Washing machine experts warn against making this cleaning mistake with vinegar, and what to do instead

There’s a full-on debate about whether to use vinegar in your washing machine, so I called on the expertise of appliance and cleaning professionals to ask for their advice. And I’m not surprised that some people are scratching their heads over whether to use vinegar in their washing machines or not, because sometimes it's OK and sometimes it’s not.

Vinegar can be used in washing machines for several reasons, and in all instances, it serves as a cleaning aid. But the problem arises over how it is used, as there’s one instance where it’s not advised.

When it’s OK to use vinegar in your washing machine

“People like to use white vinegar in their laundry routines for a couple of reasons,” says Alicia Sokolowski, president and CEO at AspenClean. “It’s a natural and inexpensive option to solve