Vinegar is a great “old-fashioned cleaner used by our grandmothers which unfortunately has been “ditched” by many modern households in favour of more “sophisticated” commercial products. However, many of these products contain toxic chemicals which can have a range of negative affects on our health. Vinegar is cheap, non-toxic, bio-degradable and environmentally friendly. Research shows that it kills 82% of mold spores as well as many bacteria and viruses. One drawback is that the smell is not to everyone’s liking. Enter citrus peels! Orange power is becoming quite popular in many commercial eco-friendly products these days and with good reason. Orange oil contains a degreasing property which cuts through grease, oils and sticky substances so it is particularly useful in the kitchen environment. The following homemade recipe contains the combined cleaning power of vinegar and citrus and as a bonus creates a pleasant smelling product.
ORANGE / VINEGAR CLEANER
- Fill a glass jar (any size that suits) 3/4’s full of orange peels
- Cover with vinegar
- Place a lid on the bottle
- Store in a cool dark place
- Allow to steep for at least 2 weeks
- Strain and pour into spray bottle ready for use
- Spray on surface and wipe with a cloth