Bathrooms can get dirty and smelly in record time, so it’s no wonder many households tend to put off the cleaning task until it can wait no longer. Scrubbing soap scum that builds up the bath and shower is possibly one of the most frustrating chores as it requires using some serious elbow grease.
For those households looking to ditch abrasive chemicals in their cleaning routines, there is a solution to this common issue that involves using just one simple fruit. At just 55p a piece from Sainsbury’s and Tesco, grapefruit is fast becoming the unlikely cleaning agent of choice for many eco-conscious households. Nigel Bearman, cleaning expert at Daily Poppins, recommends using this fragrant citrus to helps “quickly break down soap scum and grime found in baths and showers”.
He explained: “It acts as a natural cleaning agent and dissolves through tough stains while eliminating germs and bacteria.”
To make the most of this natural powerhouse, simply slice the grapefruit in half and coat the flesh with a generous sprinkle of coarse salt—sea salt or Epsom salt both work well.
Then, using one half like a scrubber, gently rub it over the surface of your bath or shower until it’s all been covered in the juice.
Let it sit for a few minutes if you’re dealing with stubborn marks, and then rinse with warm water.
The expert shared: “The salt works as an abrasive to help scrub the grime away while you use it, while the grapefruit uses its natural acids and antibacterial properties to break down the buildup and leave your bathroom sparkling clean.
“It’s a simple, eco-friendly solution that gives you a fresh, citrus-scented finish.”
Not only does grapefruit leave tubs gleaming, it’s surprisingly versatile and can be used for other cleaning tasks, returning your bathroom to its former sparkling glory.
The same method can be used to clean taps, tiles, and even toilets—without a single harsh chemical in sight.
You can even create your own citrus-scented cleaning spray by combining grapefruit juice, a spoonful or two of vinegar, and warm water in a spray bottle.
And instead of throwing away any leftover peel, you can pop it into boiling water to infuse the air with a natural, zesty fragrance, or drop it in your bathroom bin to keep odours at bay.