We all love the refreshing and immune boosting zing of taking a bite of an orange or tasting tart lemon juice, and it's the time of year where citrus is at its prime!
Now is the perfect time to stock up on oranges, mandarins, lemons and all the citrus currently in season.
Why use citrus for cleaning? Citrus contains d-limonene, a natural solvent that cuts through grease and dirt, and will leave your house smelling fresher than ever.
Plus, by using the whole fruit you reduce waste and take care of the planet (and your wallet) in the process!
Let's explore our top 5 ways to use the rind once you have enjoyed the juicy flesh to reduce waste and have a sparkling clean, toxic free home!
Orange Vinegar – Mould remover
This is one powerful combination and so simple to make.
- Fill a glass container (ensure it has a lid) with orange peels (Any citrus peels will work).
- Pour white vinegar to cover the peels (ensure you cover them in their entirety to prevent mould growing on the peel).
- Close container tightly and place in dark place for several weeks. (I put mine under the kitchen sink for 2-4 weeks.) The orange peels will infuse the vinegar with natural scent and color.
- Remove from cupboard, strain out the peels, and use for cleaning. For a powerful mould remover add a dash of tea tree oil to the mix to rid your home of mould and prevent it coming back.
Eco-Friendly All-Purpose Cleaner
This has been my go-to use for the peels from lemon and lime for years. It cuts grease, disinfects, and smells great. Simply submerge the peels (or juiced whole fruits) in vinegar, let them steep two weeks or longer, then mix the resulting liquid 50/50 with water for a great counter spray, bathroom cleaner, and all-purpose cleaner.
To make this cleaner, Purchase a large bottle of vinegar, pour some out into a small spray bottle (this part can be used for mould remover portion), and then replace the liquid with peels. You can keep adding extra peels to the mix as you use the fruit too. Make sure that the peels are completely submerged in vinegar to prevent mould growing on the rinds.
Set aside for 1-2 weeks then decant into a spray bottle to use as you would each
Frugal Sponge
If you juiced a lemon or orange while cooking, wipe that sucker all over the place before discarding it: cutting board, sink and benches - just watch for some stone bench tops and marble as this can damage these materials.
Dishwasher Booster
After you've squeezed the juice out of the lemon, just throw the remains right into the bottom of the dishwasher. It will help to make your dishes cleaner, and it will freshen the machine at the same time.
Clean Your Wooden Cutting Board
Freshen up your wooden cutting boards! Sprinkle salt all over your wooden cutting boards and scrub with the cut side of half of a lemon. This will help to remove pungent odours from other foods like garlic, onions and ginger.
Mineral Deposit Remover
Decalcify the inside of a tea kettle by boiling citrus peels inside it, then letting it sit for an hour. Or soak cloudy glassware in a sink full of hot water and citrus rinds for sparkling glasses.
