Does vinegar help disinfect and eliminate germs and bacteria in your home?

Vinegar, with its pungent aroma, has long taken center stage in households around the world. Beyond being an essential salad dressing and a versatile culinary ingredient, it has long been known as a reliable cleaning agent.

However, is it really effective as a disinfectant?

The myth of vinegar as a disinfectant

Generations have used vinegar to clean everything from floors and carpets to pots, leaving surfaces with a spectacular shine. However, the scientific community does not support it as an effective antibacterial agent.

Limitations of vinegar as a disinfectant

• Limited effectiveness:  Alex Berezow of the American Council on Science and Health cautions that vinegar, while it has some disinfecting properties, is not as effective as standard household products.
• Not recommended by authorities:  Vinegar is not registered as a sanitizer by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
• Low effectiveness against viruses and bacteria:  Studies show that its effectiveness in eliminating viruses and bacteria is only around 10%.

More effective alternatives for disinfection

• Alcohol:  The best disinfectant par excellence.
• Hydrogen peroxide:  Ideal for surfaces used daily such as keyboards or mouse. Avoid on floors, wood or ceramics.
• Lemon and hydrogen peroxide:  Combination considered a good disinfectant by some experts.
• Bleach:  The best option for disinfecting your home due to its antibacterial and oxidizing properties. Use sparingly to avoid damaging materials and surfaces.
• Ammonia:  Effective disinfectant and degreaser for kitchens and floors. Also useful for cleaning glass and floors, leaving a shine similar to vinegar.

Conclusion

While vinegar can be useful for removing dirt and brightening surfaces, it is not as effective a disinfectant as you might think. It is recommended to opt for specific products for home disinfection, such as bleach, alcohol or ammonia, to ensure a truly germ- and bacteria-free environment.