When it comes to my home cleaning tasks, I swear by distilled white vinegar to get certain jobs done. Not only can it quickly dissolve grease and grime in my bathroom, but when combined with baking soda, I’ve also used it to unclog my drains successfully. Plus, it’s non-toxic and far cheaper than shop-bought, branded cleaners.
However, while it might seem like a go-to staple, there are some things you should never clean with white vinegar. An expert has warned of one common area we often clean with white vinegar that could cost us in expensive kitchen repairs. In fact, I'm guilty of this myself. Here’s why.
Never use vinegar on marble, granite, or stone worktops
I'm constantly wiping down my kitchen countertops, so this is one warning I should certainly pay attention to. Like many, I have a stone countertop and have previously been guilty of cleaning it with white vinegar — especially when I want to remove stains. However, I might be unknowingly causing serious damage that could cost up to $3,000 to fix.
This is because vinegar's acidity can damage natural stone, leading to etching or wear on the surface. This results in the stone losing its smooth, shiny appearance and becoming discolored.
Vinegar's acidity can damage natural stone, leading to etching or wear on the surface.
“Vinegar is popular because it is cheap, accessible, and seen as a natural alternative to chemical cleaners,” warns Simon Roberts, director at quartz worktop retailer Vogue Worktops. “The problem is that people often forget it is acidic, and certain worktop materials are not designed to be exposed to acid repeatedly.”
“With marble and some sealed stone worktops, repeated exposure can slowly wear down the protective seal. That seal is essential because it protects the surface from staining, etching, and general wear.”
What’s more, repairing damage to expensive materials such as marble, granite, or other natural stones can be costly. “It’s very rarely an immediate problem. That’s why people don’t always connect the cleaning product to the damage. By the time it becomes visible, the surface may already have been affected for months or years.”
“Depending on the material, size, and extent of the damage, replacement kitchen worktops can typically cost anywhere from around $1,339 to $3,000 or more, particularly for stone or bespoke surfaces.”
Other common cleaning mistakes to avoid include using bleach on unsealed or delicate surfaces, abrasive sponges on polished finishes, and harsh multi-purpose sprays that leave residue build-up.
How to clean stone worktops
So, how do you clean your beloved worktops without ruining them? The best way to keep your marble and granite tops sparkling is to use alternative methods that are best suited to the surface.
Typically, dish soap, warm water, and a pH-neutral detergent are your safest bet. Simply use a soft cloth or sponge to give it a wipe down, and avoid abrasive cleaners, as they can scratch the stone's surface. After cleaning, thoroughly rinse and dry the area to prevent water spots.
“A simple change in cleaning routine can extend the life of a worktop significantly,” adds Roberts. “If people know what their surface is made of and use the right products, they can avoid damage that might otherwise lead to very expensive repairs or replacements.”
Thankfully, my white stone countertops remain intact, but a lesson was learned before I got too enthusiastic with the white vinegar!
For more tips, check out vinegar vs baking soda — which is best at cleaning?
