Don’t discard those lemon and orange peels! Instead, transform them into a natural, effective, and fragrant household cleaner using just vinegar. This simple and eco-friendly DIY project not only reduces waste but also gives you a non-toxic alternative to chemical-laden cleaning products. Here’s how to make your own citrus-infused vinegar cleaner.
Ingredients:
Lemon and orange peels
White vinegar
A large glass jar with a lid
Instructions:
Collect the Peels: Save the peels from oranges and lemons. You can collect these over several days, storing them in the refrigerator to keep them fresh until you have enough to fill a glass jar.
Prepare the Jar: Place the citrus peels in the glass jar. Try to fill it up to halfway or more, depending on how strong you want the infusion to be.
Add Vinegar: Pour white vinegar into the jar until the citrus peels are completely submerged. The acids in the vinegar combined with the oils in the citrus peels create a powerful cleaning solution.
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.
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, half vinegar.
Uses and Benefits:
Multi-Purpose Cleaner: This citrus-infused vinegar can be used to clean glass, mirrors, countertops, and more. It’s particularly effective at cutting through grease and disinfecting surfaces.
Natural Deodorizer: The fresh scent of citrus helps neutralize odors naturally, making this cleaner ideal for kitchen and bathroom surfaces.
Eco-Friendly: By making your own cleaner, you reduce the use of harmful chemicals in your home and minimize plastic waste from commercial cleaning products.
Tips:
Always test the cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it does not damage the surface.
Avoid using vinegar on natural stone surfaces like granite or marble, as the acid can etch the stone.
This homemade citrus cleaner is not only a great way to reuse kitchen scraps but also helps you maintain a cleaner, fresher home naturally. Plus, it’s cost-effective and better for the environment.
