7 Surprising Uses for Lemons Besides Cooking

Lemons are versatile citrus fruits that can be used for a variety of household hacks, beauty rituals, and more.

7 Surprising Uses for Lemons Besides Cooking
7 Surprising Uses for Lemons Besides Cooking

Lemons, with their vibrant yellow hue and invigorating aroma, are more than just kitchen staples.

They can be useful in various unexpected situations and contexts, ranging from practical household advice to wellness practices.

Lemons have many non-food uses, including cleaning, freshening, and medicinal purposes. For example, lemon juice can be used to clean and disinfect surfaces, freshen up the refrigerator, and relieve digestive issues.

Lemons are a popular eco-friendly cleaning solution that can be used in various ways, including revitalizing kitchen faucets and maintaining a clean bathroom.

Harnessing the natural acidity of lemons unlocks their potent cleaning capabilities.

When mixed with water, citric acid becomes a potent DIY solution with antibacterial properties.

This homemade concoction proves effective against stains, grease and lingering odors.

To keep your coffee machine clean, pour 1-2 cups of ice, a pinch of salt, and a lemon slice into the empty pot. Mix everything together until the water melts. Repeat this process daily.

A bowl of lemons
Lemons, typically associated with cooking, have some surprising uses beyond cooking and food preparation.  (iStock)

Harness the refreshing scent of lemons to elevate your living spaces.

According to Matha Stewart's website, simmering a half dozen lemon slices and a handful of cloves in a pan of water can help mask unwanted odors in your home until you determine the source. The mixture will leave the air smelling lemony fresh.

Lemons serve as a natural deterrent against common garden pests.

To safeguard plants from pests like ants and aphids, mix lemon juice with water to create a citrus-based spray that promotes a healthy garden.

Lemons being cut
The acidity in lemon juice makes it great for removing stains and grime, and when mixed with salt or baking soda, it becomes an eco-friendly cleaning solution. (iStock)

Incorporate lemons into your beauty regimen for their skin care benefits.

According to healthline.com, citric acid functions as a mild exfoliant that encourages skin regeneration. To achieve a brighter complexion, minimize imperfections, eradicate bacteria, and combat acne, mix lemon juice and honey to create a face mask.

In your shower, you can restore shine and manageability to your hair with a lemon-infused rinse.

After shampooing, mix lemon juice with water and use it as a final rinse.

Your hair's natural shine is improved and buildup is eliminated by the acidity.

woman juicing lemons
By diluting lemon juice with water, you can create a refreshing facial toner that may enhance skin texture.  (iStock)

Lemon juice can also be used to lighten your hair.

According to hwtclinic.com, you can blend fresh lemon juice with water and rinse your hair or create a mixture by combining a few drops of lemon essential oil with a carrier oil and water, then apply it to your hair.

Prevent rust on metal surfaces by using a mixture of lemon juice and salt.

According to finewoodworking.com, the acidity of lemon juice helps to loosen rust from metal underneath, while the salt acts as a gentle abrasive that won't scratch the steel.

This simple trick proves handy for tools, garden equipment and household items.

Wood surfaces can be cleaned and nourished with your lemon mixture, resulting in a natural sheen and a pleasant aroma.

To clean your cloth or furniture, mix equal parts lemon juice and white vinegar, then pour the solution into a spray bottle or dab it onto a cloth and rub it onto your furniture as needed, according to Murphyoilsoap.com.

Make the most of this citrus gem in various aspects of daily life by embracing these creative applications.

For more Lifestyle articles, visit planetchronicle.net/lifestyle.

by Maeghan Dolph

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