10 Things You Should Absolutely Never Clean With Vinegar

Vinegar is a staple in my cleaning arsenal, and I bet it’s in yours too. It’s natural, it’s cheap, and it feels like it can tackle anything from a grimy countertop to a clouded-over coffee pot.

But as much as I love turning to this trusty friend, there are times when it just doesn’t cut it—or worse, it backfires.

Despite what we’ve all heard about vinegar being a universal solution, there are certain things you should think twice about before dousing them. Here are 10 items that you should definitely keep off the vinegar cleaning list to avoid any cleaning mishaps.

Dishwashers

While some old-school tricks suggest using vinegar to clean your dishwasher, it’s time to rethink that approach. Although vinegar can sometimes help with odors, it’s not great at removing hard-water film or water spots and can even damage the rubber components inside your machine.

Instead of relying on vinegar, opt for a specialized dishwasher cleaner like those from Affresh or Finish. These products are designed to effectively remove buildup and can help extend the life of your dishwasher without any of the risks associated with using vinegar.

Clothes Irons

Adding vinegar to the water tank of your clothes iron is a definite no-go. The acid in vinegar can corrode the protective lining inside the iron, leading to damage that is often irreversible. For maintaining your iron, it’s best to stick to the care guidelines provided by the manufacturer.

Many modern irons come equipped with a self-clean function which involves filling the tank with water, heating the iron, and then using the self-clean setting to flush out any deposits with hot water and steam. This method ensures your iron stays in top shape without the harsh effects of vinegar.

Kitchen Knives

Think twice before reaching for vinegar to clean your kitchen knives. This acidic solution can harm the finish and even pit the edge of the blades, reducing their lifespan and effectiveness. The same caution applies to other common metals like aluminum and copper found in the kitchen.

Instead, the safest and most effective way to clean your knives is by using dishwashing liquid mixed with warm water. This gentler approach will preserve the sharpness and shine of your knives without causing any damage.

Ranges

While vinegar might not directly damage the enamel-coated metals or glass cooktops of your range, it’s not the hero you need for tackling greasy buildups. Vinegar’s acidic nature doesn’t break down grease effectively because grease itself already contains acids.

For a truly clean cooktop, especially when dealing with stubborn grease, turn to baking soda. This mild base counteracts the grease’s acidity and makes cleaning up a breeze, leaving your range spotless and functional.

Countertops

Steer clear of vinegar when it comes to cleaning most types of stone countertops like marble, granite, or limestone. The acidity in vinegar can dull the surface and break down the sealant, paving the way for stains and further damage. It’s best to follow the guidelines suited to your countertop’s material.

For stone surfaces, products like Weiman’s Granite & Stone Cleaner not only disinfect but also condition, preserving the luster and integrity of your countertops. A little soap and water can also work wonders without the risks associated with harsh chemicals.

Washing Machines

While it might be tempting to use vinegar as a natural solution for fabric softening or odor removal in your washing machine, it’s important to think twice. Frequent use of vinegar can deteriorate the rubber seals and hoses, leading to leaks that might cause extensive damage to your home.

Steven Grayson, a seasoned appliance expert, warns that vinegar can literally melt components in your washer, especially in front-load models. Instead, look to specially formulated laundry stain removers that handle tough stains effectively without jeopardizing the parts of your washing machine.

Electronic Devices

When it comes to cleaning your electronic gadgets like laptops and tablets, vinegar might seem like a quick fix for eliminating germs, but it’s actually not a friend to your devices. The acidic nature of vinegar can harm the special coatings on your screens, leading to damage that’s tricky to reverse.

To keep your tech safe and clean, use products specifically designed for electronic devices, or a clean, dry microfiber cloth can be just as effective in giving your screens a fresh look without the risk.

Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floors and vinegar are a combination you’ll want to avoid. The acidity in vinegar is harsh on the wood and the sealants that protect it. Using vinegar can gradually destroy both, leading to costly repairs or refinishing jobs. Instead, opt for cleaning products specifically designed for hardwood floors.

For example, a diluted solution of Mr. Clean Multi-Purpose Cleaner with warm water, using a 1:4 ratio, is a safer bet for maintaining the beauty and integrity of your floors.

Waxed Furniture

You might think vinegar is a one-size-fits-all solution, but hold off when it comes to your waxed furniture. This acidic wonder can gradually break down the wax coating, risking damage to pieces with sentimental or antique value.

Instead of risking your heirloom desk or those cherished nightstands from your favorite antique fair, opt for a gentle furniture polish. For something like wicker, a simple blend of soap and water will do the trick, keeping your treasures safe and sparkling.

Aluminum and Cast-Iron Pans

If you’re eyeing that bottle of vinegar to clean your kitchen pans, think again, especially if they’re made of aluminum or cast iron. The acidity of vinegar doesn’t play well with these materials, leading to corrosion and diminishing their effectiveness over time.

For aluminum pans, stick to a straightforward mix of dish soap and water—it’ll get the job done without the harmful side effects. Keep your pans in top shape and rust-free by choosing gentler cleaning alternatives.