What not to clean with white vinegar: 5 items that can be 'damaged' by 'popular' solution

White vinegar is a versatile household cleaner that’s both effective and eco-friendly.

The affordable solution can be used to tackle a plethora of cleaning tasks but it’s crucial homeowners are aware that the cleaning solution can’t be used on all surfaces and materials.

To promote informed cleaning choices and prevent accidents, the cleaning experts at www.dailypoppins.co.uk have shared which five items should never be cleaned with white vinegar.

The experts said: “There are some items that should never be cleaned with vinegar because it can damage them, even though distilled white vinegar is recommended for a wide variety of cleaning tasks.

“Cleaning with vinegar is a popular method of cleaning many things around the house because it is non-toxic, inexpensive, and effective.

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“Although vinegar works well to remove limescale, it can also damage other surfaces because it is an acid.”

Cast iron cookware has a habit of getting greasy and laden with food, however, it’s important homeowners don’t feel tempted to remove any food debris using white vinegar.

The experts warned: “Cast iron cookware's non-stick surface is protected by a layer of seasoning, which vinegar eats away at.

“Cast iron itself can pit when exposed to distilled white vinegar for a prolonged period of time.”

TV screens, mobile phones, computer monitors, and other electronics should never be cleaned with vinegar or any cleaning agents containing vinegar.

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Not only will this damage any anti-glare coatings but if too much spray is used, it could seep into the internal components which could irreparably damage the device.

Rubber parts such as gaskets and hoses can “disintegrate” after prolonged or repeated exposure to vinegar.

White vinegar can be safely used to clean household appliances like washing machines, refrigerators, and dishwashers, however, homeowners should check the manufacturer's instructions beforehand.

Clothing irons should not be cleaned using white vinegar as they could be “irreparably damaged”.

White vinegar should not be used to clean up pet mess, such as urine or faeces, on soft furnishings such as carpets, furniture or mattresses.

The experts said: “It is not recommended to use vinegar to clean pet messes because the strong chemical odours may encourage your pet to reinforce the urine scent mark. To clean pet messes, use enzyme-based cleaners.”