This simple trick with salt and lemon peel is an incredible, all-natural cleaning solution that works wonders around the house. Lemon peels have natural oils that cut through grease, remove stains, and leave a fresh citrus scent. When combined with salt, they create a mildly abrasive cleaner that can scrub away stubborn grime and disinfect surfaces without harsh chemicals.
Here’s how to use this powerful combination to keep your home sparkling!
Why Salt and Lemon Work So Well Together
- Lemon’s Natural Acids: The citric acid in lemon is excellent for breaking down stains, removing soap scum, and neutralizing odors.
- Salt’s Abrasive Power: Salt adds scrubbing power to remove stubborn stains and grime, making it easier to clean surfaces like sinks, countertops, and more.
How to Use Salt and Lemon Peel for Cleaning
1. Clean Sinks and Faucets
- Instructions:
- Sprinkle a small amount of salt directly onto the surface of your sink or faucet.
- Take a used lemon half (or just the peel) and rub it over the salt-covered surface. The abrasive salt and lemon acid work together to remove limescale, rust, and grime.
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water and wipe with a clean cloth for a sparkling finish.
2. Remove Cutting Board Stains
- Instructions:
- Sprinkle salt generously onto your cutting board.
- Use the cut side of a lemon or a lemon peel to scrub the board, especially on stained areas.
- Rinse with warm water and let dry. This also helps neutralize odors left from cutting foods like garlic or onions.
3. Deodorize and Freshen Garbage Disposals
- Instructions:
- Place some salt and lemon peels directly into the garbage disposal.
- Turn on the disposal with a small amount of cold water running. The lemon peel deodorizes, while the salt scrubs the disposal blades.
4. Polish Metal Pots and Pans
- Instructions:
- Sprinkle salt onto the surface of copper or stainless steel pots and pans.
- Rub the salt with a lemon half, applying pressure on any tarnished spots.
- Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth for a shiny, polished look.
5. Clean Stovetops and Ovens
- Instructions:
- Sprinkle salt on greasy or stained areas of your stovetop or oven.
- Use a lemon peel to scrub over the salt-covered areas to cut through grease.
- Wipe clean with a damp cloth.
Tips for Best Results
- Use Kosher Salt or Sea Salt: These types of salt work best as they have larger, more abrasive grains.
- Avoid on Delicate Surfaces: Don’t use this mixture on natural stone surfaces like marble, as lemon acid can damage them.
- Test First: For surfaces you’re unsure of, try a small test area to ensure it doesn’t scratch or damage.
This quick and effective cleaning hack with salt and lemon peel will leave your home fresh, clean, and chemical-free!
