Citric and Acetic acid --- here are 8 miracles that can be done with these substances when used in domestic cleaning

We know well that citric acid is present in lemons (and not only), but when it comes to cleaning the house obtaining citric acid from citrus fruits can be expensive in terms of both time and money.

Therefore, it is much better to buy it in the form of white powder in supermarkets, stores or online.

It is a natural ingredient, much less aggressive than similar chemical substances, but equally effective. Here are some commons situations where citric acid and also acetic acid can be very useful when doing household chores.

 Eliminate sweat stains

Yellow sweat stains on white clothing are almost inevitable. They also appear on the clothes of people who do not sweat excessively, because the stains are caused by the reaction of sweat (even in small quantities) with the aluminum salts contained in most underarm deodorants. 

To eliminate these stains, citric acid is very effective. Just dissolve less than an ounce (10 g) in a basin of water (this quantity is indicated for a pair of shirts or a shirt. If the clothes to be bleached are heavier, then increase the dose), and immerse your clothes in the basin. Leave them to soak overnight, then wash them in the washing machine as you usually do. This technique is ideal for removing even the most stubborn dirty collar stains.

Attention: In the case of darker clothes, test the citric acid first on a hidden piece of fabric, to check for any reactions.

Eliminate limescale stains

Faucets, knobs, shower heads and tea kettles --- citric acid eliminates limescale stains everywhere. In the case of faucets, it is advisable to wet some cloth or paper with citric acid dissolved in water (read the instructions for use on the package) and let it act until the stains disappear completely. Finish drying the surfaces with a microfiber cloth. 

In the case of coffee machines, it is not advisable to use citric acid as it may form obstructions in the nozzles.

Universal disinfectant for the bathroom

Vinegar is an excellent degreaser and disinfectant for the bathroom, but the strong smell and the wear that it causes on the silicone parts do not make it the ideal product for cleaning. A very good alternative is citric acid. To create a bathroom cleaner, add 3 oz (80 g) of citric acid to 1/4 cup of dish soap (100 ml) and 2 cups of water (500 ml). Before each use shake slightly, spray the detergent on the bathroom objects to be cleaned and sanitized, let it act for a few seconds, rub with a sponge if necessary, then rinse. 

Warning: It is better not to use this product on concrete or marble parts, as well as other normal commercial products in which citric or acetic acid is often present.

Remove rust

Do you have any utensils covered with rust that you are about to away? Try first to solve your problem with acetic acid. This ingredient only dissolves the iron oxide (rust), without ruining the other material. The time necessary for the elimination of rust may vary depending on the material and the thickness of the layer of rust.

Polish stainless steel surfaces

Shiny surfaces are very impressive to see, but keeping them clean is really a nightmare! To remove grease, water stains, and dirt in general, dissolve some citric acid powder in a little water, to form a paste. Then spread the paste on the surfaces to be cleaned and polish with a dry cloth.

Clean the dishwasher

If your dishes do not come out of the dishwasher as brightly as they once did, it may be time for a deeper cleaning of the dishwasher appliance. Dissolve in a bowl of lukewarm water some citric acid and clean the inside, the shelves, and the gaskets. Finally, spread a little citric acid powder on the bottom of the dishwasher (it should be empty) and run a low-temperature cycle.

Cleansing gel for the toilet

To prepare a gel that in addition to removing the limescale, disinfects the toilet, and prevents the formation of dark spots, first boil 1/4 of a cup of water (100 ml). Let it cool slightly, dissolve 2 tablespoons of citric acid then add less than an ounce of dish soap (10 ml). Separately, stir 2 tablespoons of cornstarch in 2 cups of water (500 ml). Combine both parts and create your toilet gel. Fill an old empty container and use the gel as needed!

Effervescent tablets for the toilet

The dark spots that usually appear on the toilet are caused by the chemical reaction between urine and calcareous water. To eliminate these dark spots, you can create effervescent tablets made with citric acid. 

Mix one ounce of baking soda (30 g) with one ounce of citric acid (30 g) and add 1 tablespoon (15 g) of detergent. Put the mixture into an ice cube tray and let it dry for four hours. To disinfect, just throw one in the toilet bowl!