This common household citrus can be used for cleaning, deodorizing, and beyond.
18 Unexpected Ways to Clean with Lemons Around Your House
Lemons are not only great for adding flavor to your dishes but also for cleaning and deodorizing around your house. Their natural acidity makes them effective at cutting through grease, dissolving grime, and neutralizing odors. Here are 18 unexpected ways to use lemons for cleaning and beyond:
1. Brighten Whites in Laundry
Add a half-cup of lemon juice to your washing machine’s drum to brighten whites and remove stains. The natural acid helps to lift stains and enhance the whiteness of your clothes.
- Tip: Lemon juice can also be added to a load of colored clothes to help prevent fading.
2. Clean and Deodorize the Garbage Disposal
Cut a lemon into quarters and drop them down the garbage disposal. Turn on the disposal and let the lemon run through to help clean and deodorize the blades and pipes.
- Tip: For a deeper clean, sprinkle baking soda into the disposal first, followed by lemon juice.
3. Remove Hard Water Stains
Lemon juice can effectively remove hard water stains from faucets, showerheads, and tiles. Simply apply lemon juice directly to the stains and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before scrubbing.
- Tip: For stubborn stains, combine lemon juice with a bit of baking soda for extra scrubbing power.
4. Clean Cutting Boards
Rub half a lemon over your cutting board to disinfect and remove odors. The acidity helps kill bacteria and freshens the board.
- Tip: Sprinkle coarse salt on the board before rubbing with lemon to help with scrubbing.
5. Polish Metal Fixtures
Lemon juice can be used to polish tarnished metal fixtures, such as faucets, door handles, and other brass or copper items. Combine lemon juice with a bit of baking soda to create a paste and scrub with a soft cloth.
- Tip: Rinse with water and buff dry for a shiny finish.
6. Clean the Microwave
Place a bowl of water with lemon slices in the microwave and heat it on high for 5 minutes. The steam will loosen grime, making it easier to wipe away with a cloth.
- Tip: Add a few tablespoons of vinegar to the water for extra cleaning power.
7. Deodorize the Refrigerator
Place a small bowl of lemon juice or lemon peels in your refrigerator to neutralize odors and keep your fridge smelling fresh.
- Tip: Replace the bowl every few weeks for ongoing freshness.
8. Remove Stains from Plastic Containers
Rub lemon juice directly onto stains on plastic containers to remove discoloration. Let it sit for a few minutes before washing with soap and water.
- Tip: For persistent stains, sprinkle salt on the plastic before applying lemon juice.
9. Clean and Shine Windows
Mix lemon juice with water in a spray bottle and use it to clean windows and mirrors. The natural acidity cuts through grime and leaves a streak-free shine.
- Tip: Use a microfiber cloth for the best results.
10. Unclog Drains
Pour half a cup of lemon juice and half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of hot water. This combination helps dissolve clogs and neutralize odors.
- Tip: Repeat if necessary for stubborn clogs.
11. Deodorize Trash Cans
Place lemon peels or lemon-scented cotton balls in your trash cans to help neutralize unpleasant odors.
- Tip: You can also sprinkle a bit of lemon juice on the bottom of the can before placing a new bag inside.
12. Freshen Up Garbage Disposal
Lemon ice cubes can help freshen up your garbage disposal. Simply freeze lemon juice in an ice cube tray and drop a few cubes into the disposal. Run the disposal to grind the cubes and freshen the blades.
- Tip: Add a bit of vinegar to the lemon juice before freezing for added cleaning power.
13. Clean Shower Doors
Mix lemon juice with a bit of baking soda to create a paste that can be used to scrub shower doors and remove soap scum and water spots.
- Tip: Rinse thoroughly with water and dry with a clean cloth.
14. Remove Odors from Hands
Rub your hands with lemon juice to remove strong odors, like garlic or fish. The acid helps neutralize the smell and leaves your hands fresh.
- Tip: Combine with a bit of salt for extra scrubbing power.
15. Clean Coffee Makers
Run a cycle with lemon juice and water through your coffee maker to clean and deodorize it. This helps remove mineral deposits and keeps your coffee tasting fresh.
- Tip: Follow up with a cycle of plain water to rinse out any remaining lemon residue.
16. Disinfect Cutting Boards
Rub a cut lemon over your cutting board, especially after using it for raw meat. The acidity helps disinfect and kill bacteria.
- Tip: Let the lemon juice sit for a few minutes before rinsing.
17. Polish Wood Furniture
Mix lemon juice with olive oil to create a natural wood polish. Apply with a soft cloth to clean and shine wooden furniture.
- Tip: Test the polish on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the finish.
18. Clean Stovetop
Mix lemon juice with baking soda to form a paste and use it to clean greasy stovetops. The acidity of the lemon helps cut through grease, while the baking soda acts as a gentle abrasive.
- Tip: Wipe down with a damp cloth to remove any residue and dry with a clean towel.
Final Thoughts
Lemons are a powerful, natural cleaning agent that can tackle a wide variety of household tasks. By incorporating these unexpected lemon cleaning tips into your routine, you’ll not only benefit from the fresh, citrusy scent but also make your cleaning process more eco-friendly and efficient.
