Bring The Shine Back To Your Glassware With This Kitchen Ingredient

With so many chemical-filled cleaners in the stores, and possibly on our own shelves, there is always something refreshing about using natural agents to clean and brighten up our household items. This is especially important when it comes to washing dishes and utensils that we eat from as well as glassware we drink from and want to keep streak-free and clear. Luckily, there is a simple and natural way to bring shine back to your glassware and dishes with one ingredient that might already be in your kitchen. Making a homemade cleaner from orange peels can easily brighten up and shine your glass kitchen items.

When it comes to cleaning glass, basic store-bought glass cleaners work just fine on surfaces and windows. However, you want to avoid using them on glassware that you eat and drink from to avoid any possible ingestion of lingering chemicals. The best part is that the orange peels you need will be thrown out anyway, so you're not purchasing anything additional.

The trick's cleaning ability lies in the fact that orange peels are packed with natural citric acid. Cleaning with citric acid helps eliminate residue from hard water or mineral deposits — as well as leftover soap scum. Citrus acid breaks down grease and grime left behind by food and drink. As a gentle abrasive, it can help disrupt stuck-on particles and remove streaks. Citric acid's mild acidity helps dissolve these mineral deposits, restoring clarity.

Another benefit is that orange peels contain d-limonene, an essential natural oil found in citrus peels. Besides being known for repelling insects from its natural scent, it is also thought to have some antibacterial properties, which may help eliminate some surface bacteria on glassware. As a result, citrus oil is specifically used in a multitude of store-bought household cleaners, as well as laundry detergents, soaps, and shampoos. However, you can very easily make your own orange peel solution right at home.

Making a DIY solution using orange peels to clean your glassware is a straightforward and simple method. To get started, fill up your sink or a basin with warm water. Then, add several peels and leave the solution for about 15 minutes. Next, add your stemware or glass dishes to the water peel mix and let it soak for 15 to 20 minutes. Then, remove the glassware from the water and gently scrub them with a clean cloth to remove any remaining residue. Rinse thoroughly with clean water. Dry your glassware with a microfiber cloth to make a shiny finish.

Another option is to add water and peels to mason jars to create a spray solution that can be used on your glassware, windows, and glass surfaces — even giving your stainless steel appliances a shiny finish. To pack an extra punch, add some vinegar. You can also rub a plain orange peel along the inside of mugs to help remove coffee stains. Not only will your glasses and dishes be streak-free and sparkling clean, but the natural citrus scent of the peels will leave behind a refreshing aroma that will freshen up your kitchen.