The Lemon

Using lemons to clean your home is an easy and safe method of reducing the use of toxic chemicals. They have antibacterial and antiseptic properties and of course there is that wonderful fresh, clean smell.

- Rub lemon onto chrome taps and rinse for a gleaming shine.

- Scrub grout with lemon juice and an old toothbrush.

- To clean the microwave, mix a couple of tablespoons of lemon juice in three quarters of a cup of water and heat in the microwave to boiling. Leave inside without opening the door for 10 mins then simply wipe and dry.

- Soak plastic food containers in diluted lemon juice to remove stains and odours. Wash as normal.

- Half a lemon in your refrigerator will keep it smelling fresh and will last for a week.

- For windows and mirrors add a couple of tablespoons of lemon juice to water in your spray bottle. Buff with an old newspaper afterwards.

- Keep those nasty insects out! Spray lemon juice in windowsills and door thresholds, also add to your floor wash for even more protection.

- A few drops of lemon juice added to simmering rice prevents it from sticking to the pan, making the pan easier to clean afterwards.

- Rub lemon juice onto your chopping board to get rid of stains and bacteria.

- Combine one part lemon juice to two parts olive oil for a natural furniture polish.

- A few drops of lemon juice in your wash can help your clothes smell fresher.

- To get more juice from lemons, cut in half and heat on high in your microwave for 40 seconds before squeezing.

- Have a go, you will be surprised at the results and you can get yourself a little treat with the money you save.