10 Ways to Use Vinegar

My two go-to cleaners have always been vinegar and baking soda.

I share 10 Uses for Baking Soda a while back and figured it was time to share some ways to Use Vinegar too!

Vinegar is one of the most versatile and affordable staples you can keep in your pantry.

From cleaning to self-care, this simple ingredient has countless practical uses.

Here are ten clever ways to make the most of vinegar around your home.

Clean Your Bath with Baking Soda and Vinegar

Sprinkle baking soda generously on the bathtub surface, then spray or pour vinegar over it.

Let the fizzing action break down soap scum and grime. Scrub with a sponge and rinse thoroughly.

Make sure to open a window for ventilation while cleaning.

Clear Up and Prevent Bruises

Soak a piece of cotton or gauze in vinegar and apply it to bruised or sore areas.

Let it sit for about an hour to help reduce discoloration and inflammation.

Brighten Your Laundry

Skip the expensive bleach alternatives.

Add ½ cup of white vinegar to your wash cycle to brighten and refresh your clothes, reds, blues, greens, and whites included.

READ: More Ways to Save Money on Laundry

Hot Vinegar Drain Cleaner

Pour a quarter cup each of baking soda and vinegar down slow drains.

Let it fizz for around 15 minutes, then rinse with hot (preferably boiling) water.

This method helps clear minor clogs without harsh chemicals.

Frost-Proof Your Windows

Spray a solution of three parts vinegar to one part water on your car’s windshield and windows before the cold hits.

This can help slow frost buildup and make de-icing faster in the morning.

Deodorizer for Trunk and Closets

To freshen musty spaces, soak a piece of plain white bread in vinegar and place it on a plate in the area overnight.

The vinegar helps neutralize odors while the bread absorbs the scent.

Clean Fresh Produce

Make a safe produce wash by combining 1 tablespoon of white vinegar with 1 ½ quarts of water.

Soak fruits and vegetables for a few minutes before rinsing to remove dirt and surface residue.

Remove Rust from Tools

Submerge rusty hand tools, like old hammers or screwdrivers, in a container of undiluted vinegar for a few days.

The acetic acid helps dissolve rust, making cleanup easier.

Streak-Free Window Cleaner

Mix 2 cups of water, ¼ cup of white vinegar, and ½ teaspoon of dish soap in a spray bottle.

Use it to clean windows or glass surfaces for a clear, streak-free shine.

Keep Pests Off Your Pets

For a natural flea deterrent, mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle.

Lightly mist your pet’s coat, avoiding the face, to help keep fleas and pests at bay.

Note that cats may resist the smell more than dogs

Bonus Tip: Eco-Friendly Uses from Around the Web

Experts recommend even more smart uses for vinegar, such as polishing silverware, softening laundry, unclogging drains, extending the life of cut flowers, and tackling hard water buildup—all using a natural, inexpensive ingredient.

Why These Tips Work

Vinegar is an amazing frugal staple with endless practical uses, from deep cleaning to freshening your home, and even personal care.

It’s a small investment that delivers big value.

Which of these vinegar tricks will you try first?