ACV: 40 Innovative And Helpful Ways To Use Apple Cider Vinegar Around The House

By Navkiran K

ACV is unparalleled in terms of health and fitness. It is great for weight loss and has a plethora of advantages. Some top apple cider vinegar benefits include weight loss, improved heart health, reduced cholesterol levels, and better blood sugar control. 

Apple cider vinegar is also effective for detoxifying the body, improving skin complexion, and soothing an upset stomach. It also has enzymes that may help break down food and promote gut health. Additionally, it has been seen to have antibacterial and anti-fungal properties.

ACV may also be used in some unforeseen ways, and you’ll want to run to the store to grab some by the end of this article. Check out these clever apple cider vinegar uses that you would never have thought possible!

1. Relief from eczema

You may use diluted ACV to treat eczema. Apple cider vinegar is a great anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agent, and it helps to soothe and heal the skin. To treat this skin condition with ACV dilute a part vinegar and three parts water.

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Dip a cotton pad in the solution, then dab it onto the affected area. Repeat 2-3 times a day until it clears up. Always test a little portion of your skin first to confirm you don’t have an unfavorable response to the solution.

2. Break down cellulite 

There’s no magical formula for perfect skin. Still, many swear by drinking diluted apple cider vinegar (with water and honey to taste) as a way to help improve skin tone and elasticity, break down cellulite, and fight acne. Some even say it helps with wrinkles.

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But before you start gargling ACV, keep in mind that, like most things you ingest, it will be a while before you notice results from drinking it. ACV may break down the cellulite from the inside. But there’s no concrete proof if apple cider vinegar has any real benefits for skin health or cellulite reduction. 

3. Fruit fly trap

There are a few different ways to make a fruit fly trap using apple cider vinegar and dish soap. One method is to blend 1 cup of ACV and 1 tbsp of dish soap. Add the mixture to a bowl, and put it in an area where you have seen fruit flies.

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The fruit flies will be drawn to the vinegar and trapped in the dish soap. Another way is to mix two cups of water with one cup of apple cider vinegar and one tablespoon of dish soap. Pour the blend into a bottle and spray it where you have seen fruit flies. 

4. Soother sunburn 

You might be surprised to learn that taking a bath in diluted apple cider vinegar can help soothe sunburns! This time-honored treatment has been used for ages to alleviate pain and itching from minor burns. Its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties can be valuable for sensitive skin.

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Add a cup of ACV to your bath and enjoy a relaxing soak. Stay in the tub for 25-30 minutes, then take a cool shower. The vinegar will help take the heat out of your sunburn and help to moisturize your skin. You’ll feel relief from your sunburn in no time.

5. Natural ant repellent 

There’s a lot of anecdotal evidence that apple cider vinegar can be used as a natural repellent against ants, but does it work? This vinegar has acetic acid that is toxic to ants. However, the concentration of acetic acid in household vinegar is much lower than the concentration needed to kill ants.

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So while spraying ACV on ant trails may deter them temporarily, it’s not likely to kill them. That said, if you’re having a problem with ants invading your home, there are other things you can do to eliminate them besides using vinegar. Some tried and true methods include using bait traps and sprays.

6. Enjoy pearly white teeth

No one likes yellow teeth. If you want to naturally whiten your teeth, swishing apple cider vinegar in water is a great way to do it! The acetic acid in ACV will help remove unwanted stains on your teeth, giving you a pearly white smile.

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Plus, it’s a safe and effective way to brighten your teeth without any harsh chemicals or expensive treatments. Add one or two tbsp of ACV to a glass of water and swish it around for 1-2 minutes before rinsing with water. You can do this once or twice a week for the best results.

7. Humidifier cleaner 

Apple cider vinegar is a great natural disinfectant, and it’s also inexpensive, so it makes sense to use it to clean your humidifier. ACV kills any bacteria or mold that may have built up in the humidifier. It’s also a great way to get rid of any unpleasant smells.

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Blend equal parts ACV and H20 in a bottle, and then sprinkle the liquid onto the humidifier. Let the humidifier rest for a while, then rinse it off with warm water. Be sure to dry the humidifier completely before using it again.

8. Affordable makeup remover

There are all sorts of natural makeup removers out there, and apple cider vinegar is one of the most popular. It’s a great choice because it’s inexpensive, easily available, and gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin. Moreover, it works well if you have oily skin.

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To make an ACV makeup remover, blend a part apple cider vinegar with three parts H2O. Drench a cotton cloth in the mixture and wipe it all over your face to clear all of your makeup. Clean your skin using warm water and pat it dry. You’ll be flabbergasted at how satisfactorily this works!

9. Drain clog cleaner 

Baking soda and apple cider vinegar can help to clean clogged drains. The baking soda is a natural abrasive to help dislodge any built-up debris, while the apple cider vinegar helps break down any organic matter. Plus, both ingredients are natural disinfectants, so they can help to kill any bacteria or germs.

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To use this method, combine 1/2 cup of baking soda with 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar and pour it down the clogged drain. Let it stay for 9-15 minutes, then rinse with hot water. If the clog is bad, you’ll like have to do it again.

10. Relieve arthritis symptoms

There are certain things you may do to ease your arthritis pain symptoms. Drinking diluted apple cider vinegar may help to relieve arthritis discomfort for some. However, there’s no proof it’ll work and additional investigation is required. ACV is rich in acetic acid and has shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.

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It’s important to remember that undiluted vinegar can irritate the skin and other tissues, so be sure to dilute it before using it as a treatment for arthritis. To try it yourself, combine 1-2 tbsp of ACV with eight ounces of water and consume once or twice daily. 

11. DIY jewelry cleaner 

Mixing apple cider vinegar and baking soda is a popular home remedy for cleaning jewelry. The baking soda helps to remove the built-up dirt and grease, while the apple cider vinegar helps to disinfect the jewelry and restore its shine. Merge 1/4 cup of baking soda and 2 tbsp of vinegar.

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Then soak your jewelry in the mixture for about 5 minutes. Wash the items with water and dry them with a gentle handkerchief. Your jewelry will look new! Repeat this a few times a month to keep your daily wear jewelry shiny. 

12. Prevent muscle cramps

Muscle cramps are most often caused by dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, low blood sugar, or strenuous exercise. Some athletes drink pickle juice rich in apple cider vinegar to fight cramps instead of relying on pain medication. The potassium in ACV may offer some relief.

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ACV is rich in acetic acid, and there’s evidence that this acid may help to prevent muscle cramps. More research may be critical to deciding whether or not apple cider vinegar may help to prevent muscle cramps. In the meantime, if you’re experiencing muscle cramps, see your doctor to rule out any other potential causes.

13. Keep your pet fleas free

If you’re in need of a natural and effective way to keep your pet’s fleas at bay, apple cider vinegar spray is a great option. ACV is an all-natural insect repellent that’s safe for both humans and animals, making it a great choice for those looking for a natural flea control solution.

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To use ACV as a flea repellent, mix equal parts water and ACV in a spray bottle and mist your pet’s coat evenly. Avoid the pet’s eyes, nose, and mouth when spraying. You may also combine a few drops of lemon juice with the mixture to make it even more effective against fleas.

14. Hair color protection

Apple cider vinegar is a wonder, and one of its benefits is as a hair color protector. To make an apple cider vinegar hair spray, swirl 2 tbsp of ACV with a cup of water in a spray bottle. Shake well and spritz on your hair before or after you style it.

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This will help to close the cuticle of your hair shaft, which may seal your hair color. You may also use an ACV hair rinse. Combine 1/2 cup of ACV with a cup of water. Spritz it onto your hair after washing. Let it work for 2-5 minutes, then rinse it out.

15. Multi-purpose cleaning spray

Apple cider vinegar is a great all-natural cleaning spray. Not only does it disinfect surfaces and get rid of dirt and grime, but it also leaves behind a refreshing apple cider vinegar scent. To make your own multi-purpose apple cider vinegar cleaning spray, mix one cup of water and two tablespoons of ACV.

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Pour the mixture into a spray bottle, and spritz it onto dirty surfaces as needed. Let the blend rest for a bit to allow the dirt and grime to loosen up, then clean the surfaces with a damp cloth. Voila! You’re done cleaning without using intense chemicals. 

16. Get rid of candida 

There are a lot of natural remedies out there for getting rid of candida overgrowth, and this particular mix of apple cider vinegar and coconut oil is one of them. ACV has acetic acid, which kills the yeast cells that cause candida overgrowth. Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which also has anti-fungal properties.

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So when these two ingredients are combined, they can be a powerful tool for fighting candida. Many have had success using this mixture to get rid of their candida symptoms. Note that there isn’t any scientific evidence to back up these claims. So if you’re considering using this remedy, consult a doctor. 

17. Enjoy your spaghetti

There’s some truth to this: apple cider vinegar does help to reduce the absorption of carbohydrates from food. However, it’s not a miracle cure and won’t work for everyone. Apple cider vinegar helps because it contains acetic acid, which interferes with the digestion of starch.

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When you eat foods containing starch, the starch is broken down into glucose and other smaller units. These smaller units may then be absorbed into the bloodstream, used for vitality, or accumulated as glycogen in the body. Acetic acid decreases the amount of broken-down starch. 

18. No more toenail fungus 

There is no proof to support the assertion that ACV may help kill toenail fungus. Some people recommend soaking your feet in a mixture of apple cider vinegar and water for 30 minutes a day. Others suggest dabbing apple cider vinegar directly on the affected area.

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For best results, continue this treatment for several weeks or until the fungus has disappeared. If you are pondering using apple cider vinegar to get rid of toenail fungus, it is important to discuss it with your physician beforehand. ACV may not be safe for everyone and can cause irritation and burning.

19. Heal cold sores

There’s no denying that cold sores are incredibly pesky. Anyone who’s ever had one knows just how uncomfortable they can be. And while there’s no cure for cold sores, there are a few things you can do to help ease the symptoms and speed up the healing process.

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Many people swear by using apple cider vinegar and tea tree essential oil. Vinegar is known for its “anti” functions: viruses, bacteria, and inflammatory. These properties can help heal cold sores. Tea tree oil also has powerful antiviral and antibacterial properties and is an effective pain reliever.

20. Prevent parasitic infections 

Apple cider vinegar may help keep your dog free of harmful bacteria and parasites. Put a few tbsp in a water bowl each day. And, if your dog drinks from puddles or other bodies of water, apple cider vinegar can help prevent them from becoming infected with parasites.

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Vinegar is extremely acidic for dogs if ingested in large amounts. Add only a small amount to your dog’s water bowl, and be sure to monitor their intake. Too much vinegar may lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration. ACV may also interact with certain medicines, so talk to a vet before you add it.

21. Say goodbye to dandruff 

Apple cider vinegar is a natural way to get rid of dandruff. The acidity of the apple cider vinegar helps to break down the build-up of oils and dead skin cells on the scalp that causes dandruff. In addition, apple cider vinegar has anti-fungal properties that exterminate the fungus responsible for causing dandruff.

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To use ACV to get rid of dandruff, add 1 part vinegar and 3 parts water. Spread the blend on your scalp and massage it in. Leave it for a little less than half an hour and wash it off. Repeat this remedy once a week until your dandruff disappears.

22. Food preservation 

Apple cider vinegar has been used for years as a natural preservative. The acetic acid in the ACV stops bacteria and mold from developing. But it’s noteworthy that vinegar is only effective at preventing spoilage if it’s used correctly.

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If you’re using ACV as a preservative, it’s crucial that you use it properly. Use cider vinegar with at least 5% acidity. Anything less than that may not be effective at inhibiting bacterial growth. Add a couple of tablespoons of vinegar to water and use this mixture to pickle vegetables or fruit. 

23. Relief from morning sickness

Apple Cider Vinegar has been a part of remedies for centuries to treat everything from sore throats to diabetes. Some swear by its power to help with morning sickness and claim that drinking diluted ACV in water helps to relieve nausea and vomiting.

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There’s scientific evidence that ACV may be helpful for treating nausea and vomiting. It works when you consume a glass of water with two tablespoons of ACV before breakfast. However, some research may be vital to corroborate these discoveries. If you’re considering trying ACV as a treatment for morning sickness, consult with your healthcare provider.

24. Lower blood sugar 

There are a few ways to lower blood sugar, and drinking apple cider vinegar works fine. ACV may help improve insulin sensitivity and helps the body to better use the glucose it takes in from food. This, in turn, may help to lower blood sugar levels.

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In addition to drinking apple cider vinegar, there are other things you can do to maintain your blood sugar levels controlled. These may include eating a nutritious diet and getting regular exercise. And if you’re taking medication for diabetes, talk with your doctor about how you can best manage your blood sugar levels.

25. Clear acne and scars 

Apple cider vinegar is a natural astringent and antiseptic. It helps clear acne and acne scars by killing the bacteria that cause blemishes and shrinking the pores. ACV also helps to balance the pH of the skin, which is important for keeping skin healthy and free from acne.

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To use apple cider vinegar as an acne treatment, apply it directly to the affected areas with a cotton ball. Wait 8-15 minutes and remove it with water. Repeat 2-3 times a day until your skin clears up. Also, add 1-2 tablespoons of ACV to warm water and drink.

26. Natural denture cleaner 

Apple cider vinegar is a great natural denture cleaner! Combine a tablespoon of ACV with 1 cup of water, and drench your dentures in the mixture for approximately half an hour. The acid will assist in breaking down built-up plaque or bacteria on your dentures.

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And the vinegar will also help to remove any lingering bad odors. Plus, it can help remove stubborn stains from your dentures. Do this procedure 1-2 times/week to maintain your dentures sterile and rid of bacteria. You’ll have fresh dentures without the use of chemical cleaners. 

27. Easy buttermilk recipe 

This easy buttermilk recipe is perfect for making pancakes, waffles, or biscuits. It’ll probably take a while to prepare, and it’s much healthier than store-bought buttermilk. Plus, you can use organic Apple Cider Vinegar, which has various health benefits without any chemicals.

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Grab a cup of milk (of any kind) and a tbsp of ACV to make the buttermilk. Pour the milk into a heat-proof bowl or glass container. Add the vinegar and agitate sufficiently to merge. Allow the blend to rest for 5-10 minutes or until it thickens and forms clumps. Use as desired. 

28. Fruit and veggies cleanup 

If you need an all-natural way to clean your fruits and vegetables, apple cider vinegar is a great option. Add a part ACV and four parts water, then pour the blend over your produce. Let it stay for a few minutes, then rinse with cold water.

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Apple cider vinegar is a great disinfectant, and it will help remove any dirt, pesticides, or chemicals that may have been used in the farming process. Besides, the vinegar helps kill any bacteria or parasites on the skin of the produce.

29. Cut the belly fat

Though apple cider vinegar won’t magically shrink your waistline, it can be a valuable tool in your weight loss journey. ACV is thought to have several health advantages, including assisting in weight loss. Studies have shown that it can reduce body fat, especially belly fat. It may also help increase feelings of fullness.

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Moreover, it may boost metabolism as a long-term effect. Drinking 1-2 tablespoons (15-30 ml) of vinegar per day has been shown to lead to modest weight loss in some studies. Though these effects aren’t huge, they may be enough to help you say goodbye to those pounds.

30. Prevent heart ailments 

There’s ample evidence that Apple Cider Vinegar may help to prevent heart ailments. Drinking ACV may be beneficial if you’re at risk for heart disease. The acetic acid in Apple Cider Vinegar has been shown to lower blood pressure and reduce bad cholesterol levels, which are major risk factors for heart disease.

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Additionally, Apple Cider Vinegar may help to regulate blood sugar levels. This helps improve insulin sensitivity, which may also help protect against heart disease. So, if you’re looking for a natural way to keep your heart healthy, Apple Cider Vinegar may be a good option. 

31. Perfect boiled eggs

Looking for the perfect boiled egg? You may make the ideal boiled egg using apple cider vinegar. Use eggs, 1 cup apple cider vinegar, 1 large pot of boiling water, and a pinch of salt. Fill a large container with water and bring it to a boil. Add the apple cider vinegar and salt.

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Gradually put the eggs in the boiling water. Let the eggs cook for approximately 12 minutes. Grab them from the water and put them in a bowl of cold water. Allow them to cool before peeling the shells. After boiling them in ACV water, you’ll notice the peels are easier to remove. 

32. Marinade meat 

Are you looking for a way to add some extra zing to your grilling this summer? If so, you may want to try marinating your meat with ACV. That’s right! Apple cider vinegar can be used as a marinade like any other vinegar.

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It can actually be a great choice for marinating meats because of its acidity. The acidity will help break down the meat’s fibers, making it more tender and flavorful. Try out this flavor-boosting technique by leaving the meat to marinate for a few hours.

33. Prevent cancer risk

There are many purported health benefits of apple cider vinegar, but most of them haven’t been proven by science. That said, some small studies have shown that vinegar may help lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels, and it’s possible that it could also play a role in preventing cancer.

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The main active part in apple cider vinegar is acetic acid, which has been shown to kill cancer cells in test tube studies. Therefore, drinking apple cider vinegar can prevent cancer in humans. Apple cider vinegar is a natural product, so it’s unlikely to cause any harmful side effects. 

34. Clean your toothbrush

With natural disinfectant properties, ACV may help kill bacteria on your toothbrush. Some people believe that vinegar will kill all the germs on the toothbrush, while others think it will help eliminate any residual toothpaste or plaque. It’s crucial to clean your toothbrush for effective and hygienic cleaning.

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Combine the same parts of apple cider vinegar and water in a bowl, soak your toothbrush for a few minutes, and rinse thoroughly. You may use this mixture to clean your toothbrush holder or any other surfaces that come into contact with your toothbrush.

35. Kill the unwanted plants

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is indeed a natural herbicide. But before you go spraying it all over your garden, beware that it can also kill off the good plants as well as the bad. You may test it out on a small area first to make sure it doesn’t harm any of your plants.

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The key to using ACV as a herbicide is to make sure you use the full-strength stuff – not the watered-down variety you find at the grocery store. And remember that rain will quickly wash it away, so you’ll need to reapply if there’s a shower in the forecast.

36. Make a vinaigrette

There are a few considerations to have in mind when making a vinaigrette with apple cider vinegar. First, start with high-quality vinegar. You want to use something that is unpasteurized and unfiltered. Besides, use sweetener to balance out the sourness of the apple cider vinegar.

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A good ratio to start with is 3 parts acid to 1 part sweetener. And third, make sure to taste your dressing as you go! This will help you adjust the seasoning and get the perfect flavor combination. You can also add any other flavors, such as mustard, honey, or garlic.

37. Trick for fresh breath

According to experts, apple cider vinegar can be used as a natural remedy for bad breath. ACV’s acidic nature helps break down food particles and bacteria, which can cause bad breath. While the acetic acid in vinegar may make your mouth feel acidic, it can kill bacteria and freshen your breath.

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To use apple cider vinegar for fresh breath, mix 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with 1 cup of water and gargle with the mixture. Spit it out after gargling. Repeat this DIY rinse several times a week for the best results. To freshen your breath naturally, reach for the apple cider vinegar!

38. Efficient skin toner 

Skin toners are a great way to improve your complexion and make your skin look and feel healthier. Made with natural constituents like apple cider vinegar and rose water, they can be a great alternative to harsh commercial products. Here’s how to make a skin toner with apple cider vinegar and rose water.

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Combine 1 part apple cider vinegar with 2 parts water in a clean bottle. Add a few drops of rose water, screw on the lid, and shake well to combine. Apply on cotton or a pad soaked in the toner to clean the skin, avoiding the eye area. Let dry before continuing the skincare routine. 

39. Sore throat cure 

You may not have to take medicines for sore throat next time if you have an ACV bottle in your kitchen. There are a few different ways to use apple cider vinegar to help get rid of a sore throat. Mix 1/2 teaspoon of ACV in a glass of warm water and drink it.

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Another way is to gargle with 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar mixed with 1 cup of warm water. If you try using ACV to treat your sore throat, dilute it in warm water and use only pure, raw, unprocessed apple cider vinegar. 

40. Treat baby’s cradle cap

Cradle cap is a condition that causes a build-up of flakes and sebum on the scalp of newborns. While it’s not harmful, it can be unsightly and uncomfortable for babies. Apple cider vinegar is nature’s antiseptic and anti-fungal agent, so it makes sense that it could be effective in treating cradle caps.

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It’s also full of minerals and vitamins like vitamins A, C, and E, which may help to nourish the scalp and promote hair growth. Just dilute the apple cider vinegar with an equal amount of water and apply it to the affected areas. Leave it for 10-15 minutes, then rinse off with warm water.