Looking to switch to all natural cleaning products? Don’t want to spend a small fortune? Look no further, this orange peel vinegar cleaning spray is exactly what you need. Since becoming a mom I started becoming more aware of the things I’m bringing and using in my home. It first started with the things I was feeding my family, but the rabbit hole ultimately led me to switching out everything we were using. I started buying cleaners without the harsh chemicals. But there was one thing I started running in to when moving from country to country, not everywhere had a natural cleaner in stores. That’s when I started my research on making my own homemade cleaner. I needed something I could make with simple ingredients, in a natural way, without the extra cost. And that’s when I found this vinegar cleaning spray.

Whether you are already in this more natural way of life, or searching for other options, you’re going to love this orange vinegar cleaner. And the good thing is, this is such a super easy diy, and a great addition to your natural living. It’s honestly become my favorite way to clean my house. The orange scent of this cleaning vinegar is what I love the most. It boosts your mood immediately, and to me, that is such a great way to take on any household task.

What You’ll Need

Orange Peels
White Vinegar
Glass Jar
Fine Mesh Strainer
Funnel
Spray Bottle

How do you make orange peel vinegar?

So the best way to make this orange peel vinegar cleaning spray – is to first make some orange juice (or slice them up into orange slices and eat)! Anything that will result in leftover orange peels will get the job done. Next, you’re going to use a glass jar or glass container (whatever you have on hand – doesn’t need to be fancy). You’re going to fill the glass jar up with all of your leftover orange peels. Then, you will grab some white vinegar, and pour vinegar over the orange peels until they are covered entirely. You will need close the glass jar up, give it a little shake, and store in a dark place. I always just throw mine in the pantry.

How long does it take to infuse?

Now you will wait for a couple of weeks. Give the orange peels and the vinegar time to infuse. I will occasionally shake the jar when I think of it, just to help with the infusion process. This process will take max 3 weeks, after the 3 weeks the infusion process is complete and the orange peel cleaner will be ready to use. The smell of vinegar really shouldn’t linger anymore, and you should really only have that great orange scent I talked about earlier!

The orange peel vinegar is ready, now what?

Now that your vinegar cleaning spray is ready, you will need a fine mesh strainer to strain off the vinegar from the leftover orange peels. You can store the infused vinegar in a mason jar, but really any glass jar will work. Whenever, I’m ready to use the orange peel vinegar, grab a plastic or glass spray bottle of your choice, and a funnel. Now you will pour in equal parts of orange vinegar and part water. This is really one of the easiest ways to make a citrus-infused vinegar, just like that you now have an all purpose cleaner.

If you would like to give your orange peel vinegar some extra cleaning power, feel free to drop some essential oils in your orange vinegar. Orange oil will give it an even stronger orange scent to your vinegar spray.

Safe to use on:

Stainless steel appliances: It removes fingerprints and light grease. (some appliance manuals, will say to not use vinegar, so check that before using)
Glass and windows: The vinegar cuts through grime and leaves a streak-free shine.
Laminate and ceramic countertops: It disinfects and cuts through light grease.
Plastic surfaces: Like cutting boards and children’s toys.
Floors: Diluted orange vinegar can be used for cleaning linoleum, vinyl, and sealed tile floors. (I will spray directly on the floor and mop in up after)

Ways you can use your orange peel vinegar cleaning spray:

All-purpose cleaner: Dilute with water and use on countertops, sinks, appliances, and floors.
Degreaser: For light grease on stovetops and ovens (avoid cast iron).
Bathroom cleaner: Cuts through soap scum and grime on showers, tubs, and toilets (avoid natural stone surfaces).
Garbage can disinfectant: Spray diluted vinegar to freshen and disinfect your trash can.

Not Recommended For:

Granite, marble, and natural stone: The acidity of vinegar can dull the finish.
Unsealed wood: Vinegar can damage unsealed surfaces.
Cast iron cookware: Vinegar can react with the seasoning on cast iron.

Tips for your convenience:

You can experiment with different citrus fruit(s) like lemons, limes, or grapefruits for a variety of scents.
For a decorative touch, add a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme to the jar while infusing.
Label your jar with the date (either the date it will be finished, or the date you made it).
Store your finished vinegar in a cool, dark place for up to several months – general rule is that if it looks good and smells good, then it’s still good to use.

Conclusion:

Now that you know how to make your own orange peel vinegar cleaning spray, it’s time to get to work and make it happen. It’s so rewarding when you can take care of your family in different ways. Plus, there is that no waste aspect of using up those leftover orange peels that also feels good! Let me know how you like your new cleaner, and try sharing with a friend. You never know how sharing a simple thing like a DIY cleaning spray can spark a pivotal moment in someone else’s life.