DIY All Purpose Citrus Cleaner

So it’s finally Spring, and Summer is around the corner. Spring cleaning often includes the smell of bleach and other chemical-based cleaners, right? What if you could use the peels from citrus fruits to make a household cleaner? An all-purpose DIY cleaner safe for children and pets?  What could be better?

So save those lemon, orange and grapefruit peels from the compost or garbage. With the help of white vinegar, a DIY all-purpose cleaner is sure to brighten your home.

Why use a natural cleaner?

• D-limonene, naturally found in citrus fruits provides a chemical-free degreaser.

• Vinegar, with its natural acidity, cuts soap scum and gunk build up.

With a little elbow grease, these natural ingredients create an ideal alternative to chemical based cleaners.

Here’s a simple recipe for a tried and true homemade cleaner with vinegar that works.

Homemade Citrus Cleaner with Vinegar

1. Fill a large canning jar with orange and lemon peels (or grapefruit peels)

2. Add white vinegar to completely cover the peels

3. Cap and sit in a cool dark place for 2 weeks

4. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth into a large spray bottle, and an equal amount of purified (boiled and cooled) water

Check out @hippiechemist on Instagram for more homemade cleaning alternatives, and www.hippiechemist.com for natural wellness products.