10 ways I use white vinegar to clean my home-from limescale to laundry

White vinegar is a versatile household product composed of acetic acid and water. It can be purchased for as little as 30p from supermarkets and is used for a variety of jobs around the home. I've used it for years, and over this time, I've discovered where it works well and where it doesn't.

It's always important to test a small area before cleaning with white vinegar. It is an acidic product, and if left on an area for too long, it can cause more harm than good. With this in mind, here are 10 ways I use the product around my home.

1. Kettle cleaning

White vinegar effectively cleans kettles by dissolving limescale and mineral deposits due to its mild acidity.

The product reacts with the limescale, breaking it down and making it easier to remove. This process helps restore the appliance's efficiency and removes unpleasant tastes from your drinks.

2. Window cleaning

When combined with water, white vinegar creates a solution that can be sprayed onto windows and wiped away, leaving a streak-free shine.

The acidity dissolves mineral deposits and dirt, while the wiping action removes the loosened particles. If you're not a fan of the vinegar scent, try dropping some washing-up liquid into the mix.

3. Drains

Thanks to the acetic acid, drains will become unclogged within minutes when flushing down white vinegar. If you think you have a hair or grease blockage, simply flush the drain with hot water after adding white vinegar to loosen the clog.

4. Fridge cleaner

The household product can break down odours, grease, and grime that can sometimes be present in fridges that haven't been cleaned regularly.

Simply dilute it with water and wipe it across the shelves and doors for a fresh, clean fridge.

5. Laundry

When added to laundry and washing machines, white vinegar can help break down detergent build-up on towels, leaving them super fluffy.

It can also be used as a pre-soak treatment to remove stubborn clothing stains and brighten dull socks.

6. Toilet cleaning

Simply pour white vinegar into the toilet bowl, ensuring it reaches under the rim. Let it sit for a few hours, scrub the bowl, and watch the limescale fall off.

For stubborn stains, you can repeat the process or use a combination of vinegar and baking soda.

7. Killing weeds

The acid content damages and dries out plant cells, causing the foliage to wither and die, making it perfect for weeds.

Simply pour vinegar onto the weeds, preferably on a sunny day, and watch the weeds wither before pulling them up.

8. Shower heads

Cleaning shower heads with vinegar is simple. Pour white vinegar into a clear bag and tie it around the shower head. If you have a detachable one, place it in the bag with the vinegar.

Leave it to work for around 10 minutes before rinsing it and scrubbing with an old toothbrush if needed.

9. Cleaning mugs

White vinegar cleans mugs by dissolving and lifting stubborn stains, such as those from coffee and tea, also known as tannins.

Fill the mug halfway with hot water and then top it up with white vinegar. Leave it to soak for 10 minutes, and then lightly scrub the affected areas before rinsing.

10. Patio cleaning

When used on a patio, white vinegar can help break down dirt, grime, and moss and eliminate algae growth on various patio surfaces.

Test on an inconspicuous area before cleaning the whole patio, as some patio surfaces should not be cleaned with the product.