What To Know
- Let the mixture infuse for at least 24 hours, or up to a week for a stronger citrus scent.
- Use a funnel to pour the finished dish soap into a glass bottle or container.
- You can reuse an empty dish soap bottle or use a decorative container for a more stylish look.
Tired of harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances in your dish soap? Embrace the power of nature with our simple guide on how to make your own all-natural dish soap using orange peels. This DIY project not only reduces your environmental impact but also leaves your dishes sparkling clean with a refreshing citrus scent.
Benefits of Using Orange Peel in Dish Soap
- Natural degreaser: Orange peels contain d-limonene, a powerful solvent that effectively breaks down grease and grime.
- Antibacterial properties: The antimicrobial compounds in orange peels help eliminate bacteria and prevent the growth of mold.
- Fresh scent: The citrusy aroma of orange peels leaves your dishes smelling clean and invigorating.
- Biodegradable: Unlike synthetic dish soaps, orange peel dish soap is biodegradable and won’t harm the environment.
Materials You’ll Need
- Orange peels (fresh or dried)
- Castile soap (liquid or bar)
- Water
- Essential oil (optional, for added scent)
- Funnel
- Glass bottle or container
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Gather Orange Peels
Collect orange peels from fresh oranges or use dried orange peels. If using fresh peels, wash them thoroughly to remove any pesticides.
2. Infuse Castile Soap with Orange Peels
Place the orange peels in a large jar or container. Pour the castile soap over the peels and stir to combine. Let the mixture infuse for at least 24 hours, or up to a week for a stronger citrus scent.
3. Strain the Mixture
Line a sieve or colander with cheesecloth or a coffee filter. Pour the infused soap mixture through the strainer to remove the orange peels.
4. Dilute with Water
Add water to the strained soap mixture until it reaches your desired consistency. The thickness of the soap depends on your preference. For a thicker soap, use less water; for a thinner soap, add more water.
5. Add Essential Oil (Optional)
If desired, add a few drops of essential oil to the soap mixture for an extra boost of scent. Orange, lemon, or grapefruit essential oils pair well with the citrusy aroma of orange peels.
6. Pour into a Container
Use a funnel to pour the finished dish soap into a glass bottle or container. You can reuse an empty dish soap bottle or use a decorative container for a more stylish look.
7. Use and Enjoy
Shake the dish soap well before each use. Dish out a small amount onto a sponge or dishcloth and wash your dishes as usual.
Tips for Using Orange Peel Dish Soap
- Store in a cool, dark place: To extend the shelf life of your dish soap, store it in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight.
- Use within 2-3 months: Homemade dish soap without preservatives has a shorter shelf life than commercial soaps. Aim to use it within 2-3 months of making it.
- Avoid using on delicate surfaces: While orange peel dish soap is gentle on most surfaces, it’s best to avoid using it on delicate surfaces such as marble or granite.
Variations
- Add other citrus peels: Experiment with using peels from other citrus fruits, such as lemons, limes, or grapefruits, to create different scents and variations.
- Use solid castile soap: If you prefer, you can use a solid bar of castile soap instead of liquid castile soap. Grate the bar into flakes before infusing it with the orange peels.
- Add baking soda: For extra cleaning power, add a tablespoon of baking soda to the soap mixture before diluting it with water.
Wrapping Up
Making your own dish soap with orange peel is an easy, eco-friendly way to clean your dishes and reduce your environmental impact. With its degreasing, antibacterial, and refreshing properties, this homemade dish soap will leave your dishes sparkling clean and your kitchen smelling invigoratingly citrusy.
Questions You May Have
Q: Can I use dried orange peels instead of fresh peels?
A: Yes, you can use dried orange peels. However, fresh peels will provide a stronger citrus scent.
Q: How long does homemade dish soap last?
A: Homemade dish soap without preservatives has a shorter shelf life than commercial soaps. Aim to use it within 2-3 months of making it.
Q: Is orange peel dish soap safe for all surfaces?
A: While it’s gentle on most surfaces, it’s best to avoid using it on delicate surfaces such as marble or granite.
Q: Can I add other ingredients to my dish soap?
A: Yes, you can experiment with adding other ingredients such as baking soda, essential oils, or other citrus peels to create different variations.
Q: How do I dispose of orange peel dish soap?
A: Pour any unused dish soap down the drain and rinse with plenty of water. The biodegradable nature of orange peels makes it safe for disposal in this way.
