Using White Vinegar to Bleach Clothes
White vinegar is a common kitchen staple that is known for its many uses around the house. One lesser known use is bleaching. It is often a cheaper and less harsh alternative to bleach. Additionally, white vinegar is natural and safe for the environment. Here are some important points to consider when using white vinegar to bleach clothes:
Benefits of White Vinegar Bleaching
- Inexpensive: White vinegar is much less expensive than purchasing a commercial bleach solution.
- Environmentally Friendly: As white vinegar is natural, it is much more friendly to the environment than harsher chemicals.
- Cleaning: White vinegar is a great cleaner and sanitizer, it will not only bleach clothes but can help to remove stains as well.
How to Use White Vinegar for Bleaching
- Fill a sink or bucket with enough hot water to cover the items to be bleached.
- Add 3-4 cups of white vinegar to the water.
- Submerge the items in the water and let them soak for at least 30 minutes.
- Rinse the items in cold water and let them air dry.
Things to Note
- White vinegar will work best on white items, it may discolor or damage colored or delicate items.
- White vinegar will not remove mildew or other stubborn stains, for these it is best to use a commercial bleach.
- White vinegar will not have as strong an effect as commercial bleach so it may take several attempts or longer soaking times to achieve desired results.
- White vinegar is an effective way to get brighter whites but it may not be the best choice for extremely stained or heavily soiled clothes.
By following these steps, white vinegar can be used to safely and effectively bleach clothes.
It is important to remember that white vinegar may not be as powerful as commercial bleach and more than one soaking may be required. Additionally, while it can be used on white items, it is best to test a small area first as it may cause discoloration on delicate or colored items.