Ever looked at your dishwasher and thought, This thing cleans my dishes, but who cleans it? If so, you might have heard that vinegar—specifically cleaning vinegar—can help keep your dishwasher fresh and grime-free. But is it actually safe to use? Or could it cause more harm than good?
Let’s break it all down!
What Exactly Is Cleaning Vinegar?
First, let’s clear up a common mix-up: Cleaning vinegar and regular white vinegar are NOT the same thing.
- White vinegar (the kind you cook with) is about 5% acetic acid.
- Cleaning vinegar is stronger, with 6-8% acetic acid—making it 20%+ more acidic than regular vinegar.
That extra acidity is why cleaning vinegar is great for dissolving tough buildup, but it also means it can be a little harsher on certain surfaces.
So, Can You Use Cleaning Vinegar in Your Dishwasher?
Yes—but with caution.
✅ It’s great for breaking down hard water deposits that clog spray arms and filters.
✅ It helps remove soap scum and lingering odors.
✅ It’s a natural, chemical-free cleaner, making it a solid alternative to store-bought dishwasher cleaners.
However…
❌ The high acidity can damage rubber seals and hoses if used too often.
❌ It can corrode metal parts inside your dishwasher over time.
❌ Using too much can leave a strong vinegar smell on your dishes.
So while cleaning vinegar can be useful, it’s best to use it sparingly and correctly to avoid long-term damage.
How to Safely Clean Your Dishwasher with Vinegar
If you want to give cleaning vinegar a try, here’s how to do it safely:
1. Use a Vinegar Rinse (Not a Full Cycle)
Instead of dumping vinegar into the detergent compartment (which can be too harsh), place a cup of vinegar in a dishwasher-safe bowl on the top rack and run a hot water cycle. This ensures a controlled, even distribution.
2. Don’t Mix Vinegar with Baking Soda
While vinegar and baking soda are both great cleaning agents, mixing them inside your dishwasher can create a fizzy mess that won’t do much for deep cleaning. It’s best to use them separately.
3. Limit Use to Once a Month
To prevent damage, don’t use cleaning vinegar every time you run the dishwasher. A monthly deep clean is enough to keep things fresh.
Final Verdict: Is Cleaning Vinegar Safe for Your Dishwasher?
Yes, but in moderation. Cleaning vinegar is a powerful, natural cleaner that can help remove buildup, eliminate odors, and keep your dishwasher in top shape. However, too much acidity can wear down essential parts, so it’s best used as an occasional deep-cleaning tool—not an everyday solution.
Next time you’re dealing with a funky-smelling dishwasher, give vinegar a shot—just make sure you use it the right way!