Cleaning is an essential household task that requires the use of a proper cleaning agent or solution. For most homeowners, selecting the right cleaning solution is a task because proper information regarding the solution is important while selecting the cleaner. Many prefer to buy cleaners available in the market, whereas others explore their pantry. Vinegar and ammonia are one such pantry item often used for cleaning. In this blog, we discuss whether vinegar and ammonia can be used as a mixture for cleaning purposes or work well when used individually. We also discuss the benefits of using vinegar and ammonia.
What is Vinegar and Its Benefits?
Vinegar is an ingredient prepared by fermenting ethanol by acetic acid bacteria. It is used in cleaning, flavoring, and food preservation (to increase the shelf life of the food items). It is widely used by chefs and food manufacturers.
What is Ammonia and Its Benefits?
Ammonia is a compound present in nature by the decay of plant and animal matter. It is also produced commercially to use as a cleaner. Ammonia is also used in fertilizers, which are used in agriculture to provide essential nutrients to the crops for robust growth.
Can You Mix Vinegar and Ammonia for Cleaning Purposes?
Yes, you can mix vinegar and ammonia to use as a cleaning solution. However, the safety and effectiveness of vinegar and ammonia mixture is often questioned. The fact is that the vinegar and ammonia mixture is not dangerous, but the mixture is not effective. The solution works merely like a saltwater solution; hence, it's not preferred for cleaning. Let's understand the science behind it- ammonia is a weak base, and vinegar is a weak acid, so when it is mixed together, they neutralize each other. As a result, the mixture acts as nothing more than a saltwater solution and, hence, won't work effectively for cleaning purposes.
When to Use Vinegar?
Vinegar can be used to clean a newly installed window. Owing to its acidic property, it breaks down the germs, grease, and mold accumulated on the window. If the acidity content in vinegar is high, you can dilute it with water. Vinegar is also used:
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To remove hard water deposit
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To remove rust stains
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To remove tarnishes from copper and brass
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As a disinfectant
When to Use Ammonia?
Ammonia can also be used to break grease and grime due to its corrosive properties. Just like vinegar, it can also be diluted. However, be cautious when using ammonia because it can burn the eyes and skin and cause irritation to the lungs and throat. It's advisable to use it in a well-ventilated area. Ammonia is also used as a degreasing agent to clean:
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Glasses
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Stainless steel
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Porcelain
Which is a Better Cleaning Agent: Ammonia or Vinegar?
Though both can be used as a cleaning agent, when you have to make a choice between the two, vinegar is a better option than ammonia. This is because vinegar is less harmful and toxic.
What Can Be Mixed With Vinegar and Ammonia to Boost the Cleaning Power?
When vinegar is mixed with baking soda, it releases carbon dioxide, which helps in loosening dirt from the surface. It's advisable not to mix vinegar and baking soda in equal portions to retain the acidic or basic properties of the mixture. To achieve the best cleaning result, mix two parts of vinegar with one part of baking soda. To remove tough, hard water stains, prepare a mixture of vinegar, a paste made from baking soda, and water and apply it to the stain.
Ammonia can be used as an effective cleaning agent merely by mixing water. If you want to remove stains from the cloth caused by oil-based food, add dishwashing soap to a few drops of ammonia. The result will be remarkable.
Ways to Get Rid of Mold Using Vinegar and Ammonia
Vinegar is an effective and safe way to get rid of mold as it is non-toxic and doesn't release harmful fumes like bleach. All you need to do is pour vinegar into the spray bottle, spray it directly on the mold, and leave it for an hour. Then, wipe with a damp cloth and let it dry.
You can use ammonia when vinegar doesn't work well on mold. Ammonia can effectively kill mold, even from hard surfaces like shower stalls and countertops. The drawback is that it is toxic.
Conclusion
Vinegar and ammonia are two different solutions used for cleaning purposes. When vinegar and ammonia are used individually, the effect is more. When it is mixed with each other, the solution is not effective. This is because vinegar has acidic properties, and ammonia is a base, so when they are mixed, they neutralize each other. You can assess the situation and decide whether vinegar is suitable or ammonia is more effective.
