Regular household vinegar is about 5 percent acetic acid and can work on young weeds, but a stronger 20 percent horticultural vinegar from a garden center works better. Wear gloves and eye protection with the stronger stuff.
Bye-Bye Weeds: My Favorite Natural Weed Killer
Most store-bought weed killers are loaded with harsh chemicals, not ideal with kids and pets around. A simple, natural alternative, vinegar, works like a charm when used the right way.
Choose the Right Vinegar Strength
Mix It With Dish Soap (and Maybe Salt)
A teaspoon of dish soap helps vinegar stick to leaves. Salt can be added for cracks in a driveway or sidewalk, but it lingers in soil and can prevent future growth there.
Timing Is Everything
Spray on a hot, sunny day with no rain in the forecast; the heat helps the vinegar burn weeds faster. Soak the leaves thoroughly but avoid spraying plants you want to keep.
Know What to Expect
Weeds start to wilt and brown within a few hours. Tougher weeds may need a second spray a few days later, but most shrivel up with one good treatment.
Works Best on Young, Shallow-Rooted Weeds
Deep-rooted weeds like dandelions may still need to be pulled by hand after the vinegar weakens them, but it definitely makes the job easier.
Switching to vinegar makes weed control safer, cheaper, and a lot more eco-friendly.
Got a handy tip of your own?
Reply and let us know, we love hearing your tips.
This edition is part of the Genius House Hacks archive: 20+ years of tips, rebuilt from the original Handy Hints newsletter. Browse more hacks →