Is Cleaning Vinegar the Same as White Vinegar? When to Use Each One

White vinegar is a cleaning staple that can be used for a variety of jobs, from general bathroom cleaning to disinfecting yoga mats. White vinegar is inexpensive, non-toxic, and readily available, making it a popular choice for many households.

But not all white vinegars are created equal: Distilled white vinegar is one type of vinegar that can be used for cleaning, but there is a stronger form called "cleaning vinegar" and it can be confusing to know which is the right one to choose. 

Ahead, you'll learn the difference between food-grade distilled white vinegar and cleaning vinegar, and how this natural cleaning agent can be safely used in the home.

The Difference Between Distilled White Vinegar and Cleaning Vinegar

To put it plainly, the difference between distilled white vinegar, which is often simply called white vinegar, and cleaning vinegar is in its potency. They are chemically the same but with different concentrations. White vinegar typically has a concentration of 5%, meaning that it contains 5% acetic acid and 95% water (some distilled white vinegar formulas have an even lower concentration of 4%). Cleaning vinegar has a concentration of 6%, meaning it contains 6% acetic acid and 94% water. While a 1% difference may not sound significant, it actually is: Cleaning vinegar is 20% more powerful than distilled white vinegar.

The two products are also processed differently and, most critically, cleaning vinegar is not approved or intended for consumption. Cleaning vinegar, because it is not intended for human consumption, does not need to meet the same food-quality standards that distilled white vinegar does, and therefore contains impurities, as well as a high level of acidity, that make it unsafe for consumption. Consuming cleaning vinegar can cause intestinal and/or esophageal distress. 

Using and Storing Cleaning Vinegar

Cleaning vinegar, with its higher concentration of acetic acid, can power through soap scum, scale, and eliminate bacteria associated with malodor in laundry, to name just a few uses. It can also be used for any cleaning jobs that call for white vinegar. But the way in which it's used is slightly different because it is stronger and therefore less of it is needed to achieve the same level of clean.

Owing to its concentration, using cleaning vinegar instead of distilled white vinegar can save money: Less of it is needed to create a vinegar solution for cleaning. Additionally, while 6% is the most common type of cleaning vinegar on the market, higher concentrations are available.

When working with cleaning vinegar, especially those with a concentration higher than 6%, it is important to take safety precautions when handling. The use of rubber household gloves is recommended, and working in a well-ventilated space is advised.

As with any cleaning agent, it is important to take safety into account when storing cleaning vinegar. It should be stored in a cool, dry space with good ventilation, away from heat sources or anything that is potentially flammable. In homes with children, seniors, impaired adults, or pets, cleaning supplies should be kept out of reach, ideally behind closed and/or locked doors. 

Finally, it is recommended that cleaning vinegar not be stored in the kitchen to avoid mistaking it for food-grade vinegar when cooking.

When to Avoid the Use of Cleaning Vinegar 

While distilled white vinegar can be used for cleaning, cleaning vinegar cannot be used in food preparation and should not be consumed in any way.

While vinegar is a versatile cleaning agent, there are some common household items and materials that can be damaged when exposed to it. In addition, when mixed with other cleaning agents, notably chlorine bleach, the acid in vinegar can create toxic chemical reactions. Never mix cleaning vinegar, nor vinegars of any kind, with chlorine bleach.

Some of the materials and household items that should not be cleaned with vinegar include:

• Marble, granite, and other natural stones
• Grout
• Cast iron
• Stainless steel
• Waxed or unfinished wood
• Rubber gaskets and hoses
• Electronics
• Clothing irons
• Pet messes