You have likely used vinegar in your kitchen to dress a salad, or maybe to make a quick pickle. If you’re a little more environmentally conscious, you might have used it to clean your counters as well.
But have you ever considered using it in your laundry? Vinegar provides an inexpensive alternative that is healthier for you, your family, and the environment.
Distilled white vinegar has many uses, and when used in your regular laundry routine it can remove stains, soften hardened towels, and get rid of odors.
How Does Vinegar Work as a Cleaning Agent?
Vinegar is very acidic, which is why it’s such an effective cleaning agent. With a pH of 2.5, the white distilled stuff is best suited for household cleaning, and this acidity can dissolve away soap scum, hard water stains, and even glue left behind by stickers [1,2].
It is important to note that the pH will vary depending on the type being used. For instance, cleaning vinegar, which has concentrations up to 10% acetic acid has a pH of approximately 2.0 [3]. For laundry purposes, it is best to stick with a regular 5% solution.