Citric acid is indeed a versatile and effective household cleaning agent that offers several benefits beyond its culinary uses. Here’s a breakdown of its various applications in cleaning:
1. **In the Washing Machine**: Citric acid can be used to clean and descale washing machines. Simply add about 120g of citric acid powder to the washing machine’s detergent compartment and run a regular cycle. This helps remove limescale buildup and keeps the machine clean and efficient.
2. **As a Laundry Aid**: Citric acid acts as a natural alternative to conventional fabric softeners and stain removers. For fabric softening, dissolve 2.5 tablespoons of citric acid in 100ml of warm water and add a few drops of essential oil for fragrance. This mixture can be added to the fabric softener compartment of your washing machine.
3. **For Stain Removal**: Due to its bleaching properties, citric acid is particularly effective for whitening white clothes. Add two tablespoons of citric acid powder directly to the washing machine along with your regular detergent to help keep whites bright and stain-free.
4. **General Household Cleaning**: Citric acid can be used to clean various household appliances such as dishwashers, electric kettles, and coffee machines. Its acidic nature helps dissolve limescale and mineral deposits, improving the efficiency and longevity of these appliances.
5. **Kitchen and Bathroom Cleaning**: It’s effective for cleaning sinks, toilets, and removing stubborn dirt and stains in both the kitchen and bathroom areas. Simply mix citric acid with warm water to create a cleaning solution that tackles grease, soap scum, and hard water deposits.
6. **Cleaning Utensils and Jewellery**: Citric acid can also be used to clean utensils, cups, cutlery, and even silver jewellery. Its mild abrasive and acidic properties help remove tarnish and restore shine without damaging delicate surfaces.
Overall, citric acid is a safe, natural, and economical alternative to traditional cleaning products, offering a wide range of applications for household cleaning and maintenance.