Using citric acid as a natural alternative for household cleaning
What is citric acid?
It is an organic acid with a low pH, yet acidic enough to descale persistent alkaline substances. When used, it penetrates and dissolves minerals, fats, and other substances, rendering them soluble in water.
Citric acid is very effective in removing rust and limescale stains and is an excellent polisher for stainless steel, ceramics, glass, etc., without scratching the surfaces.
It has a dual function as it is a degreaser and also a disinfectant, and it is also a non-toxic and ecological alternative as it is biodegradable.
Here we will give you several examples of how and where to use them.
Cleaning dishwasher residue
As we've already told you on several occasions, citric acid is a very versatile product that has multiple uses for cleaning and disinfecting our homes.
To remove dirt and residue that has built up in your dishwasher (and if you live in an area where hard water prevents detergents from dissolving properly and builds up residue) that can become a breeding ground for bacteria and unpleasant odors, add two teaspoons of citric acid and one teaspoon of baking soda and run a hot water cycle.
Unclog dirt from the washing machine
Another very common problem, especially in areas with hard or very hard water, is that the washing machine has dirt stuck to it and we don't know how to fix it ourselves. Here's a quick and easy trick to help you solve it.
Add two teaspoons of citric acid and one teaspoon of baking soda to an empty hot water cycle once a month. This should be enough to keep your washing machine's clogs at bay.
How to use fabric softener
Mix 10g of citric acid with 100ml of warm water and pour the mixture into the fabric softener compartment.
Eco-friendly carpet cleaner
Mix 90g of citric acid with one liter of warm water, pour it into a spray bottle , spray it on the carpet and scrub with a coarse-bristled brush or vacuum.
How to remove limescale from taps/sinks?
To clean them, simply mix two tablespoons of citric acid in half a liter of warm water and mix it well. Transfer to a spray bottle and spray on faucets, sinks, and other surfaces. Leave it for 30 seconds before wiping with a cloth .
Another natural and sustainable way to remove limescale from faucets and shower heads is to use lemons and rub their juice on them to leave them shiny and bright.
You can also unscrew the faucet and soak it in cleaning vinegar , then rinse it well to remove limescale.
For coffee machines with limescale
Fill the coffee maker with water to the end of the stains, add 1 or 2 teaspoons of citric acid , and boil. Then, rinse and check. If any stains remain, repeat the process.
It is important to rinse thoroughly with water afterwards.
How to clean hard water stains from the toilet?
To remove these unsightly stains, we use the same mixture we use on faucets. We spray it on the toilet bowl every time we clean it to keep those stains at bay.
Disinfection of household surfaces
Citric acid is a powerful antimicrobial, making it very useful for cleaning kitchen countertops, tables, or other surfaces where we prepare food or eat.
We'll mix a few tablespoons with warm water and spray the surfaces, then wipe with a cloth to remove any remaining residue.
Polishing of stainless steel equipment and surfaces
Just spray a little citric acid cleaner on it and wipe it with a cloth to leave it shiny.
Deep cleaning of oven racks
Soak the oven rack in hot water and citric acid for 1 hour, then scrub with a esparto or copper scouring pad.
Water heater water softener
Add 275g of citric acid to the cold water inlet, let it sink to the bottom and dissolve, then heat the water and let the acid work its magic for 6-8 hours, then empty the tank completely.
Clean the bottom of pots and pans
Pour water into the base of the pot/pan along with two tablespoons of citric acid , heat until it boils and… the dirt will come off.
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Spray Mixing Instructions:
Mix one part citric acid with two parts warm water (preferably distilled) in a non-metallic container and stir with a wooden spoon to avoid any reaction with the metal, then pour into spray bottles.
Lavender or tea tree essential oil can be added for additional antibacterial properties.
And if there is also a stubborn stain, you can add baking soda .
Precautions before use:
Keep it in a dry place, away from heat and humidity
Always mix with warm water so that it dissolves completely.
Keep out of reach of children and pets
Read the instructions before
Avoid contact with eyes as it causes eye irritation.
Do not ingest
Do not mix acid with lye
Do not mix with sodium percarbonate or carbonate
We are not responsible for misuse or unwanted effects (we advise you to test first on a small, hidden area)
