Vinegar: the Magical Kitchen Cleaner

Most people are now aware of how important it is to take measures to help preserve and protect the environment. This has led to a significant increase in the demand for natural cleaning products and solutions. White vinegar is one of the most commonly used natural cleaners in households across America due to its seemingly magical cleaning properties.

Vinegar is safe, easy to use, inexpensive, and seems to have a million different uses, so it offers an incredible value for any homeowner. It also safely kills bacteria, mold, and germs, making it just as effective, or more effective, than the harmful generic brands you typically find at your local grocery or hardware store. Some of the best ways to use vinegar include the following:

• Garbage disposal - vinegar can help to cut through even the worst odors. Ice can deodorize and clean your garbage disposal, while sharpening the blades. Consider making vinegar ice cubes and grinding them in your disposal to enjoy optimum benefits.

• Bathroom and kitchen drains - pour vinegar in the bathroom and kitchen drains and let stand about 30 minutes before running cold water to help cut through tough buildup and odors.

• Removing grease - remove grease from kitchen walls, appliances, and cooking pans and utensils by placing vinegar on a sponge or dishcloth and gently rubbing it in a circular motion. You can also add a few tablespoons of vinegar to soapy dish water to help quickly wash greasy pans or dishes.

• Drain clogs - dumping one cup of baking soda followed by one cup of white vinegar down the drain can power through even the toughest drain clogs.

• Coffee pot - place about one part vinegar and two parts water in your coffee pot and run a cycle. Repeat a cycle with water to clear out any lingering vinegar. This will clean and sanitize your coffee pot, resulting in better tasting coffee and a cleaner pot overall.

• Dishwasher - about once a month, place a cup of white vinegar in the top rack of your dishwasher and run through a full cycle. Once the cycle has completed, sprinkle baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher and run again. This will help to safely clean, disinfect, and deodorize your dishwasher.

While white vinegar can be associated with a pungent smell, it should quickly dissipate and will not leave a lasting odor. For more plumbing answers and information on how you can naturally clean your home, call an experienced, licensed and insured Roto-Rooter plumber.