DIY

Daily Uses of Lemon

Lemon, rich in citric acid and vitamin C, is not just a kitchen staple but also a natural product with numerous household, culinary, and hygiene properties. Here’s how to make the most of it in your daily life.

1. At Home: Lemon as a Natural Ally

Thanks to its disinfectant, deodorizing, and degreasing properties, lemon is an eco-friendly alternative to chemical products:

– Natural deodorizer:
Place lemon slices in the refrigerator or use lemon juice to neutralize odors from the trash bin, dishwasher, or microwave.

– Powerful descaler:
Mix lemon juice with white vinegar to remove limescale from faucets, kettles, or shower walls.

– Multi-purpose cleaner:
Combine lemon and baking soda to effectively clean surfaces, safe for children and pets.

– Mold remover:
Apply pure lemon juice to tile joints or damp corners to eliminate mold traces.

– Insect repellent:
The scent of lemon acts as a natural repellent for flies and ants. Place lemon peels at entry points to the house.

2. In the Kitchen: A Versatile and Healthy Ingredient

Lemon is essential for its flavor, preservative properties, and health benefits:

– Natural preservative:
Lemon prevents the oxidation of fruits (apples, avocados) and preserves the freshness of salads or prepared dishes.

– Vinegar substitute:
Its acidity is ideal for dressings, marinades, or even enhancing soups.

– Meat tenderizer:
Lemon juice breaks down the fibers in meat, making it more tender, especially for marinades before cooking.

– Fruit and vegetable cleaner:
Mix water with lemon juice to remove pesticides and impurities from fruits and vegetables.

– Flavor enhancer:
A few drops of lemon elevate the flavors of fish, desserts, or even plain water for a refreshing and invigorating taste.

3. Clever Tips: Ingenious Uses of Lemon

For everyday small challenges, lemon is a simple and effective solution:

– Degreaser:
Combine lemon juice with soap to clean greasy pans, stovetops, or dishes.

– Textile stain remover:
Dab a rust or grease stain with lemon juice before washing for effective stain removal.

– Polisher for copper and stainless steel:
Cut a lemon in half, sprinkle it with salt or baking soda, and rub on tarnished surfaces to restore shine.

– Air freshener:
Boil lemon slices with cloves or cinnamon to diffuse a pleasant and natural scent in your home.

– Breath freshener:
Add a few drops of lemon to warm water and rinse your mouth to eliminate bad odors.