Don’t throw away those lemon and orange peels! Instead, turn them into a natural, effective, and pleasant household cleaner with just vinegar. This simple and environmentally beneficial DIY project not only lowers trash but also provides a non-toxic alternative to chemical-based cleaning supplies. Here’s how to create your citrus-infused vinegar cleanser.
Ingredients:
- Lemon and orange peels
- White vinegar
- A big glass jar with a lid
Instructions:
1. Collect the Peels: Save the peels of oranges and lemons. These can be collected over several days and stored in the refrigerator to keep them fresh until you have enough to fill a glass jar.
2. Prepare the Jar: Put the citrus peels in a glass jar. Fill it halfway or more, depending on how strong you want your infusion.
3. Add Vinegar: Pour white vinegar into the jar until the citrus peels are completely submerged. The acids in vinegar, coupled with the oils in citrus peels, produce a potent cleaning solution.
4. Seal and Store: Close the jar tightly with its lid. Store the jar in a dark, cool place for about 2-3 weeks to let the citrus oils fully infuse into the vinegar. The longer it sits, the more potent the cleaner will be.
5. Strain and Transfer: After the infusion period, strain the liquid to remove all peels and any residue. Transfer the citrus-infused vinegar into a spray bottle for easy use. You can dilute it with water if you find the scent too strong or if you plan to use it on delicate surfaces. A good ratio to start with is half water and half vinegar.
Uses and Benefits:
Multi-Purpose Cleaner: This citrus-infused vinegar is suitable for cleaning glass, mirrors, countertops, and other surfaces. It works particularly well in removing grease and disinfecting surfaces.
Natural Deodorizer: The fresh citrus aroma naturally neutralizes odors, making this cleaner perfect for kitchen and bathroom surfaces.
Eco-Friendly: Making your cleaner reduces the usage of toxic chemicals in your house while also reducing plastic waste from commercial cleaning products.
Tips:
- Always test the cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it does not harm the surface.
- Avoid using vinegar on natural stone surfaces such as granite or marble because the acid can etch the stone.
This DIY citrus cleaner is not only a terrific way to repurpose kitchen waste, but it also helps you keep your home cleaner and fresher naturally. Furthermore, it is less expensive and more environmentally friendly.
