Natural Heavy Duty Scrub

Looking for an effective and natural heavy duty scrub? My DIY scrub combines the cleaning power of Borax and lemon!

Discover the power of nature with my natural heavy duty scrub. It is a simple yet effective cleaning solution that combines just two ingredients: half a lemon and half a cup of Borax. How great is that!?

The acidity of the lemon works wonders in cutting through grease and grime. All the while its natural antibacterial properties help sanitize surfaces. When paired with Borax, a time-tested cleaner known for its excellent stain-removing and deodorizing capabilities, you get a potent scrub. My scrub can tackle the toughest household messes.

This natural blend not only ensures a sparkling clean but also leaves a fresh, citrusy scent, making it a delightful addition to your cleaning routine. This simple yet powerful scrub is perfect for tackling tough cleaning jobs without the use of harsh chemicals.

You are going to love it! Just like I do!

For more about my natural heavy duty scrub, check out my Instagram page!

❤️ Why You’ll Love My Natural Heavy Duty Scrub

You will love making my natural heavy duty scrub with Borax and lemon because it combines powerful cleaning effectiveness with simplicity and safety.

This combination creates a potent, eco-friendly cleaner that is free from harsh chemicals, ensuring a healthier home environment. Easy to prepare and highly effective, my scrub not only leaves your surfaces sparkling clean but also gives you the peace of mind that comes with using natural ingredients.

My eco-friendly natural heavy duty scrub scrub is not only effective but also safe, cost-efficient, and free from harsh chemicals, making it an ideal choice for maintaining a clean and fresh home naturally. And who doesn’t love a clean and fresh home? I certainly do!

🧽 Materials for My Natural Heavy Duty Scrub

For a super-duper scrub, pour the Borax on a cut 1/2 of a lemon and scrub straight with the cut lemon! That’s what you will see on my Instagram post above.

But, if you need more or something a little bit different than my heavy duty scrub, you can also create a paste to apply to surfaces. Just mix equal parts lemon juice (I prefer straight from a lemon, so it is as fresh as can be) and equal parts Borax powder.

Remember, you can find Borax (a laundry booster) on Amazon if it can’t be located at a local grocery store or big-box store. I prefer for it to be shipped straight to my house via Amazon (who doesn’t love convenience?).

🧼 Heave Duty Scrub: How to Do

HEADS UP: This natural heavy duty scrub is not for granite!

Why not use my heavy duty scrub on granite???

You should avoid putting a lemon and Borax mixture on granite because the acidity of the lemon can damage the surface of the granite.

Granite is a natural stone that is susceptible to etching and dulling when exposed to acidic substances. The acid in the lemon can break down the sealant that protects the granite, leading to potential staining and a reduction in the stone’s natural luster.

Additionally, Borax, being a mildly abrasive substance, can scratch the granite’s surface if not used carefully. To preserve the beauty and integrity of your granite countertops, it’s best to use pH-neutral cleaners specifically designed for natural stone.

Remember, with all cleaners, test in a small area first. We all have different stones and surfaces in our home–so be sure to check!

🪄 Tips and Tricks

My heavy duty scrub is an effective natural cleaning method. Here are some tips and tricks I recommend to maximize its efficiency:

1. Surface Selection: I use this method on non-porous surfaces such as sinks, bathtubs, tiles, and stovetops. Avoid using it on delicate surfaces like granite.
2. Test First: Before applying the lemon and Borax mixture to a larger area, I test it on a small, inconspicuous spot to ensure it doesn’t cause any damage or discoloration.
3. Scrubbing Technique: I gently scrub the surface using the lemon in a circular motion. The citric acid from the lemon combined with the abrasive nature of Borax will help lift stains and grime effectively.
4. Stain Focus: For tough stains, I allow the lemon juice and Borax mixture to sit on the surface for a few minutes before scrubbing. This helps to break down the stain more effectively.
5. Rinse Well: After scrubbing, I rinse the surface thoroughly with water to remove any residue from the lemon and Borax. I wipe it down with a clean, damp cloth to ensure no gritty residue remains.
6. Gloves: Consider wearing gloves to protect your skin from the acidity of the lemon and the drying effect of Borax. I highly recommend this if you love cleaning–like me!
7. Disposal: Dispose of the used lemon halves in your compost bin (if you have one), as they are biodegradable.
8. Regular Maintenance: Incorporate this natural scrubbing method into your regular cleaning routine to keep surfaces consistently clean and free from buildup.

🗒 Variations

An alternative to my natural heavy duty scrub harnesses the power of baking soda and Castile soap. Just combine equal parts Castile soap to the baking soda, then mix to create a paste.

This baking soda and Castile soap paste is another heavy hitter that helps with grease and grime!

🗒 Substitutions

I get asked about other citruses when there are no lemons on-hand. So–can you use a lime instead? Yes!! You can!

Both lemons and limes contain citric acid, which is effective for cutting through grease and grime. Limes have a slightly different citric acid content compared to lemons, but they are still effective for cleaning purposes.

The results should be similar in terms of their ability to break down dirt and stains. And the smell? Lime-fresh!

🫙 How to Store

Here is what I do when I need to store the Borax and lemon paste (if I have any leftover heavy duty scrub):

1. Choose an airtight container: I use glass jars with tight-fitting lids work well, as they are non-reactive and will not be affected by the acidic lemon juice.
2. Avoid Metal: I do not use metal containers, as the acid in the lemon juice can react with the metal over time.
3. Refrigeration: I store the container in the refrigerator. The cool temperature will help preserve the lemon juice and prevent the paste from drying out.
4. Labeling: I label the container with the date of preparation. Homemade mixtures like this generally have a shorter shelf life, so it’s helpful to know when it was made.
5. Short-Term Use: Ideally, I use the paste within one to two weeks. Over time, the potency of the lemon juice may decrease, and the mixture may become less effective.
6. Mix Before Use: Before using the stored paste, I give it a good stir. Some separation may occur, so mixing ensures you get the right consistency and distribution of ingredients.
7. Check for Spoilage: Before each use, I check the paste for any signs of spoilage, such as an off smell, discoloration, or mold. If any of these are present, discard the mixture and make a fresh batch.

Now, if you are looking for tips on storing cut lemons. I have those too!

• Wrap Tightly: I wrap the cut side of the lemon tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps prevent the lemon from drying out and protects it from absorbing odors from other foods in the refrigerator.
• Use a Sealed Container: I place the wrapped lemon in an airtight container. This provides an additional layer of protection and helps maintain the lemon’s moisture.
• Refrigerate Immediately: I store the cut lemon in the refrigerator as soon as possible. The cool temperature slows down the degradation process and keeps the lemon fresh.
• Use a Citrus Saver: If you frequently use cut lemons (like me!), consider investing in a citrus saver, a specialized container designed to keep cut lemons fresh.
• Store with Water: Another method to try is to place the cut lemon in a container with a small amount of water, cut side down. This can help keep the lemon moist and fresh.
• Avoid Heat and Light: I keep the lemon away from heat sources and direct sunlight, as these can accelerate the spoiling process.
• Use within a Few Days: Even with proper storage, it’s best to use cut lemons within 3-4 days for optimal freshness and flavor.
• Check for Freshness: Before using the stored cut lemon, check for any signs of spoilage, such as a slimy texture, off smell, or mold. Discard if any of these signs are present.

🤔 Common Questions