I came across lemon as a natural home cleaner when our dog had puppies and I had to ditch the harsh chemicals in the home for a more puppy friendly alternative! I used lemon water as a great disinfectant for on my laminate floor. But then I discivered there were innumerable ways to use lemon as a cleaner in the home.Packed with citric acid, antibacterial properties, and a refreshing scent, lemons can tackle grease, grime, stains, and odors throughout your home. Best of all, they’re eco-friendly and chemical-free and smell amazing! In this post, we’ll explore 12 effective and creative ways to use lemons for home cleaning. From the kitchen to the bathroom and beyond, here’s how this humble fruit can help you keep your home sparkling clean.
1. All-Purpose Lemon Cleaner
A simple lemon-based cleaner can be your go-to for most surfaces.
How to make it:
- Mix equal parts lemon juice and water in a spray bottle.
- Optional: Add a tablespoon of baking soda for extra cleaning power.
Use for:
Wiping down countertops, tables, and other hard surfaces (but avoid marble or granite—more on that later).
2. Cutting Board Disinfectant
Cutting boards can harbor bacteria, especially after prepping meats or seafood. Lemons are great for sanitizing them naturally.
How to use:
- Sprinkle coarse salt or baking soda over the cutting board.
- Cut a lemon in half and use it to scrub the board.
- Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
This not only disinfects but also removes stains and odors.
3. Microwave Cleaner
Microwaves can get grimy quickly. Lemons make cleaning them fast and easy.
How to use:
- Fill a microwave-safe bowl with water.
- Squeeze in the juice of one lemon and toss in the rinds.
- Microwave on high for 3–5 minutes.
- Let it sit with the door closed for a few more minutes to loosen grime.
- Wipe clean with a cloth.
4. Garbage Disposal Freshener
Lemons help deodorize and clean garbage disposals naturally.
How to use:
- Cut a lemon into small chunks and run them through the disposal with cold water.
- You can also freeze lemon slices in vinegar in ice cube trays and drop one in occasionally for extra freshness.
5. Faucet and Showerhead Descaler
Hard water can leave mineral deposits on metal fixtures. The acidity in lemons helps dissolve them.
How to use:
- Rub a halved lemon directly on the fixtures.
- Let it sit for 10 minutes.
- Wipe clean with a damp cloth.
For stubborn buildup, wrap the fixture in a vinegar-soaked cloth first, then use lemon afterward for shine and scent.
6. Stain Remover for Plastic Containers
Tomato sauce stains in your Tupperware? Lemon can help lift discoloration.
How to use:
- Squeeze lemon juice into the stained container.
- Add a little baking soda and rub with a sponge.
- Let sit in the sun for an hour before rinsing.
The lemon acts as a natural bleaching agent, especially with the help of sunlight.
7. Window and Mirror Cleaner
Lemon juice helps leave glass surfaces streak-free.
How to use:
- Mix 2 tablespoons of lemon juice with 1 quart of water.
- Pour into a spray bottle and spritz on mirrors or windows.
- Wipe with a microfiber cloth or newspaper for a spotless shine.
8. Fridge Deodorizer
Fridges often harbor mysterious odors. Lemons offer a pleasant, safe alternative to chemical deodorizers.
How to use:
- Soak a cotton ball or sponge in lemon juice and leave it in the fridge for a few hours.
- Or, place lemon slices on a small plate to absorb odors naturally.
9. Laundry Brightener
Lemon juice can naturally whiten and brighten white fabrics, acting as a non-toxic bleach substitute.
How to use:
- Add 1/2 cup of lemon juice to the rinse cycle for a fresh, clean scent.
- For tough stains, apply lemon juice directly to the stain, sprinkle with salt, and let sit in the sun before washing.
10. Brass and Copper Polish
Restore the shine to your tarnished metal decor or cookware with lemon.
How to use:
- Sprinkle salt or baking soda on half a lemon.
- Rub directly onto the brass or copper surface.
- Let sit briefly, then rinse and buff with a dry cloth.
11. Tile Grout Cleaner
Grimy grout is no match for lemons and a little elbow grease.
How to use:
- Squeeze lemon juice directly onto grout lines.
- Let sit for 10–15 minutes.
- Scrub with an old toothbrush.
- Rinse well with water.
Add baking soda for tougher stains or mold.
12. Air Freshener Spray
Ditch artificial sprays filled with synthetic fragrances and opt for a natural, lemony air freshener.
How to make it:
- Combine 1/2 cup lemon juice, 1/2 cup water, and 1 tablespoon of vodka or rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle.
- Shake well and spray in the air, on fabrics, or around trash cans.
You can even add a few drops of essential oils (like lavender or eucalyptus) for added scent benefits.
Tips and Cautions When Cleaning with Lemon
While lemon is a versatile cleaner, keep these notes in mind:
- Avoid using lemon on natural stone surfaces like granite, marble, or limestone. Its acidity can etch and dull the surface.
- Do a spot test before using lemon on delicate fabrics or finishes.
- Rinse well after cleaning with lemon to prevent stickiness or residue.
- Store-bought lemon juice can work in a pinch, but fresh lemon juice is more potent and effective.
Lemons are one of nature’s most effective cleaning tools. They’re safe, inexpensive, biodegradable, and smell amazing. Whether you’re cutting through grease in the kitchen, removing odors in the fridge, or polishing metal fixtures, a lemon (or two) might be all you need.
So next time you grab a few lemons from the store, save a couple for cleaning day. Your home—and the environment—will thank you.
Want more natural cleaning tips? Leave a comment or share your favorite lemon hack below!
Featured Image by Hans from Pixabay
