How to make homemade citrus peel cleaner

Making an all-purpose cleaner using citrus peels is an easy, eco-friendly, and cost-effective way to reduce waste while keeping your home clean. Here's how you can do it:

Ingredients:

• Citrus peels (e.g., orange, lemon, lime, or grapefruit peels)
• White vinegar
• Water

Equipment:

• A clean jar with a lid (e.g., a glass mason jar)
• Strainer or sieve
• Spray bottle

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Citrus Peels:

   • Collect and clean the peels from citrus fruits. Remove any pulp or seeds.
   • Ensure the peels are dry before adding them to the jar to avoid introducing moisture that could lead to mould.

2. Fill the Jar:

   • Fill the jar about two-thirds full with citrus peels.

3. Add White Vinegar:

   • Pour white vinegar into the jar, fully covering the citrus peels.

4. Infuse:

   • Seal the jar tightly and let it sit in a cool, dark place for 2–4 weeks. Shake the jar occasionally to mix the contents and enhance the infusion process.

5. Strain the Mixture:

   • After the infusion period, strain the liquid through a sieve or cheesecloth to remove the citrus peels.

6. Dilute with Water:

   • For general cleaning purposes, mix the citrus-infused vinegar with an equal part of water (1:1 ratio). For tougher cleaning tasks, you can use the solution undiluted. I usually use it undiluted, as I always have plenty in stock.

7. Transfer to a Spray Bottle:

   • Pour the diluted or undiluted mixture into a spray bottle for easy application.

How to Use:

• Spray the cleaner on surfaces such as kitchen counters, bathroom tiles, and glass.
• Wipe clean with a cloth or sponge.
• Avoid using on natural stone surfaces like marble or granite, as vinegar can damage these materials.

Optional Additions:

• Essential Oils: Add 10–20 drops of essential oil (e.g., tea tree, lavender, or eucalyptus) for additional antibacterial properties and fragrance.
• Baking Soda: For extra scrubbing power, sprinkle baking soda on surfaces before applying the cleaner.

This DIY cleaner is natural, biodegradable, and effective for everyday cleaning tasks!

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About the Author

Doreen Jachmann from Nourished Landscapes has been providing permaculture services for over 10 years.

Doreen is passionate about helping people create sustainable and resilient landscapes.

Nourished Landscapes offer a variety of services, including:

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