Vinegar is found in every household. People love to use it for dressing salad, noodles, and other food items. But did you know you can use vinegar for floor cleaner and carpets?
Yes, many homeowners have used this ingredient to mop their floors clean. Vinegar is acidic and can kill germs and remove stubborn stains. It has a pH of 2.5 and effectively dissolves grime and mineral deposits like rust stains. Though CDC does not yet approve it, it is trusted by many homeowners. In addition, it also has disinfecting properties – which gives it a plus point and the best reason to use it for cleaning floors. You must note that vinegar is not for all floor types. So, before you put it to use, understand what floor can handle its acidic nature.
Below are the floors that you can clean with vinegar –
Porcelain and Linoleum
Porcelain and linoleum floors are hard and solid surfaces. Hence, vinegar can be very effective in cleaning these surfaces. You don’t have to dilute vinegar before on a hard surface. However, diluting it before using it has several benefits – like it is more gentle on grouts, and some even believe that diluting vinegar in water enhances its potency in cleaning.
All you need to do is soak a mopping cloth in a bucket of water with vinegar and wring it properly, then mop the floor to get a shiny surface.
Hardwood, Ceramics, and Stone
It is best to use a diluted concentration of vinegar mixed with water which is – 1 cup of vinegar and 1 liter of water. However, avoid vinegar on these surfaces as it might lead to dullness.
Can We Use White Food Grade Vinegar for Floor Cleaner?
White food-grade vinegar is one of the best options for cleaning the floor. Also, there are many health benefits of white vinegar. Here’s how to use white vinegar for floor cleaner –
Vinegar for Floor Cleaner
Vinegar can be used on almost every hard-surfaced floor, including tile, laminate, and wooden floors. Follow the steps below to clean your floors with vinegar –
- Vacuum your floor thoroughly to remove dust, dirt, or debris. This is because they can scratch the surface of the floor while mopping.
- Mix 1/2 cup of distilled white vinegar with half a liter of water.
- Put the cleaning solution in the spray bottle over the stain or dirt.
- If you use a mop ensure to wring it properly so there is no excess water.
- Once you are done, let it dry properly – air dry.
Vinegar to Clean Carpets
Vinegar is a multipurpose ingredient and can also be used to clean carpet stains. Here’s how you can do it –
- Make carpet cleaning solutions using vinegar, water, and baking soda.
- Use 2 cups of warm water, 2 tablespoons of white vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of baking soda.
- Put the mixture in a spray bottle.
- Spray the cleaning solution on the stains after the fizz settles.
- Blot it with blotting paper or a microfiber towel. Do not scrub or rub the carpet, as it might damage the fibers.
- Also, you can use baking soda on the stain before treating it with white vinegar.
Using DIY cleaners for carpets and floors is always best, as it saves money.
Can We Use Apple Cider Vinegar for Floor Cleaner?
Vinegar is one of the most inexpensive alternatives to harsh cleaners. You can use apple cider vinegar if you do not have white vinegar at home. It offers the same benefits as white vinegar but has a more pleasant smell. The acidic properties of both kinds of vinegar are the same and can be used as a disinfectant, and is biodegradable and non-toxic.
All you need to do is prepare a vinegar for floor cleaner solution, spray it all over the stains on the floor and carpet, and blot it. Here’s how you can make the cleaning solution –
- Take 1 cup of apple cider vinegar and 1 liter of water
- Mix it well and spray it all over the stains.
- Blot and let it air dry.
What Things to Keep in Mind While Using Vinegar for Floor Cleaners?
Vinegar is best used with water, a dishwasher, and baking soda. So, do not mix it with other potent ingredients, such as bleaching powder. This is because the fumes emitted from the solution might be toxic, and if you have breathing problems, it can be deadly.
If you have a stubborn stain on the floor and carpet, sprinkle baking soda on it, leave it for a few minutes, and blot it with a microfiber mop or towel. However, vinegar for floor cleaner is best when used with water.
Conclusion
Vinegar is one of the most effective cleaning agents in your home. But, due to its acidic nature, it cannot be used on granite or marble floors. You can not use it on waxed or unfinished wooden floors. Also, remember not to use vinegar on carpet fibers such as wool and silk. With just a little precaution, you can use vinegar for floor cleaner effectively without causing harm to your home sweet home.
