Contrary to popular belief, lemons have more to offer than just a refreshing citrus flavor. They can also serve as a natural and effective cleaning agent for your home. The citric acid found in lemons has certain antibacterial and antiseptic properties, making them suitable for killing bacteria and germs, eliminating mold and mildew, and removing rust, among other things.
Lemons are also readily available and affordable, while also serving as a more natural and non-toxic alternative to the endless amounts of chemicals in commercial household cleaning products. If you’re interested in maximizing the cleaning potential of lemons, here are a few methods you can try!
All-Purpose Cleaner
Instead of relying solely on store-bought cleaning products, you can create your own solution at home. Grab an empty spray bottle and mix equal parts lemon juice and water. Shake the bottle to ensure proper mixing, and then spray the solution onto countertops and surfaces. Wipe away the residue with a cloth and enjoy the newly disinfected surface.
Microwave Cleaner
To tackle the stubborn food particles and grime inside your microwave, take a microwave-safe bowl and fill it with water. Squeeze an entire lemon into the bowl and place it in the microwave. Heat the bowl on high for a few minutes until the water boils and steams.
After heating, leave the bowl inside the microwave for a few more minutes. The steam will loosen and soften the dirt and debris, making it easier to wipe away with a damp cloth or sponge.
Glass and Mirror Cleaner
It may be intimidating to clean your mirrors at home, especially when you’re worried about leaving marks with every swipe of your cloth. To achieve streak-free glass surfaces, prepare a spray bottle and combine equal parts lemon juice and water. Shake the mixture to blend it well.
Spray the solution onto glass surfaces, mirrors, or windows, and then wipe away the residue using a clean microfiber cloth. This method not only eliminates bacteria and germs but also leaves a streak-free finish.
Refrigerator Deodorizer
If your refrigerator has an unpleasant odor even after removing the source, you can actually neutralize the smell with a lemon. Place a halved lemon in a small container inside the refrigerator and let it sit for a few days. The lemon will absorb and remove the odor, leaving a refreshing scent in its place. Depending on the intensity of the odor, replace the lemon every couple of weeks to continue deodorizing and maintaining a pleasant smell.
Rust Remover
To tackle rust on metal surfaces, sprinkle rock salt over the affected area and squeeze lemon juice on top. Allow it to sit for a while as the lemon juice breaks down the rust. Wipe off the mixture and rinse the area afterward. For more stubborn rust stains, consider mixing lemon juice with white vinegar to create a stronger solution.
While lemons are effective for household cleaning, it’s important to observe certain precautions. When in doubt about a particular ingredient or product, it’s best to consult the experts.
Luce Home offers affordable cleaning packages and services tailored to your specific household cleaning needs, including part-time maid and house cleaning services that sends over a part time house cleaning maid to handle all your household cleaning for you. Our professional cleaners are highly trained and experienced, ensuring a sparkling clean home after every session.
Don’t hesitate to schedule your first cleaning appointment today!
