The Cleaning Wonders of White Vinegar and Sodium Bicarbonate

White vinegar and sodium bicarbonate, commonly known as baking soda, are not just kitchen staples for cooking and baking. They are also powerful, eco-friendly cleaning agents that can tackle a wide variety of household chores. Here are ten ways you can use these versatile ingredients for cleaning, along with the recommended amounts for each use.

Note: We would always recommend trying a small amount of any cleaning product on a less conspicuous part of surface you intend to clean to ensure there is no unexpected reaction with any unknown material in the surface.

1. All-Purpose Cleaner

Mix a solution of 250ml (1 cup) of white vinegar with 500ml (2 cups) of water in a spray bottle. For added cleaning power, add a few drops of your favourite essential oil. This all-purpose cleaner is great for countertops, sinks, and general surface cleaning.

2. Unclogging Drains

Pour 120g (half a cup) of baking soda down the drain, followed by 250ml (1 cup) of white vinegar. Allow the mixture to fizz and work for about 10-15 minutes, then flush with boiling water. This helps to clear minor clogs and freshen the drain.

3. Cleaning the Oven

Sprinkle baking soda generously over the bottom of the oven. Spray or pour white vinegar over the baking soda until it starts to fizz. Let it sit for 30 minutes to an hour, then scrub and wipe clean. Use about 120g (half a cup) of baking soda and 250ml (1 cup) of vinegar.

4. Deodorising Carpets

Sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda over the carpet and let it sit for 15-20 minutes to absorb odours. Vacuum thoroughly to remove the baking soda. Use about 240g (1 cup) of baking soda for an average-sized room.

5. Cleaning Grout

Make a paste using 60g (4 tablespoons) of baking soda and 60ml (4 tablespoons) of water. Apply the paste to the grout and spray with white vinegar. Let it fizz for a few minutes, then scrub with a brush and rinse with water.

6. Refreshing Laundry

Add 120ml (half a cup) of white vinegar during the rinse cycle to soften fabrics and remove odours. For an extra boost, add 60g (4 tablespoons) of baking soda to the wash cycle.

7. Polishing Silver

Line a sink or bowl with aluminium foil, shiny side up. Place tarnished silver items on the foil. Mix 120g (half a cup) of baking soda and 250ml (1 cup) of white vinegar in a kettle of boiling water, then pour over the silver items. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, rinse, and dry.

8. Cleaning a Microwave

Place 120ml (half a cup) of white vinegar and 120ml (half a cup) of water in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 5 minutes, then wipe down the interior with a damp cloth. The steam will loosen grime and deodorise the microwave.

9. Descaling a Kettle

Fill the kettle with a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water (250ml of each for a 500ml kettle). Bring to a boil, then let it sit for an hour. Rinse thoroughly with fresh water to remove any vinegar taste.

10. Removing Stains from Mugs and Teapots

Make a paste with 60g (4 tablespoons) of baking soda and a few drops of water. Rub the paste onto the stains, let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then scrub and rinse. For tougher stains, soak the mugs in a solution of 120ml (half a cup) of vinegar and 250ml (1 cup) of water overnight before applying the paste.

By incorporating white vinegar and baking soda into your cleaning routine, you can achieve sparkling results without relying on harsh chemicals. These simple, natural ingredients are not only effective but also budget-friendly, making them an ideal choice for maintaining a clean and healthy home.