple cider vinegar is a 1:1 ratio of vinegar to water, which can be adjusted depending on the cleaning task’s requirements.
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