Vinegar and OxiClean are two common household products that have multiple uses, from cleaning to stain removal. But what happens when you mix these two? Can you create a super solution that will tackle even the toughest grime? The answer is no. Just like hydrogen peroxide and OxiClean, vinegar, and OxiClean do not mix well and can have disastrous results. In this article, we’ll explore why these two products shouldn’t be mixed and what you can use instead to get the job done. So, if you’re tempted to mix vinegar and OxiClean, read on to find out why you should think twice.
What is Oxiclean
OxiClean is a brand of household cleaners that includes a range of products designed to remove stains and brighten fabrics. The brand’s products are based on a powder that is made up of various cleaning agents, including sodium percarbonate, which releases hydrogen peroxide when mixed with water.
OxiClean is known for its ability to remove tough stains from clothes, carpets, upholstery, and even outdoor surfaces.
The products come in different forms, including powders, liquids, and sprays, and are widely available in supermarkets and online stores.
OxiClean is often used as an alternative to bleach, as it is considered safer for colored fabrics and does not have a strong odor.
What is Vinegar
Vinegar is an acidic liquid that is commonly used in cooking, cleaning, and as a natural remedy for various ailments. It is made by fermenting dilute alcoholic liquids, such as wine or cider, using acetic acid bacteria.
The resulting liquid contains acetic acid, water, and other compounds that give it a distinct flavor and aroma. Vinegar is commonly used in cooking to add acidity to dishes, such as salad dressings, sauces, and marinades. It is also used as a preservative for pickling vegetables and fruits.
In cleaning, vinegar is often used as a natural and environmentally friendly alternative to harsh chemicals. It can be used to remove stains, clean surfaces, and deodorize the home. Vinegar has also been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various ailments, including sore throats, digestive issues, and skin irritations.
Can You Mix Vinegar and Oxiclean
No, you should not mix vinegar and OxiClean together. Vinegar is an acidic substance, and when combined with OxiClean, which contains hydrogen peroxide, it can create a chemical reaction that can release harmful gases, such as chlorine gas.
This reaction can also cause the mixture to become hot and potentially cause a container to burst. Therefore, it is recommended that you use vinegar or OxiClean separately for cleaning purposes and not mix them together.
If you’re looking for a natural alternative to OxiClean, you can use baking soda and water or lemon juice and hydrogen peroxide instead.
Can You Mix White Vinegar and Oxyclean?
No, it is not recommended to mix white vinegar and Oxyclean together. Mixing the two can create a chemical reaction that can release harmful fumes and cause damage to surfaces or fabrics.
Oxyclean contains hydrogen peroxide, which can react with the acetic acid in vinegar to form peracetic acid. Peracetic acid is an unstable and potentially dangerous compound that can cause respiratory problems, skin irritation, and damage to surfaces.
If you want to use both white vinegar and Oxyclean separately, it’s best to use them in different cleaning applications and avoid mixing them.
Accidentally, Mixed Vinegar and Oxiclean in Washing Machine
If you have accidentally mixed vinegar and Oxyclean in your washing machine, you should immediately stop the machine and remove any clothes from the washing machine and rinse them thoroughly with water. You may need to run the clothes through another wash cycle with just water to ensure that all of the mixtures are removed.
Then, you should clean your washing machine by running it through a cycle with just hot water and no laundry. This can help to remove any residue or buildup from the vinegar and Oxyclean mixture.
Oxiclean and Vinegar for Carpets
Oxiclean and vinegar can be effective for cleaning carpets, but using them properly is important to avoid damaging your carpet or leaving behind any residues.
Here’s how you can use Oxiclean and vinegar to clean your carpets:
- Vacuum your carpet thoroughly to remove any loose dirt or debris.
- Mix a solution of Oxiclean and warm water in a spray bottle. The amount of Oxiclean you use will depend on the size of the stain and the concentration of the product you’re using. Start with 1/4 cup of Oxiclean per gallon of water, and adjust as needed.
- Test the solution on an inconspicuous area of your carpet to make sure it won’t cause any discoloration or damage. Wait for the test spot to dry completely before proceeding.
- Spray the Oxiclean solution onto the stain and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
- Blot the stain with a clean, white cloth to remove the solution and the stain. Don’t rub the stain, as this can push it deeper into the carpet fibers.
- If the stain is still visible, mix a solution of equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle.
- Spray the vinegar solution onto the stain and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
- Blot the stain with a clean, white cloth to remove the solution and the stain.
- Rinse the area with clean water and blot dry with a clean, white cloth.
Oxiclean and Vinegar for Mold
While Oxiclean and vinegar can be effective for cleaning mold in certain situations, it’s important to note that the most effective way to deal with mold is to address the underlying moisture issue and have a professional mold remediation company handle the cleaning.
That being said, if you’re dealing with a small amount of surface mold and want to try cleaning it yourself, here’s how you can use Oxiclean and vinegar:
- Put on protective gear, including gloves, a mask, and goggles, to avoid breathing in or coming into contact with the mold spores.
- Mix a solution of Oxiclean and warm water in a spray bottle. Use about 1/4 cup of Oxiclean per gallon of water.
- Spray the solution onto the moldy area and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Scrub the area with a stiff-bristled brush to remove the mold and any stains.
- Rinse the area with clean water and wipe it dry with a clean towel or rag.
- If any mold or stains remain, mix a solution of equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle.
- Spray the vinegar solution onto the area and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Scrub the area with the brush again to remove any remaining mold and stains.
- Rinse the area with clean water and wipe it dry with a clean towel or rag.
