From Mattresses To Mirrors: 7 Bedroom Cleaning Uses for Vinegar

Vinegar is more than just a pantry staple. This inexpensive kitchen essential can also be a useful addition to your bedroom-cleaning routine. From freshening up mattresses and curtains to tackling dust, grime and unpleasant odours, white vinegar can help keep different surfaces and fabrics around the bedroom feeling cleaner.

Thanks to its acidity, vinegar can help loosen certain types of dirt, dissolve mineral deposits and neutralise some household odours. Its cleaning properties make diluted white vinegar useful for several everyday household tasks. However, it is important to use it on suitable surfaces and never mix it with bleach or other incompatible cleaning products.

Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle and lightly mist the mattress. Vinegar can help tackle lingering odours and leave the mattress feeling fresher. Tip: Do not soak the mattress, as excess moisture can encourage mould growth. Allow it to dry completely before putting the bedding back on.

A simple mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water can help remove fingerprints, dust and light grime from bedroom windows and mirrors. Spray the solution onto a microfiber or lint-free cloth rather than directly onto the surface. Wipe thoroughly to leave the glass looking cleaner and brighter.

If your bedroom has a lingering musty or unpleasant smell, place a small bowl of white vinegar in the room for a few hours. The vinegar's strong smell will initially be noticeable, but it can help with certain household odours. Tip: Remove the bowl afterwards and open a window to ventilate the room.

Vinegar can help remove dust, grime and greasy buildup from ceiling fan blades. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle, then lightly spray the solution onto a microfiber cloth rather than directly onto the fan. Wipe each blade carefully, followed by a dry cloth.
Tip: Turn off and unplug the fan before cleaning, and avoid getting liquid into the motor or electrical components.

Bedroom carpets and rugs can trap unpleasant smells over time. A very light application of diluted white vinegar may help neutralise some odours. Avoid soaking the fibres, as excess moisture can cause problems underneath the carpet. Tip: Always patch-test the solution first, particularly on coloured, delicate or expensive rugs.

Diluted vinegar can be used cautiously to clean certain sealed wooden bedroom surfaces, including some tables, cupboards and furniture. Mix a small amount of vinegar with water and use a slightly damp cloth. Tip: Avoid using vinegar on unsealed, waxed, damaged or delicate wood, where its acidity could affect the finish.

Curtains can gradually absorb cooking smells, dust and other household odours, particularly if they are not washed regularly. A light mist of diluted white vinegar may help reduce musty smells between washes. Tip: Always check the fabric-care instructions and test the solution on a hidden area before treating the entire curtain.