Build precise vinegar mixes for weeds, tools, and soil. Pick targets, units, and additives. Get instant results, plus downloads in seconds.
When using target strength, the calculator applies dilution conservation: C1 × V1 = C2 × V2. Here C1 is stock vinegar strength, V1 is vinegar volume needed, C2 is desired final strength, and V2 is final volume.
For ratio mixes, it uses: Vinegar = V2 × (parts vinegar / total parts), and Water = V2 − Vinegar.
| Purpose | Final Volume | Stock Strength | Method | Target / Ratio | Vinegar | Water |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weed spot spray | 2.00 L | 5% | Target strength | 2% | 800 mL | 1200 mL |
| Tool and pot cleaning | 1.00 gal | 5% | Ratio | 1 : 1 | 0.50 gal | 0.50 gal |
| Mild leaf rinse | 1.50 L | 5% | Target strength | 1% | 300 mL | 1200 mL |
| Short-term soil tweak | 3.00 L | 5% | Ratio | 1 : 5 | 0.50 L | 2.50 L |
Examples are illustrative. Always test mixes on small areas first.
This calculator helps you prepare consistent vinegar solutions for spot weeds, tool cleaning, surface rinses, and gentle, short-term acidity tweaks. Choosing a purpose first provides practical concentration guidance and reduces trial-and-error. Consistency matters because small strength changes can affect leaf burn, residue, and soil biology, especially when you repeat applications over several days.
Enter stock strength and a target strength to calculate the vinegar and water needed for your final volume. This is best when you want a measurable final percentage for a controlled spray or mild rinse. The tool uses your selected units, converts to a common base, and then reports the mix in the display units you prefer. The rounding step converts precise outputs into easy measuring amounts, improving repeatability across batches.
Prefer “parts” mixing? The ratio option splits the final volume by vinegar:water parts, then estimates the resulting strength from the stock percentage. That makes ratio recipes easier to compare across different container sizes and supports quick mixing in pump sprayers, buckets, or watering cans. It also helps you avoid accidentally mixing too strong for sensitive uses.
A small dish soap dose can act as a surfactant, improving wetting on waxy leaves and dusty surfaces. Salt can increase persistence for spot applications, but it raises soil salinity and may harm beneficial microbes, so use sparingly and away from planting beds. The calculator totals additives by volume for controlled dosing and clearer documentation of what was applied.
Export CSV to log mixes, dates, and outcomes in a garden journal. Use the PDF as a printable recipe near storage shelves or in a shed binder. Mix with clean water, label containers, and test a small area before wider use. Apply on calm days, avoid desirable plants, and rinse equipment after use to reduce corrosion and lingering odor, and ensure consistent measuring habits.
Use the label value, commonly 5% for household vinegar. Stronger horticultural products vary, so enter the exact percentage to keep the dilution accurate.
The target cannot exceed the stock strength because dilution only reduces concentration. If you need a stronger mix, you must start with a stronger vinegar source.
Use strength when you need a specific final percentage. Use ratio when you want quick “parts” mixing and still want an estimated final strength for reference.
Slightly. Rounding makes measuring easier, but it can shift the final percentage a bit. Choose a smaller rounding step if you want tighter control.
No. It can improve wetting for contact applications, but too much may increase leaf damage. Start low, mix gently, and avoid using it on desirable plants.
Short-term storage is usually fine in a labeled container. Keep it sealed, away from children, and out of sun. Shake before use and rinse sprayers afterward.
Important Note: All the Calculators listed in this site are for educational purpose only and we do not guarentee the accuracy of results. Please do consult with other sources as well.