Homemade Vinegar Weed Killer That Actually Works — Safe for Kids & Pets
Kill weeds without harsh chemicals — just vinegar, salt, and dish soap. We've been using this in our yard for years and it works. No Roundup, nothing we'd worry about with our kids playing outside.
The Recipe:
— 1 gallon white vinegar (5% acidity)
— 1 cup table salt (optional — see note below)
— 1 tablespoon dish soap
Mix and spray directly on weeds. Works best on a sunny day.
Metric measurements (thanks to viewer Andrew Smith!):
— 1 US gallon = 3.785 litres
— 1 cup salt = 288g / 236ml
— 1 tablespoon = 15ml
Want a stronger ready-made version? We use this one: [Amazon link] https://amzn.to/2ZZaKFA
Does Roundup or glyphosate and other synthetics work better? Honest take: yes. Commercial weed killers are more effective and longer lasting. But we made the switch because we weren't comfortable using them in areas where our kids and dog play. This solution does the job well enough that we've never gone back, and that tradeoff works for our family.
Important tips:
— Don't spray grass or plants you want to keep — it will kill them
— The salt is optional. The vinegar is doing to the heavy work, but the salt can help reduce or slow regrowth. Only use salt on driveways, patios, or hardscapes — it degrades soil and prevents future growth. Be sure to test the solution on hard surfaces, the salt can damage some pavers, natural stone, and concrete over time.
— For areas where you want to plant later, skip the salt
— Handle carefully — rinse skin or eyes immediately if contacted
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