Have you ever wanted to make your own all purpose cleaner? You can – with orange peels and vinegar. This easy DIY orange peel cleaner will get your home sparkling!
Benefits of Homemade Cleaners
Embracing homemade cleaners can have a profound impact on both our health and the environment. One of the key benefits is their sustainability.
By opting for environmentally friendly cleaners with vinegar and orange peels, you reduce your carbon footprint. Commercial cleaning products often contain harmful chemicals that not only could harm your health but also contribute to pollution in waterways and landfills.
Homemade cleaners, on the other hand, can be made from natural ingredients that are not only safer but also biodegradable.
Along with being environmentally friendly, by making your own cleaner using vinegar and orange peels, you’ll save money while still getting great results.
It’s also satisfying to take control over the ingredients used in your home. You no longer have to worry that you might be spraying harmful toxins around your home since you’ll be using natural and safe alternatives.
The Benefits of Vinegar for Cleaning
Vinegar has been used as a natural cleaning agent for centuries due to its acidic properties. Here are some reasons why you can use vinegar to clean so much around your home:
- Natural: Vinegar is made through the fermentation process of ethanol by acetic acid bacteria. It contains no harmful chemicals or toxins that can be found in commercial cleaning products.
- Antimicrobial properties: The acetic acid in vinegar helps kill bacteria, germs, and even mold. It is not a true disinfectant. For jobs that need it, you can make your own disinfectant, too.
- Effective against stains: Vinegar’s acidic nature makes it highly effective at breaking down tough stains like grease, dirt, and soap scum.
- Eco-friendly: Unlike conventional cleaners that can contain harmful ingredients like phosphates or chlorine bleach, vinegar is safe for both humans and the environment.
Harnessing the Power of Orange Peels
Orange peels are often discarded without realizing their incredible cleaning potential. Here’s why incorporating orange peels into your homemade cleaners is a game-changer:
- Citrus power: Orange peels contain natural oils that are powerful degreasers and deodorizers.
- Fresh scent: The natural fragrance of oranges leaves behind a refreshing scent after cleaning.
- Safe and non-toxic: Orange peels are entirely natural, making them a safe alternative to chemical-based cleaners.
- Versatility: Orange peels can be used in various cleaning applications, from countertops to bathroom fixtures.
- Repurposing food waste: It’s a great way to reuse some food waste before putting it in the compost or trash.
DIY Vinegar and Orange Peel All-Purpose Cleaner & Degreaser
It’s so easy to make orange peel and vinegar cleaner. Follow these steps:
- Gather the following ingredients:
- Vinegar (distilled white vinegar or apple cider vinegar)
- Orange peels (the more, the stronger the scent)
- A glass Mason jar with a tight-fitting lid (a well-cleaned old condiment jar is perfect)
- Fill the glass jar with orange peels. Cover the peels with vinegar.
- Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for at least two weeks. This allows the orange oil to infuse into the vinegar.
- After two weeks, strain out the orange peels using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
- Transfer the infused vinegar into a spray bottle, dilute it with water if desired, and use it as an all-purpose cleaner on various surfaces in your home.
You can also use it as a degreaser. Spray it directly onto greasy surfaces such as stovetops, ovens, or kitchen counters. Let it sit for a few minutes before wiping clean with a damp cloth.
Where to Use Your DIY Orange Peel and Vinegar Cleaning Spray
It’s great in basically any part of your home where you’d use a regular all-purpose cleaner.
Bathroom
Use orange vinegar for cleaning surfaces like sinks, bathtubs, and toilets. Spray it right onto the surface, then scrub gently using a sponge or brush. Rinse thoroughly with water afterward.
Kitchens
Spray the cleaning solution directly on grease, let it sit for a few minutes, and then wipe it clean. You can use it on any spill or area you want to clean up.
It’s even safe to use on cutting boards.
Windows
Get sparkling clean windows without streaks using this simple homemade orange vinegar window cleaner. Shake well before use and then spray directly onto windows or mirrors. Wipe clean using a microfiber cloth or paper towel for a streak-free shine.
Carpets and Upholstery
For carpets and upholstery, you can spray this mixture on directly. Let it sit for a few minutes.
Then, use a clean cloth to blot away any excess liquid. Not only will this help remove any odors, but it will also leave your carpets and upholstery looking clean and refreshed.
Pet Cages, Bedding, Toys
A veterinarian years ago told me that vinegar based cleaners are idea for cleaning surfaces your pets might lick or bite. You don’t want them ingesting commercial cleaners, but this is much safe for them.
Can you Use Other Citrus Fruits?
Absolutely. Orange makes a great scent for cleaning, but lemon peels and lime peels work too. In fact, you can mix them all together for your infusion.
Any kind of citrus peels will work.
Can you Add Essential Oils?
Yes, just a drop or two for scent. You can add a few drops of tea tree oil to boost the cleaning power.
Use and Store Your Orange Peel Vinegar Cleaner Safely
Just because it’s natural doesn’t mean you want to breathe the fumes from the vinegar or use it on surfaces it could harm. Follow these steps to stay safe.
- Avoid using on natural stone surfaces: The acidity in vinegar can damage certain types of natural stone countertops or flooring. Always test in an inconspicuous area before use.
- Ventilate the area: Open windows or turn on fans when using vinegar-based cleaners to prevent strong odors from lingering.
- Store properly: Store your homemade cleaners in airtight containers away from direct sunlight to maintain their efficacy.
- Label your bottles: Clearly label your homemade cleaners with their ingredients and instructions for safe and easy identification.