Can You Use Vinegar on Bathroom Sink Fixtures?

Use vinegar on bathroom fixtures to clean, shine and eliminate bacteria and mildew.

Vinegar is a safe and effective product to use on bathroom sink fixtures. It can also be used in other areas of the bathroom including the bathtub, shower, toilet, counters, floors and mirrors. While different types of vinegar are available for purchase, use only a high-quality or name-brand distilled white vinegar for cleaning these types of fixtures.

Benefits

Vinegar, a natural alternative to harsh chemical cleaners, is safe to use in households with children and pets. Vinegar costs less than most chemical cleaners and is effective for cleaning bathroom sink fixtures. Additionally, using vinegar to clean around the sink, bathtub and toilet will help to kill germs, bacteria and mold.

Fixture Types

Bathroom sink fixtures come in a variety of materials. Many modern fixtures are made from some type of plastic with a silver coating to make them easier to clean and more durable. Other fixtures are made out of coated ceramic, brass, wood, chrome or porcelain. Vinegar is safe and effective to use on all types of fixtures, although some materials may require more scrubbing or applications to completely clean and shine them. Brass, for example, requires a combination of vinegar and baking soda for best results.

Method

In a small container or bucket, mix 1 part white distilled vinegar and 3 parts water. Soak a rag or soft cloth in the solution and wipe the fixtures. For tough, stuck-on spots and dirt, saturate the fixture and let it sit for a couple minutes before wiping clean. Use an old toothbrush or other soft brush dipped in the solution to clean in cracks and other hard-to-reach areas. Wipe the area clean with a damp cloth soaked in the solution and allow the fixtures to air dry. No rinsing is required. Use a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar for cleaning wood fixtures, followed by an application of equal parts vinegar and olive oil to shine and preserve the wood.

Effectiveness

Heavily soiled fixtures may take more scrubbing and cleaning. Try cleaning these areas with pure, undiluted vinegar first. If tough spots remain, make a thick paste of baking soda and water. Run the area with the mixture, pressing firmly in problem areas. Wipe off excess baking soda, then wipe the fixture with the vinegar mixture and allow to air dry. To prevent mildew growth and kill bacteria, spray the area with full-strength distilled white vinegar and let it air dry.

References

• Vinegar: 1001 Practical Household Uses