Cruise Cleaning Hacks: How to Safely Pack Vinegar and Soap for Your Voyage

Why Savvy Cruisers Bring Vinegar and Soap on Board

At first glance, your cruise cabin might seem perfectly clean — but that’s not always the case. Cleanliness has become such a hot topic that there’s even an online tracker showing just how sanitary (or questionable) your cruise ship really is. Because of this, many seasoned travelers on the Cruise Critic forums pack small bottles of vinegar and mild soap to help with odors and to disinfect surfaces they’ll be touching throughout the trip.

What You Can (and Can’t) Bring on a Cruise

Cruise lines have fairly strict packing rules, especially when it comes to liquids. However, those rules typically apply to drinks, not toiletries. Just like you can pack shampoo or mouthwash, small amounts of vinegar and dish soap are usually allowed. To avoid any issues, use lightweight plastic bottles instead of glass and be prepared to explain what’s inside if asked.

One Cruise Critic member, @redstapler7, shared their experience:

“On last year’s cruise, my mother-in-law brought a small bottle of cider vinegar. She explained it to the terminal security, and they were fine with it.”

In most cases, the staff won’t even notice it in your bag — but transparency helps avoid confusion.

Tips for Flying to Your Cruise

If you’re flying with carry-on luggage only, pack your liquids in TSA-approved travel bottles under 3.4 ounces. You can easily find them at Dollar Tree or similar stores, and they’re reusable for future trips. Having these on hand allows you to deal with everything from smudged mirrors to questionable counters without depending on the ship’s cleaning staff.

Vinegar: The Cruise Multi-Tool

Vinegar is more versatile than most people realize. Some travelers use it as a natural cleaner, while others rely on it for personal care. Cruise Critic user @DennysDad shared a tip:

“Soak your dentures in vinegar overnight, then add a drop of dish soap on a toothbrush to clean them. My dentist says it’s the most effective chemical-free method.”

Other forum members mentioned that vinegar can help with jellyfish stings, and some travelers take apple cider vinegar for health benefits like aiding digestion or reducing acid reflux — though research on its effectiveness is still mixed.

How to Pack It Smartly

If you use vinegar for health or personal care, @pcvtmom recommends packing it alongside your toiletries and medications. It’s unlikely security will question it. For a more convenient option, some cruisers bring apple cider vinegar capsules or gummies instead of liquid vinegar — no spills, no mess.

The Takeaway

Bringing small bottles of vinegar and mild soap might seem unusual, but these travel essentials can make your cruise cleaner and more comfortable. Whether you’re sanitizing surfaces, freshening the air, or maintaining your personal hygiene routine, these simple items can make a big difference during your voyage.

For even more helpful ideas, check out lesser-known packing tips for your next cruise adventure.