Cleaning with vinegar

White vinegar is one of the most useful things in an organic cleaning kit — a mild acid that cuts through grease, mineral scale and everyday grime without leaving a chemical residue behind.

What vinegar is good for

• Streak-free glass and mirrors, diluted with water in a spray bottle
• Descaling kettles, taps and showerheads (soak in equal parts vinegar and water)
• Cutting through grease on stovetops and range hoods
• Deodorising bins, microwaves and drains
• Freshening laundry as a fabric-softener alternative

What to avoid

• Natural stone (marble, granite, limestone) — the acid can etch and dull the surface
• Waxed or unsealed timber floors — it can strip the finish over time
• Cast iron and some metals — it can cause pitting with repeated use
• Mixing with bleach — this produces harmful chlorine gas

How we use it

On commercial jobs, a diluted vinegar solution handles glass, stainless steel and general degreasing without leaving fumes behind in an occupied office or clinic. For NDIS clients, it's a good fit where sensory sensitivity to strong chemical smells is a concern — vinegar's smell fades quickly once dry.