Vinegar is often praised as a natural, all-purpose cleaner — but in reality, it can cause serious and costly damage when used on the wrong surfaces. At ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons – North Shore, we’ve seen vinegar dull hardwood floors, etch granite countertops, corrode electronics, and even create toxic fumes when mixed with bleach.
In our new blog, “Put Down the Vinegar: 12 Household Surfaces You Should Never Clean With It,” we break down the top mistakes to avoid and safer cleaning options every homeowner should know. Highlights include:
Hardwood Floors – Vinegar weakens finishes and damages wood fibers.
Granite & Marble – Acid etches natural stone, leaving permanent marks.
Electronics – Screen coatings and components can be ruined.
Bleach Combinations – Mixing with vinegar produces chlorine gas, a toxic hazard.
For more than 40 years, our IICRC-certified team has been trusted by families throughout Evanston, Wilmette, Winnetka, Glencoe, Highland Park, and Lake Forest. As a 2025 Inc. 5000 Honoree, a Chicago Star Award winner, and proud members of the Restoration Industry Association (RIA), we are dedicated to protecting homes across the North Shore.
📖 Read the full blog here.
If a cleaning mistake has already caused damage, call us at (847) 316-9145. We’re available 24/7 to restore and protect your North Shore home.
