One of the best things we can do for ourselves, our children, and our pets is not only keeping our homes clean and safe from harmful pathogens, but also exploring the world of using natural cleaning alternatives as opposed to toxic chemicals. Also, the money you will save by making your own cleaning products is a great perk!
Lemons are one of nature’s many great contributions. It is not only beneficial to your health, but can also be useful in your home. It is a powerful antibacterial, and since it is highly acidic, it breaks up grease and grime with ease. It is also a very effective stain lifter. Since lemon juice can go bad after a while, be sure to keep everything that is not used within 24 hours refrigerated, and keep in mind the importance of proper labeling!
Before you begin, remember that it is always important to do an overnight spot test on any surfaces you are unsure about. Also, DO NOT use lemon juice on natural stone, granite, and stainless steel. (with the exception of the kitchen sink, which does not have a sealant on it that could be worn off by the acid in lemon juice.) Below are some house cleaning tips using lemon juice.
1. To remove those pesky stains off your cutting board, simply rub a slice of lemon over it until the stain is gone.
2. Most air fresheners can be toxic with long term exposure, so to make your own, mix 2 cups of hot water, 1/8 cup baking soda, and ½ cup of lemon juice in a spray bottle.
3. Forget conventional furniture polish, make your own! All you need is 1 cup of olive oil mixed with ½ cup lemon juice. Use sparingly.
4. Remove rust from virtually anything by putting undiluted lemon juice directly to surface and let sit for 30 minutes, then wipe clean.
5. To make your microwave fresh and clean, put 4 tbsp. lemon juice in a microwave-safe bowl with 1 cup of water, and run for 5 minutes, or until water begins to boil. The combination of steam with the juice will break up all food spots, and all you have to do after you remove the bowl is wipe clean.
6. To increase the grease-cutting power of your favorite dish washing detergent, add 1 tsp. of juice before you run the load.
7. For your own all-purpose cleaner, mix equal parts juice with distilled water.
8. Make a paste with juice and salt to clean and shine copper, brass, and stainless kitchen sinks.
9. Add 1/2 cup of lemon juice to rinse cycle in laundry as an alternative to bleach.
10. Does your kitchen sink disposal have an unpleasant odor? Try running a lemon peel down it with hot water.
11. Add 2 tbsp. juice to a spray bottle nearly full of distilled water to make your own window cleaner that also repels bugs. Do not use on windows when they are in direct sunlight.
12 . Get rid of the lime scale by applying straight lemon juice to area, let sit for 30 minutes, and wipe or rinse clean.
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