Make a Citrus and Vinegar Household Cleaner
Are you looking for a non-toxic solution to cleaning up household messes or are you in a pinch and don't have any cleaner on hand? You don't need to spend a lot of money on organic cleaners or head to the store; instead, you can make effective and great smelling cleaning fluid at home from two really simple kitchen cupboard ingredients, namely citrus and vinegar.
Contents
Steps
Preparing the Citrus Peels
- Peel citrus fruits, such as oranges or lemons. The peels will be mixed with vinegar to create your solution. Either eat the fruit or use it in another recipe.
- Fill the bottle or jar with citrus peel. Depending on the size of the opening, you may need to chop the peel to fit. And be sure to fill the entire jar with peel.
Adding the Vinegar
- Pour the white vinegar into the jar or bottle. Fill almost to the top, leaving enough space needed to cap the bottle or screw on the jar lid.
Blending the Mixture
- Place the jar or bottle in a cool, dry area. Allow the mixture to blend and “marinate” for approximately 10 days. This will help the essential oils to mix with the vinegar, which not only creates a good odor, but also turns this liquid into a potent cleaner.
Using the Cleaner
- Use the citrus vinegar cleaning solution on nearly any surface in the home. However, always test it in an inconspicuous area when using for the first time, especially on wood surfaces before using. This solution may discolor wood, but is usually ideal for cleaning ceramic, stone, porcelain or laminate surfaces.
Tips
- The vinegar is an all-purpose cleaning agent that has long been used by household managers to remove grime and any residue; in this solution, it acts as the true cleaning agent. Citrus has the power to cut through grease and dissolve it, helping to add to the cleaning power of the vinegar; it also leaves behind a pleasant odor.
- Place discarded citrus peel in the garbage disposal to disinfect and deodorize the sink. Or, recycle the orange peel in your organic compost heap!
- Remove citrus peels from solution after 10 days of use.
Warnings
- Although this solution is non-toxic, it will burn if sprayed directly or near the eyes. Never spray cleaning agents near the face of a person or animal.
Things You'll Need
- A container to hold your cleaning fluid, such as a clear spray bottle, a glass or bottle
- Citrus fruit or citrus essential oil, such as lemon, lime or orange; or, tea tree oil; if using peel, have enough to fill the container
- A bottle of white vinegar
Related Articles
- Make a Natural Disinfectant
- Make Homemade Cleaning Spray
- Make a Carpet Cleaning Solution
- Make Homemade Floor Cleaner
- Make Disposable Household Cleaning Wipes
- Make Window Spray with Lemon and Vinegar
- Make a Household Cleaner from Oranges and Water
- Remove a Birthmark with Apple Cider Vinegar
