Written by Andrea Reviewed by Daniel

9 Cleaning Hacks Using Soda Crystals And Vinegar

Have you ever looked under your kitchen sink and wondered why you have so many different cleaning products?

Well, what if I told you that two simple household items could tackle most of your cleaning needs? That’s right – soda crystals and vinegar are cleaning masters that can save you money and also reduce your reliance on harsh and irritating chemicals.

Let’s have a closer look into how these common items can transform your cleaning routine!

Table of Contents

For Removing Clogs In Drains

We’ve all been there – you’re having a shower, and suddenly you’re standing in a bath because the water isn’t draining. Before you reach for the phone to call a plumber, try this:

Pour a cup of soda crystals down the drain, followed by a cup of white vinegar. The mixture will fizz and bubble like a science experiment. Believe it or not, this reaction is actually breaking down the gunk causing the blockage.

Leave it for about 30 minutes, then flush with hot water.

Dri Pak Soda Crystal, 1kg (Pack of 2)

Cleaning and deodorizing the washing machine
Removes burnt residue on in pots and pans

For really stubborn clogs, you might need to bring out the big guns. Try repeating the process or leaving the mixture overnight before flushing. You’d be surprised how effective this can be, even on those hair-clogged bathroom sinks!

TIP: To prevent future clogs, use this method once a month as maintenance. It’s much easier to prevent a clog than to deal with one when you’re running late for work!

For Cleaning Washing Machines

Ever noticed a funky smell coming from your washing machine? Or worse, have your “clean” clothes come out smelling less than fresh? This means that your washing machine needs a good clean, and here’s how to do it:

Run an empty hot water cycle with a cup of soda crystals in the drum and a cup of white vinegar in the detergent drawer. This duo will remove soap scum, limescale, and any bacteria that’s decided to make your machine its home.

But don’t stop there! After the cycle, wipe around the door seal (especially important for front-loaders) and leave the door open to air dry. This prevents mould and mildew from growing in those hard-to-reach areas.

For best results, do this every month or two. Your clothes (and your nose) will thank you!

For Cleaning Toilets

Let’s face it, cleaning the loo isn’t anyone’s favourite job. But with soda crystals and vinegar, you can make it quicker and more effective:

Pour a cup of soda crystals into the bowl and add a cup of white vinegar. Watch as it fizzes up like a volcanic eruption – that’s the cleaning action hard at work!

Leave it for about 30 minutes (just the perfect time to tackle another cleaning task), then scrub with a toilet brush and flush.

This method is particularly good for removing those stubborn limescale marks that regular toilet cleaners often can’t shift. For extra tough stains, you might need to repeat the process or leave it overnight.

Remember to clean under the rim too – that’s where a lot of bacteria like to hide!

For Removing Stains In Fabrics

Spills happen, but they don’t have to mean the end of your favourite shirt. Here’s how to tackle those pesky stains:

Make a paste with soda crystals and a little water. Apply it to the stain, gently working it into the fabric, and leave it for about 30 minutes before washing as usual.

For extra stubborn stains (I’m looking at you, red wine on a white carpet), you can add a splash of white vinegar to the paste. The combination of soda crystals and vinegar creates a powerful stain-fighting team.

Always test on an inconspicuous area first, especially with delicate fabrics. And remember, the quicker you act on a stain, the better your chances of removing it completely!

For Cleaning Sinks

Kitchen and bathroom sinks can quickly become breeding grounds for bacteria if not cleaned regularly. Here’s a simple method to keep them sparkling:

Sprinkle soda crystals around the sink, then spray with white vinegar. The fizzing action you’ll see is actually lifting dirt and killing bacteria. Let it work its magic for a few minutes, then scrub with a sponge and rinse thoroughly.

This method works wonders on both stainless steel and ceramic sinks. For extra shine on stainless steel, buff with a microfibre cloth after cleaning.

For Cleaning Chopping Boards

Wooden chopping boards are great, but they can absorb odours and bacteria if not cleaned properly.

Here’s how to deep clean them:

Sprinkle soda crystals over the board, then spray with white vinegar. The fizzing action will help lift dirt and kill bacteria. Leave for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly with hot water.

For an extra boost of freshness and antibacterial action, finish by rubbing a cut lemon over the surface. Not only will this help sanitise the board, but it’ll also leave it smelling great!

Do this once a week for boards you use regularly, and always clean your board immediately after cutting raw meat!

For Cleaning Greasy Surfaces

Anyone who loves cooking knows the struggle of keeping kitchen surfaces grease-free. Here’s how to cut through that stubborn layer:

Make a paste with soda crystals and a little water. Apply it to the greasy surface and leave for about 15 minutes. The soda crystals will work to break down the grease. Wipe off with a damp cloth, then spray with white vinegar and wipe again for a streak-free finish.

This method is particularly effective for cleaning around the hob, where grease tends to build up. It’s also great for cleaning the inside of the oven – just be sure to rinse thoroughly afterwards.

For Removing Limescale

If you live in a hard water area, you’ll know the pain of limescale buildup. But fear not, white vinegar is here to save the day:

For taps and showerheads, soak a cloth in vinegar and wrap it around the affected area. Secure it with an elastic band if needed. Leave for a few hours or overnight, then scrub off the loosened limescale. You’ll be amazed at how shiny your taps look afterwards!

For kettles, fill with equal parts water and white vinegar, boil, then leave to soak for an hour before rinsing thoroughly. This will not only remove limescale but also improve the taste of your tea or coffee.

Remember to descale your kettle regularly, which is about once a month in hard water areas – to keep it working efficiently!

For Freshening Laundry

Want softer, fresher-smelling laundry without harsh chemicals? Here’s a simple trick:

Add a cup of white vinegar to your washing machine’s fabric softener compartment. The vinegar helps to remove any lingering odours and breaks down detergent residue, leaving your clothes soft and fresh.

Don’t worry about your clothes smelling like vinegar – the smell disappears as the clothes dry. This method is particularly good for towels, as it helps restore their absorbency which can be reduced by fabric softener buildup.

Of course, you can also use soda crystals by putting them in the drum, then running an empty hot wash programme. This cleans your washer, which also cleans and freshens your garments!

BONUS: Tips For Using Soda Crystals And Vinegar

And there you have it! If you use the hacks above, a clean and fresh home is always guaranteed.

Before I end this article, it’s not right to not share a few tips and also remind you of the stuff you need to remember when using the dynamic duo:

Always wear gloves when handling soda crystals, as they can irritate skin. Safety first!
Never mix vinegar with bleach. This creates toxic chlorine gas which can be very dangerous. Always use them separately.
For stubborn stains or dirt, let the soda crystal solution sit for longer before scrubbing. As always, patience is key in cleaning.
Use distilled white vinegar for cleaning to avoid any potential staining.
Soda crystals can be used to unblock and freshen drains regularly – use about 100g weekly to keep pipes clear. Prevention is better than cure!
For a general all-purpose cleaner, dissolve 1 tablespoon of soda crystals in 500ml of warm water. Store in a spray bottle for easy use.
Vinegar can be used to clean windows and mirrors for a streak-free shine. Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
Both soda crystals and vinegar are biodegradable and environmentally friendly alternatives to harsh chemical cleaners. Good for your home and the planet!
Store soda crystals in an airtight container to prevent them from absorbing moisture and clumping. Nobody likes battling with a solid lump of soda crystals!
Remember that while these are natural cleaning products, they’re still chemicals – always use in a well-ventilated area and keep out of reach of children and pets.

When you use these natural cleaners in your home, you’ll lessen the need to rely on harsh chemicals.

Do you have other tips to share? Which hack is your favourite? Let us know in the comments!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use soda crystals and white vinegar together?

Yes, you can use soda crystals and white vinegar together. This combination creates a fizzing reaction that helps to break down grime and blockages effectively.

What should you not use soda crystals on?

You should not use soda crystals on aluminium, lacquered surfaces, or delicate fabrics. They can cause damage or discolouration.

Do soda crystals whiten clothes?

Yes, soda crystals can help to whiten clothes. They are effective at removing stains and brightening fabrics when added to your wash cycle.

What should not be cleaned with vinegar?

You should not clean natural stone surfaces, egg spills, or iron with vinegar. Vinegar can damage these materials and cause unwanted reactions.

Can you clean a toilet with soda crystals and vinegar?

Yes, you can clean a toilet with soda crystals and vinegar. The fizzing reaction effectively tackles stains and limescale, leaving your toilet sparkling clean.

Also, follow us on Pinterest ...