I wanted to share an easy toxin-free kitchen cleaner tip that also reduces waste, from my book Zero Waste Secrets: The Ultimate Guidebook For A Realistic Zero Waste Lifestyle.
This green cleaning tip and recipe is so simple but so effective…
Did you know that mainstream synthetic cleaners contain chemicals that are very toxic? They also produce a lot of greenhouse gases.
Instead, make your own natural alternative and pop it into a reusable spray bottle. By creating our own toxin-free cleaning products, we avoid so much waste (use scraps for bonus points) and don’t have to worry about using harmful chemicals.
This is amazing for any areas that get greasy but it is an all-purpose cleaner as well.
What you’ll need:
- Citrus peels 🍋🍊
- Vinegar
- Jar
- Spray bottle
Instructions:
For this you can use lemon, lime, orange, tangerine, grapefruit or any other citrus peel from the fruits you eat. You can also combine them into one jar if you wish. My absolute favourite is tangerine and in less than 24 hours it gives off a beautiful smell.
1 – Cut the citrus peel into strips, add to your jar and top up with white vinegar. Secure the lid and shake.
2 – Allow it to sit under your kitchen sink or in the pantry away from sunlight and heat sources.
3 – After several days, the citrus will have infused and your new natural cleaning solution is ready for use. For a stronger cleaner, leave it to sit for at least two weeks.
4 – Pour the mix into a spray bottle using a funnel to avoid transferring the peels. This can be diluted with 30-50% cooled boiled water.
5 top uses of citrus-infused vinegar around the home:
- Greasy, baked on messes on the stove and oven door.
- Bathroom and laundry sinks with soap scum and build up – Sprinkle a little bicarb soda or salt if you need a bit of abrasive action.
- Sweat stains – Spray recipe on marked areas for a natural laundry stain treater for sweat marks, especially on whites.
- Shower alcoves, grout and glass screens.
- Removing sticky labels.
⚠️ Avoid frequently using on rubber, wood and delicate surfaces and if unsure do a test patch first.
⚠️ Vinegar isn’t friendly in the garden so don’t pour your cleaning waste or water on anything except weeds.
To get more practical tips like this on reducing waste and toxin-free living check out my best-selling book (available as an instant download or paperback):
