Distilled white vinegar is an often overlooked, yet powerful cleaning tool that can be found right in your cupboard. Made of acetic acid, vinegar is a natural disinfectant that can effectively kill some common germs like salmonella and E. coli, but it's best used in combination with antibacterial soap and water to ensure all germs are eliminated.

A gallon of distilled white vinegar, like the popular Heinz brand, can be found for only $13 on Amazon, and the vinegar odor will quickly evaporate. For those still concerned about the smell, adding some citrus peels or essential oils can neutralize it. The recommended dilution for most cleaning applications is a 1:1 ratio of water to vinegar, which will ensure the acid strength is not too intense or damaging. The mixture can be stored in a jar or a spray bottle for easy access. You can find cleaning vinegar easily at Walmart. 

In the kitchen, white vinegar can be used to clean a wide variety of surfaces and items. For example, you can use a diluted 1:1 ratio of vinegar and water in a spray bottle to clean and disinfect your kitchen sink, counters, or any other areas where you would normally use bleach but want a food-safe alternative. Simply spritz and then rinse with soapy water to counteract the vinegar odor.

Floors can also be cleaned with a 1:1 mix of vinegar and water, which will protect them from a too-strong concentration of acidic vinegar while lifting off grease and dirt. For a greasy stovetop, vinegar's acidity makes it easy to cut through grease. Simply spray a mixture of vinegar and water, let it sit for 10 minutes, and then scrub down with soapy water. If needed, leave the mixture to sit for a bit longer for tough grease.

In conclusion, distilled white vinegar is an affordable and versatile cleaning solution for your kitchen and beyond. So, next time you're feeling overwhelmed by the endless options in the cleaning aisle, consider reaching for this natural, effective cleaner.

You might think you need a whole arsenal of cleaning products for every surface in your home, but trust us, vinegar is all you really need. White vinegar has proven to be a boss when it comes to cleaning. It can:

Tackle grease with ease
Wipe out limescale from fixtures, sinks, and toilets
Slay bacteria and viruses like a pro
Not only is it effective, but it's also safe to use. So, if you're wary of using bleach or ammonia in enclosed spaces, vinegar is your best bet. It won't harm you while you clean. Get ready to experience the sponkiest cleaning with this all-in-one solution!

Sheet pans - Give your sheet pans a sparkle with a solution of half baking soda and half white vinegar mixed with hot water. Soak for 30 minutes to an hour for easy cleaning.

Stainless Steel pots and pans - Make your stainless steel shine by boiling a mixture of water and vinegar, which dissolves grease and removes stains. Simply rinse with soap and water after.

Enamel pots and pans - Keep your enamel cookware looking its best by boiling a solution of water and vinegar to dissolve stains. A quick wash with soap and water will do the rest.

Microwave - Quickly and easily clean your microwave by mixing equal parts of water and vinegar in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 5 minutes to steam away any gunk, then wipe clean.

Coffee makers and tea kettles - Get rid of mineral buildup with a solution of equal parts water and vinegar. Simply pour into the water reservoir or kettle, and rinse thoroughly with water after.

Blender or Food Processor - Give your blender or food processor a fresh start by blending a solution of water and vinegar, then washing as normal.

Instant Pot sealing ring - Keep your Instant Pot sealing ring fresh by soaking in a mixture of water and vinegar. Wash with soap, dry and air out for best results.

Stained tea or coffee cups - Revive stained tea or coffee cups with a solution of equal parts water and vinegar. Simply soak and rinse with water.

Windows and mirrors - Make your windows and mirrors sparkle with a solution of equal parts water and vinegar. Simply spray, wipe, and dry for a streak-free shine.

Carpet stains and upholstery - Tackle tough carpet stains and upholstery with a solution of equal parts water and vinegar. Simply spray, blot, and let dry for a clean finish.