Lemons: they're not just for garnishing your drink or adding a zesty flavour to your meals. These citrus wonders are also your secret weapon for a naturally clean and fresh home. As we strive to reduce our environmental footprint and turn to more eco-friendly solutions, it's time to let the humble lemon take centre stage in our cleaning routines.

Deyan Dimitrov, a laundry expert at Laundryheap, shares his insider secrets on how to harness the power of lemons to tackle household chores. With their natural acidity, lemons are an effective, eco-friendly alternative to harsh chemical cleaners. So, let's explore how you can transform your home's cleanliness with just a lemon!

1. Brightening Laundry and Removing Stains
Lemons are a natural bleaching agent, making them perfect for brightening white fabrics and removing stains. Dimitrov suggests adding half a cup of lemon juice to your wash cycle to give your whites a new lease on life. For those pesky, stubborn stains, he recommends a pre-treatment solution of lemon juice and water in a 1:2 ratio. Soak the stained garment for about 10 minutes before washing it as usual. Grease stains, in particular, can be tackled by applying lemon juice directly to the stain, letting it dry, and then laundering as normal.


2. Descaling Appliances
Limescale build-up is a common issue in washing machines, dishwashers, and kettles, but lemons offer a simple solution. To describe your washing machine, Dimitrov advises using lemon halves with a dab of toothpaste and running a hot cycle. This method not only tackles watermarks but also eliminates odours. For your dishwasher, place lemon halves in the bottom drawer and run a regular cycle to dissolve limescale and soap scum. When it comes to your kettle, lemon peel is your best friend. Boil water with lemon peel to break down limescale deposits, and repeat as necessary for a spotless result.


3. Cleaning Your Microwave
Microwaves can quickly become grimy and smelly, but lemon juice is here to save the day. Dimitrov recommends microwaving a mixture of lemon juice and water to create steam that loosens stains and grease. After cooling, a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth will leave your microwave spotless and odour-free.

What Not to Clean with a Lemon
While lemons are incredibly versatile, they're not suitable for every surface. Avoid using lemon juice on porous materials like natural stone, as well as brass-plated items and unsealed wood, to prevent damage. Always test a small, inconspicuous area first if you're unsure how a surface will react to lemon juice.

By incorporating these lemon-based cleaning methods into your routine, you can maintain a sparkling, fresh home that is naturally and eco-friendly. Just remember to avoid surfaces that might be sensitive to acidity – when in doubt, do a spot test first.

Members, have you tried using lemons in your cleaning routine? We'd love to hear about your experiences and any additional tips you might have. Share your stories in the comments below, and let's inspire each other to keep our homes clean and green with the power of lemons!