Vinegar vs. Baking Soda: What to Use Where
When it comes to natural cleaning, vinegar and baking soda are the dynamic duo of the cleaning world. Both are powerful, affordable, and non-toxic — but they’re not interchangeable. Knowing when (and where) to use each one can make a huge difference in your cleaning results!
At Fresh Nest Cleaning, we love a good eco-friendly hack, so let’s break down the differences between these two staples and where each one truly shines.
Vinegar: The Degreaser & Deodorizer
Vinegar is acidic — which means it’s great for cutting through grime, grease, and mineral buildup. Its acidity helps dissolve soap scum, hard water stains, and even sticky residues.
Best Uses for Vinegar:
Glass & Mirrors: Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle for a streak-free shine.
Kitchens: Great for cleaning stainless steel, cutting boards, and countertops (just avoid marble or granite).
Bathrooms: Removes soap scum and water spots from faucets and shower doors.
Laundry: Add a cup to your rinse cycle to remove odors and soften clothes naturally.
Appliances: Use it to descale your coffee maker, dishwasher, or iron.
What Not to Clean with Vinegar:
Avoid using vinegar on natural stone (like granite, marble, or limestone), waxed wood, and electronics/screens — the acid can cause damage or dull surfaces.
Baking Soda: The Gentle Scrubber
Baking soda is a mild alkaline powder that acts as a gentle abrasive and natural deodorizer. It’s perfect for tackling tough messes without scratching surfaces.
Best Uses for Baking Soda:
Ovens: Mix baking soda with a little water to make a paste — it lifts baked-on grease without harsh chemicals.
Sinks & Tubs: Sprinkle and scrub for a sparkling, fresh-smelling clean.
Carpets: Deodorize by sprinkling it on, letting it sit, then vacuuming.
Trash Cans & Fridge: Neutralizes bad odors naturally.
Silverware & Jewelry: Combine with water for a gentle polish that removes tarnish.
What Not to Clean with Baking Soda:
Avoid using baking soda on aluminum cookware (it can discolor metal) and glass cooktops, where it may leave fine scratches.
Can You Mix Vinegar and Baking Soda?
You can — but not for cleaning power! When mixed, they fizz and foam (great for science experiments), but they actually neutralize each other, canceling out the cleaning benefits of both.
That said, you can use them in sequence:
Sprinkle baking soda to scrub or deodorize.
Rinse.
Then follow up with vinegar for shine and disinfection.
This combo works beautifully in drains, sinks, and toilets to loosen buildup and freshen things up.
Fresh Nest’s Pro Tip:
Keep both vinegar and baking soda in your cleaning kit — just use them wisely. Vinegar for dissolving and deodorizing; baking soda for scrubbing and freshening. Together (used correctly), they’ll keep your home sparkling clean the natural way.
Keep Your Nest Fresh — the Professional Way
If you love a clean home but don’t have time to tackle it all, that’s where we come in!
Call us today or book online to experience the Fresh Nest difference!
