Grease and grime in the kitchen can be a real pain to clean without resorting to harsh chemical cleaners, which are not only costly but also packed with toxins. But worry not, as half a lemon’s worth of peel is all you need to tackle this issue!
Simply take that lemon peel, add a pinch of salt, and scrub away at greasy, grimy areas. Afterward, wipe down with a clean cloth. Do be mindful, though, as some countertop surfaces, like marble, may be sensitive to acids and should be avoided.
**All-Purpose Cleaner**
Lemon water is an amazing natural disinfectant. It cuts through grease, sterilizes surfaces, and leaves everything smelling fresh. For an all-purpose cleaner, try combining leftover lemon peels with white vinegar. Fill a jar with the peels and vinegar, and let it sit for about two weeks to allow the mixture to infuse.
Once ready, strain the peel-vinegar mixture into a spray bottle. Top it up with water, give it a good shake, and voilà! You’ve got yourself a homemade, all-natural cleaning product.
**Deodorize the Fridge and Microwave**
Leftover food odors in the fridge and microwave can be a real nuisance. But lemon peels to the rescue again! Place some peels in a bowl and pop it in the fridge; the citrusy fragrance will help neutralize those unpleasant smells.
For the microwave, put some peels in a bowl with a little water and heat it up for 2-3 minutes. The steam and lemon oil will fill the microwave, making it easier to wipe away any grime. Carefully remove the bowl and use a cloth to clean the inside of your appliance, leaving it fresh and clean.
**Dishwashing Liquid**
Instead of using commercially produced dish soap, which is often packed with industrial chemicals, why not try a natural alternative? Lemon peels, when combined with baking soda, create a fantastic cleaning agent. The baking soda reacts with the citric acid in the peels to create a fizzing, CO2-generating, grease-cutting solution that also softens water and is gentle on your hands.
**Scorched Pan Savior**
Forgot about that pan on the stove and now it’s all burnt and blackened? No problem! Fill the pan with water, toss in some lemon peels, and boil for about 15 minutes. The burnt-on food should start to lift, making it easier to wash away.
There you have it! A few simple ways to make the most of those lemon peels and keep your kitchen clean, fresh, and chemical-free.