Creating a DIY cleaner with orange peels, salt, and baking soda is an excellent way to leverage natural ingredients for effective household cleaning.
This combination not only utilizes the aromatic power and natural oils of orange peels but also incorporates the gentle abrasiveness of baking soda and the disinfectant properties of salt.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make this eco-friendly cleaner, perfect for tackling greasy kitchen surfaces, bathroom tiles, and much more.
Ingredients Needed:
- Orange peels (from 2-3 oranges)
- 1 cup of baking soda
- 1/2 cup of salt (sea salt or table salt)
- White vinegar
- Airtight glass jar
- Water
- Spray bottle (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Orange Peels:
Start by peeling 2-3 oranges. You can use any type of oranges for this recipe. Once peeled, chop the peels into smaller pieces to increase the surface area, which helps in releasing more oils.
2. Dry the Orange Peels (Optional):
For a more potent cleaner, you can dry the orange peels before use. Spread the peels on a baking sheet and place them in an oven set to the lowest temperature.
Leave the door slightly ajar to allow moisture to escape. Dry until the peels are completely dehydrated, about 2-3 hours. Alternatively, you can air-dry the peels for a few days in a sunny spot.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a bowl, mix the baking soda and salt thoroughly. These ingredients will act as mild abrasives to help scrub away stains and residues.
4. Combine Ingredients in a Jar:
Place the dried (or fresh) orange peels in the airtight glass jar. Add the mixture of baking soda and salt. Pour enough white vinegar into the jar to cover all the ingredients.
The vinegar will react with the baking soda in a mild fizzing action. Close the jar tightly and shake well to mix all the ingredients.
5. Let It Infuse:
Allow the mixture to sit and infuse for at least one week. Keep the jar in a cool, dark place.
During this period, the vinegar will extract the oils from the orange peels and combine with the baking soda and salt to create a potent cleaning solution.
6. Strain and Store:
After a week, strain the mixture to remove the solid bits of orange peel and any undissolved residues. You can use a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
Transfer the liquid to a spray bottle for easy application, or keep it in another clean jar.
7. Usage:
To use your DIY orange peel cleaner, shake the bottle well before each use. Spray the solution onto the surface you wish to clean and scrub with a sponge or brush.
For tough stains, let the solution sit for a few minutes before scrubbing.
Applications of the DIY Orange Peel Cleaner:
- Kitchen Surfaces: Excellent for degreasing stovetops, counters, and sinks.
- Bathroom Cleaning: Effective for removing soap scum and water stains from tiles and glass.
- General Household Cleaning: Can be used on glass surfaces, mirrors, and even floors for a streak-free shine.
Making your own household cleaner with orange peels, salt, and baking soda is not only a sustainable choice but also a powerful alternative to chemical-based cleaners.
This all-natural cleaner offers a pleasant scent, effective cleaning power, and the satisfaction of DIY simplicity, perfect for a greener home.