In this blog we regularly discuss the cleaning power of vinegar. We’ve used it to treat everything from mould to windows and using vinegar and bi-carb soda did a great job cleaning my oven. The one problem with vinegar is that it smells like vinegar!
We’ve got the solution with a great recipe for an even more powerful, natural, fresh smelling all-purpose vinegar based cleaner. You're going to love it!
Citrus peel contains a compound called di-limonene, that has amazing de-greasing properties. Marinating citrus peels in white vinegar over 2 weeks releases the di-limonene, along with amazing citrus smells giving you a super-charged, great smelling natural vinegar based all-purpose cleaner.
Even better, the combination of vinegar and citrus makes this all purpose cleaner a great natural disinfectant and de-odouriser.
Quick Summary – Citrus Vinegar Spray
- Prep: Fill jar with citrus peel (lemon, orange, lime).
- Pour: Add white vinegar; seal and steep 2–3 weeks.
- Strain: Remove peels; pour liquid into spray bottle.
- Spray: Use on benchtops, sinks, tiles (avoid stone).
- Optional: Add water to dilute or essential oils for scent.
Need professional help? Call 13 27 13 or book Electrodry online.
How to Make A Citrus Peel All-Purpose Cleaner
What you'll need
- citrus peels (enough to fill your mason jar halfway)
- white Vinegar (enough to fill your mason jar halfway)
- 1 large mason jar with lid
- large glass bowl
- spray bottle (glass is best)
- mesh sieve
Instructions
- Put all your citrus peels into a mason jar until it’s half filled. This may take a week or 2, so it’s best to keep the mason jar in the fridge.
- Once the jar is half full with citrus peels, fill with white vinegar and sit it in a dark cupboard for 2 weeks.
- Once the citrus peels have had time to do their thing, strain the vinegar using a fine mesh sieve and pour it into a bottle.
- To give it some extra kick? Add in a few drops of lemon essential oil.
Directions for Use
Decant your all-purpose citrus cleaner into a spray bottle. Apply as required for cleaning, allow the cleaner 20 - 30 seconds to dwell before wiping surfaces with a clean cloth.
By allowing a short dwell time, the di-limonene from the citrus peel has the time to start breaking down grease and oils on kitchen surfaces. In addition, a 20-30 second dwell time give the anti-bacterial properties of your cleaner the opportunity to do some serious work.
