It’s rare when I have to throw food out, but I still cringe anytime I do, so I’m always looking for new ways to use food scraps for another recipe or project. After making my Blueberry Basil Lemonade, I was left with a ridiculous amount of lemon rinds and knew I could put them to a better use than just the compost bin. With how much I cook, my kitchen seems to be forever dirty so I thought making a natural cleaner would be the best option to use up those lemon rinds!
A simple mix of lemon, thyme, and vinegar makes this cleaner safe to use around food and dishes, not to mention more affordable than the store-bought natural cleaners. I was a bit worried that it would leave a lingering vinegar smell (and my husband LOATHES vinegar), but the citrus actually helps balance out the intense vinegar smell, leaving you with a fresh summery scent!
…..
Ingredients:
Lemon rinds (from approximately 4 juiced lemons), cut into pieces small enough to fit in the jar
4-6 sprigs of fresh thyme
2 cups distilled white vinegar (or enough to cover lemon rinds)
Place lemon rinds and thyme into a large mason jar or another sealing container. Pour vinegar in and seal the jar. Place in a cool dark place for 10 days, shaking occasionally.
When the 10 days are up, strain mix into another jar (I like to use a measuring cup to make it easier to pour into the spray bottle) and discard solids.
When ready to use, mix equal parts cleaner and water in a spray bottle and shake to mix. Use on counters, stove tops, tables, etc..
Happy cleaning!
Tammy Banks says
Thank you for sharing! Lemon is my favorite citrus but I think this recipe can be prepare with whichever fruit you have in your fridge. I like that recipe because it is easy affordable and easy! Happy gleaning to you, too!