White vinegar is an effective and inexpensive product that can be used to clean your entire home. It is just as effective as chemical cleaning products, without polluting the environment. However, it is important to know that some surfaces and objects are not suitable for cleaning with white vinegar. Here is a list of key mistakes to avoid when using this versatile product.
Waxed furniture and floors
It is best to avoid cleaning waxed floors or any type of waxed items with white vinegar.. Indeed, vinegar damages the surface by dissolving the wax and removing its natural protection.
Electronic screens
Tablets, smartphones or laptops, it is strongly recommended not to use a cloth soaked in white vinegar on these surfaces. The vinegar build-up can change the anti-reflective properties of the screen and cause them irreparable damage.
- Never use white vinegar on television screens, tablets or computers
- Choose specialized solutions dedicated to cleaning screens
Cat and dog urine
In case of accidents on the carpet, there is no point in cleaning dog or cat urine stains with white vinegar. In fact, the acid in vinegar does not dissolve urine particles properly and risks retaining more odor.
Kitchen knives
Effective at removing most stubborn stains, kitchen knives can still be damaged by vinegar. Repeated contact with this solution can dull the blade and weaken its edge.
Egg stains
Although recommended for removing some stains, white vinegar should be avoided for egg stains. These contain proteins that get deposited on contact with the acetic acid present in the vinegar, making it more difficult to remove.
Delicate fabrics
According to some grandma tips, white vinegar will be ideal for removing stains. However, because vinegar is a weak acid, it can react with the metal of the iron soleplate and corrode it. This makes the surface rough and uneven, which can damage the fabric you are ironing.
Peter substances
Since white vinegar is a weak acid, it can react with and corrode certain metals, including tin. By cleaning your pewter trinkets with white vinegar, You risk damaging the surfaces and making them less attractive or even unusable.
Appliances with aluminum elements
Household appliances such as coffee makers, kettles or even blenders, which contain aluminum elements, should not be cleaned with white vinegar. The acidity of vinegar can react with aluminum and cause corrosion, which can affect the appearance and proper operation of the appliance.
Painted or lacquered surfaces
It is not recommended to use white vinegar on painted or lacquered surfaces, such as painted walls or lacquered furniture. Vinegar can actually dissolve paint and discolor these surfaces, causing them to lose their shine and neat appearance.
White vinegar is an economical and ecological product that offers many benefits for household cleaning. However, it is not suitable for all surfaces and objects. Take care to avoid the mistakes listed above to avoid damaging your goods and preserve their lifespan.
