Lemon Love: Easy Kitchen Hacks for a Sparkling Clean

Let's face it: cleaning kitchen appliances can be a drag. But with a bit of help from lemon juice, it doesn't have to be! This natural cleaner is a powerhouse against grime and odors, and it leaves everything smelling fresh.

At Plaza Electronics & Appliances, we know the importance of using natural cleaners for appliances (it’s the best way to make them last longer!). And our experts have the scoop on how to use the lemon power of clean!

Why Lemon Juice is Your Kitchen's Best Friend

Lemon juice isn't just for adding a zesty flavor to your dishes; it's also a powerhouse for cleaning your kitchen. Here are some compelling reasons to make lemon juice your go-to cleaning agent:

• Natural and Non-Toxic Properties: Lemon juice is natural and contains no harsh chemicals. It's safe to use around food, making it perfect for cleaning appliances where you store and cook your meals.
• Pleasant, Fresh Scent: Lemons leave behind a fresh, clean scent that can help eliminate any bad odors in your kitchen. This is especially useful for your fridge, where food smells can build up over time.
• Effective Against Grease, Stains, and Odors: Lemon juice's acidity makes it good at breaking down grease and grime. It can tackle tough stains and leave surfaces looking shiny and clean. Plus, it has antibacterial properties, so it helps keep your kitchen more hygienic.

Keeping Your Fridge Fresh

The first appliance that benefits from lemon love is the refrigerator! As a natural cleaner, lemon juice helps prevent the buildup of food stains and odors, which keeps your fridge fresh and clean!

1. Empty the Fridge: Start by taking out all the food items for clear access to all the surfaces and prevent spills or crumbs from getting in the way.
2. Make the Solution: Mix about half a cup of lemon juice with a cup of water.
3. Wipe Down Surfaces: Dip a cloth or sponge into the lemon solution and wipe down all your fridge's shelves, drawers, and walls.
4. Tackle Tough Spots: Apply a little undiluted lemon juice directly to the area for stubborn stains or sticky spots. Let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub gently with a cloth or sponge.
5. Deodorize: Place a few lemon slices or a small bowl of lemon juice inside to help absorb any lingering odors.

Pro Tip: For extra deodorizing power, add a little baking soda! Just sprinkle some baking soda on your damp lemon sponge before scrubbing.

Sparkling Microwaves Made Easy

Does your microwave need a deep clean? Don’t worry; it happens to the best of us. Wiping it down after each use can be cumbersome, but luckily with lemon juice you can get that sparkly clean you need!

1. Prepare the Solution: Fill a microwave-safe bowl with about half a cup of water and add the juice of one lemon. (Pro Tip: Tossing in the squeezed lemon halves will give you extra cleaning power!)
2. Heat the Solution: Place the bowl in the microwave and heat it on high for about 3 to 5 minutes, or until the solution boils and the window steams up.
3. Let it Sit: After heating, leave the bowl in the microwave for a few minutes to allow the steam to work its magic on the stains and grime inside.
4. Wipe Clean: Carefully remove the bowl (it might be hot!) and use a cloth or sponge to wipe down the interior surfaces.

Say Goodbye to Oven Grime

You're probably guilty of putting off cleaning your oven because it can seem daunting and time-consuming. But with the power of lemon juice, you can make your oven sparkle again without using harsh chemicals (and without too much effort)!

1. Prepare the Solution: Start by squeezing the juice of 2-3 lemons into a bowl. Gradually add about 1/2 cup of baking soda, stirring as you go. The mixture should form a thick, spreadable paste. If the paste is too thick, add a little more lemon juice; if it’s too runny, add a bit more baking soda until you reach the desired consistency.
2. Apply the Paste: Spread the paste on the grimy areas inside your oven. Make sure to cover all the spots with stubborn grease and baked-on food.
3. Let it Sit: Allow the paste to sit for at least 30 minutes to give the lemon juice and baking soda time to break down the grime.
4. Scrub and Wipe: Use a sponge or brush to scrub the paste off the oven surfaces. Then, clean the surfaces with a damp cloth to remove any residue.

Pro Tip: Add some salt to your paste to boost the scrubbing power. The salt adds an abrasive element that helps remove stubborn grime more quickly!

A Zesty Twist on Cleaning

As you can see, lemon juice is your secret weapon when it comes to cleaning your appliances. It’s simple, natural, and smells fantastic! But sometimes, no amount of elbow grease (or lemon juice!) can save an old, worn-out and stained appliance. So, if you’re tired of your dingy appliances, visit us at Plaza Electronics & Appliances and shop our refrigeration & cooking appliances — sometimes it’s easier to start fresh!