There’s nothing more present in the public consciousness right now than the environment. The chemicals in many cleaning products and the problems they can cause for the world around us are becoming a hotly debated topic. Trying to choose greener products is one solution, but there are some things you already have hanging around in your cupboard that have more cleaning power than you think.  

The humble lemon is a powerhouse of cleaning clout. It contains: 

  • Citric acid – A mild acid that fights water spots and hard water film.
  • D-Limonene – A powerful degreaser and solvent.
  • Lemon oil – A powerful natural disinfectant (which smells amazing, too).

Ways of incorporating lemons into your daily cleaning routine

  •  Polishing cutlery: Mix the juice of one lemon in a cup of warm water and use a cloth dipped in this solution to buff any discoloured utensils. Rinse with warm water afterwards and watch your knives and forks shine.  
  • Scouring chinaware: A lot of chinaware, particularly white pieces, can become discoloured over time. Use one part lemon juice to two parts salt and give it a good scrub to return it to its original lustre.  
  • Shining taps: Rub a bit of lemon peel over your taps (and any other metal fixtures) and watch any rust or blemishes disappear. Wash off and dry with a soft cloth for maximum shine.  
  • Refresh wooden appliances: It might sound odd, but trust us on this. Chopping boards, rolling pins etc. are notorious for taking on the smell of everything they come into contact with. Simply cut a lemon in half and rub it all over the wood that needs a refresh. No need to wash it off, just let the lemon do its work.  
  • Simply place a bowl of water with a few slices of lemon in your microwave and heat for a few moments. Not only will any food and grease splashes be easier to wipe away, but your microwave will also smell clean and fresh. 

Homemade cleaning polish

You can even make your own cleaning products using lemons and a couple of other things you can find in your kitchen. For example, this furniture polish is completely natural and lemon-based. You can use it for almost anything, from polishing glossed or wooden furniture, to dusting leather upholstery, to removing finger marks and smudges from stainless steel appliances.  
 It’s also super easy to make. Just combine: 
  • 1 tbsp pure olive oil 
  • ½ tbsp white vinegar 
  • ½ tbsp lemon juice 
  • 6 drops orange/lemon essential oil 
Mix the above together and decant into a small pot or spray bottle, and you’re ready to start polishing. Just remember, a little goes a long way, so spray carefully! It smells amazing!  
And finally, the best way we can suggest using lemon is in a large G&T.. Sit back and enjoy! 

 

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