When most people hear apple cider vinegar (ACV), they think of salad dressings, detox drinks, or maybe a quick home remedy for a sore throat. But did you know this golden liquid has a ton of hidden uses that go way beyond the kitchen?
Apple cider vinegar has been used for centuries in natural remedies, cleaning hacks, and even beauty routines. Thanks to its antibacterial, antifungal, and acidic properties, ACV can do so much more than you realize. Today, we’re diving into 10 surprising and unusual ways to use apple cider vinegar—and trust me, after this, you’ll want to keep a bottle in every room of your house.
1. Natural Deodorizer for Shoes 👟
Forget those store-bought sprays loaded with chemicals. A simple ACV spritz can neutralize shoe odor in minutes.
How to use it:
- Mix equal parts ACV and water in a spray bottle.
- Spray lightly inside sneakers, boots, or gym shoes.
- Let them air dry overnight.
Why it works: ACV kills odor-causing bacteria and leaves shoes smelling fresh without the artificial perfume.
2. DIY Fruit & Veggie Wash 🍇🥬
You may rinse your produce under water, but that won’t remove wax, pesticides, or bacteria completely. ACV makes an excellent natural produce cleaner.
How to use it:
- Fill a bowl with water and add 2–3 tablespoons of ACV.
- Soak fruits and veggies for 5–10 minutes.
- Rinse well before eating.
This method removes more surface germs than water alone and keeps produce fresher longer.
3. Scalp Rinse for Shiny Hair ✨
Did you know ACV can replace your expensive clarifying shampoo? It helps remove product buildup, balance scalp pH, and add shine.
How to use it:
- Mix 2 tbsp ACV with 1 cup of water.
- After shampooing, pour over your scalp and hair.
- Let sit for 2–3 minutes, then rinse.
Your hair will feel cleaner, softer, and look naturally glossy.
4. DIY All-Purpose Cleaner 🧽
ACV is one of the best natural cleaners you can keep in your home. Unlike bleach or chemical sprays, it’s safe and eco-friendly.
How to use it:
- Mix 1 cup ACV with 1 cup water.
- Add a few drops of essential oil (like lemon or lavender) if you prefer a nice scent.
- Use it to wipe down countertops, sinks, mirrors, or bathroom surfaces.
💡 Note: Avoid using ACV on granite or marble since acids can damage stone.
5. Relieve Itchy Bug Bites 🦟
Forget reaching for the chemical creams—ACV is a natural itch reliever.
How to use it:
- Dab a cotton ball in raw ACV.
- Apply directly to the bug bite.
The acidity neutralizes the itch and reduces inflammation. This works especially well for mosquito bites!
6. Natural Fabric Softener for Laundry 🧺
Did you know commercial fabric softeners can leave residue on clothes? ACV is a cheaper, cleaner alternative.
How to use it:
- Add ½ cup of ACV to your washing machine during the rinse cycle.
It softens fabric, reduces static cling, and even helps remove lingering odors. Plus, no artificial chemicals are left behind.
7. Soothe Sunburns ☀️
When you’ve spent too much time outside, ACV can help calm redness and irritation.
How to use it:
- Add 1 cup of ACV to a cool bath.
- Soak for 10–15 minutes.
It restores skin’s natural pH balance and helps reduce the sting of sunburn.
8. Extend the Life of Fresh Flowers 🌸
Want your bouquets to last longer? ACV can keep flowers perky for days.
How to use it:
- Mix 2 tbsp ACV with 2 tbsp sugar in a vase of water.
- Add your flowers.
The vinegar kills bacteria in the water while the sugar feeds the stems.
9. Natural Weed Killer 🌿
Skip the harsh garden chemicals. ACV is strong enough to kill weeds naturally.
How to use it:
- Pour undiluted ACV directly onto weeds in your driveway, patio cracks, or garden beds.
- For extra power, mix ACV with salt and a bit of dish soap.
It works best on young weeds and prevents them from spreading.
10. Clear a Stuffy Nose 🤧
Here’s one you might not expect—ACV can help open nasal passages when you’re congested.
How to use it:
- Add 1 tbsp ACV to a cup of hot water.
- Breathe in the steam for a few minutes.
The vinegar’s acidity helps break down mucus and bacteria, giving you natural relief.
Bonus: ACV Ice Cubes 🧊
This one is a little hack you’ll love. Freeze diluted ACV (mix 1 part vinegar with 2 parts water) into ice cube trays.
Ways to use them:
- Rub on your face for a natural toner.
- Drop into a foot soak for deodorizing relief.
- Toss into the garbage disposal to freshen drains.
Important Notes Before Using ACV ⚠️
- Always dilute ACV for skin or hair use—undiluted vinegar can be too harsh.
- Test on a small area first if you have sensitive skin.
- Never use ACV on open wounds.
- For internal use (like detox drinks), talk with a doctor if you have stomach issues or are on medications.
Final Thoughts ✨
Apple cider vinegar is one of those household staples that deserves way more credit than it gets. From beauty hacks to cleaning, gardening, and even first-aid, it’s truly a multi-tasking miracle.
Next time you grab your bottle of ACV, don’t just think about salad dressing—try out some of these unexpected uses. You’ll save money, avoid chemicals, and unlock a whole new world of natural solutions.
💖 If you found these tips helpful, don’t forget to bookmark this blog post and share it with a friend who loves DIY hacks!