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For deep cleaning, try soaking your sponge in a solution of warm water and lemon juice. Add a tablespoon of lemon juice to a cup of water and let the sponge soak for 10-15 minutes. This helps disinfect and freshen up the sponge, ensuring it’s ready for more dishwashing duties.
Additional Benefits of Lemon for the Kitchen
While lemon in the dishwashing sponge is a clever trick, it’s not the only way to use this citrus fruit in your kitchen. Here are a few more reasons to keep lemons handy in your home:
- Deodorize Your Kitchen
Cut a lemon in half and leave it in your fridge to absorb unpleasant odors. The fresh, zesty aroma will naturally combat any musty smells in your refrigerator. - Clean Cutting Boards and Surfaces
The acidity of lemon is perfect for cleaning cutting boards and kitchen surfaces, especially if they’re stained with food like garlic or onions. Simply rub a lemon half over the area and let it sit for a few minutes before wiping it clean. - Freshen the Microwave
Place a bowl of water with lemon slices in the microwave and heat it for a few minutes. The steam will help loosen any food splatters, and the lemon will leave your microwave smelling fresh. - Clean Your Coffee Maker
Add lemon juice and water to your coffee maker and run a cycle to clean and deodorize it. The acidity of the lemon helps break down mineral deposits and keeps your coffee tasting fresh.
Conclusion
Lemon may seem like an unlikely dishwashing aid, but its natural cleaning properties make it a smart, eco-friendly choice for any household. By adding lemon to your dish sponge, you’re not only boosting its cleaning power but also maintaining a fresh and bacteria-free sponge that makes washing dishes a little bit more enjoyable. Whether it’s cutting through grease, eliminating odors, or fighting stains, lemon proves that sometimes the simplest ingredients can make the biggest difference. So, next time you’re doing dishes, don’t forget to reach for a lemon—it’s a small step that leads to big results in both cleanliness and freshness!