The sun is finally shining again here in the UK, meaning many us will be digging out our summer clothes for another year. White is a popular colour for the warmer weather as it reflects the light, so you’ve probably got a good few white tops, dresses or blouses in your collection.
However, the one downside to white clothing is that it doesn’t tend to stay white for very long. Stains can be a nightmare to remove, and regular washing can turn them a drab, grey colour. Thankfully, there’s one natural 28p item that can help restore your whites to their former glory – and it’s not baking soda.
There’s no need to reach for harsh chemicals and bleach in a desperate last attempt to bring your whites back to life, or throw them out entirely and buy new items.
According to stain removal expert Nigel Bearman from Daily Poppins, there’s a far simpler solution, and it will only set you back 28p
“Lemon juice is a natural cleaner with antibacterial properties, which means it effectively cuts through stains and kills any bacteria”, he said. “Not only does it effectively clean your clothes, it will also leave them feeling soft, smelling amazing.”
How to clean whites with lemons
Using lemon juice on your clothes isn’t just a trendy social media hack – its actually a proven method for effectively cleaning your clothes. Thanks to its citric acid content, it acts as a natural bleach and stain remover. Not only is it incredibly affordable compared to regular cleaning products, but its also eco-friendly, making it a great choice for both your clothes and the planet.
If you have a really tough stain, try sprinkling a bit of salt onto the area with the lemon juice and gently rub it in. It acts as a natural scrub and will get difficult stains out in no time.
Dry the washing outside in the sun for even more brightening and freshness, and the UV rays will act as a natural bleach.
However it’s not just laundry that can benefit from the cleaning power of lemons. Nigel said: “Try mixing it with water to create an all-purpose cleaner. Its acidity helps to break down grease and grime without the harsh chemicals. Mix equal parts lemon juice and water in a spray bottle and use it on any surface in your home to give it a deep clean.”