Why Is Vinegar Good for Cleaning?

Vinegar is natural and safe to use on many surfaces.

Vinegar is effective in cleaning a multitude of bacteria, grime and buildup on many items and surfaces. This simple cleaning agent is very versatile. It is easily obtainable at many stores, and many people even make this product at home.

Composition

Vinegar is a natural household cleaning agent that is safe to use on many surfaces. It is made of fruits and other foods that contain sugar. These sugars, or carbohydrates, turn into acid through decomposition by microorganisms.

Effectiveness

Due to the acidity of vinegar, it is effective in killing bacteria and germs. The acidity is also the reason vinegar is so effective at killing mold. Each bottle of vinegar contains only 4 percent acidity, as mandated by the Food and Drug Administration. However, vinegar is highly effective even at this low acidity level.

Safety

While effective in cleaning, vinegar will not strip color from surfaces or leave behind stains, as bleach or other chemicals would. It is also safe for the environment due to its natural manufacturing method.

References

• The Vinegar Institute: Frequently Asked Questions
• Vinegar Tips: Cleaning with Vinegar
• The Vinegar Institute: Today's Vinegar