Are you looking for a powerful, inexpensive all-purpose cleaner? This Homemade Citrus Vinegar Cleaning Spray is an effective, natural cleaner made from using the skins of citrus fruits and vinegar.

Citrus Cleaning Spray

This cleaning concentrate and spray recipe is not only incredibly easy to make, it is a great way to repurpose citrus scraps.

While on its own, white vinegar is an inexpensive though effective cleaner, many people don’t like the smell of it. By infusing the vinegar with citrus peels, you end up with a fresh, citrusy scent that has anti-fungal, antibacterial and deodorising properties.

Citrus peels contain a naturally occurring solvent which helps break down and remove oil. Add this to an excellent disinfectant such as white vinegar and you have a wonderful, natural cleaning product.

Making Citrus Vinegar Cleaning Concentrate

To make this spray, you will need:

Filtered or distilled water
4 cups white vinegar
Citrus peels including orange, lemon, grapefruit, mandarin, lime
Glass Jar
Spray Bottle

Cut up the citrus peels into small pieces.

Place the peels into a glass jar.

Pour the vinegar into the jar, completely covering all the peels.

Add the lid to the jar and keep in a dark, cool place such as under the sink for up to around 3 weeks. Shake every few days, when you remember.

Then, strain the peels out of the vinegar. Store this cleaning concentrate in a clean jar until ready to use.

Making Citrus Cleaning Spray

To make the spray, add the citrus infused vinegar until the spray bottle is half full.

Then fill the rest of the bottle with water.

Add the lid and shake.

Use as you would an all-purpose cleaner. Check out the notes below on what it can’t be used on!

This citrus cleaning spray can be used on kitchen counters, sinks, showers, toilets, bathtubs, tiles, stainless steel appliances, as a fridge cleaner.

It can also be used to remove unwanted odours, to clean cutting boards.

More Cleaning Resources

Vinegar Cleaner Notes

Before using this cleaning spray, do your research on vinegar and citrus peels. They are both very acidic. This means that some sensitive surfaces may react to this product when it is used on them. This includes granite, natural stone and marble. There is also some concern about hardwood floors, wood furniture and electronic screens as well. Do your research and only use this cleaner where you are comfortable. When in doubt, do your research and test on a small area first.
If you use essential oils, you could add around 15 drops to the spray bottle for a more powerful cleaner. Essential oils such as peppermint, lemon, orange, tea tree, rosemary and lavender could be used. Be sure to do your research before using any essential oils, especially if you have young children or pets.
For a lovely twist, add some cinnamon or cloves to the vinegar mixture.
You don’t need a huge amount of peels. A handful or so of peels will still do an amazing job.
If you find that it takes some time to collect enough citrus peels to use. Add the ones that you have to a jar and cover with white vinegar. When you have a good amount, then put this away to infuse.

Citrus Vinegar Cleaner Uses

This cleaner can also be used as a:

Garbage Disposal Cleaner – Use a small amount of the concentrate, the leftover orange and lemon peels, and some water. Mix them together and use immediately in your garbage disposal, or freeze them in an ice cube tray to use later!
Rinse Aid – Use the concentrate in your dishwasher as a powerful rinse aid! It can also be used as a dishwasher cleaner. Place around a cup of citrus vinegar in the dishwasher and run it empty.
Fabric Softener – Add about ½ – 1 cup to the wash. Some prefer to add it during the rinse cycle. Only use for white clothing, as it may lighten coloured clothing. Great for a bleach alternative!
Washing Machine Cleaner – Place a cup of the concentrate in your machine and turn your water to hot. Let the washing machine fill up with water and then pause. Let it sit for a few hours and then drain.
Glass Cleaner – Same as the all-purpose cleaner, with a 1-to-1 ratio. Use a microfibre towel when wiping clean to help with streaking.
Bathroom Cleaner – Use the concentrate on your shower and bathtub. Let it sit for a while, and then rinse off and scrub clean! Though again be careful of the materials used in the surfaces of your bathroom.