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Today, we are sharing with you the surprising uses of citric acid in cleaning.

This is a reference post for readers to learn more about the ingredient citric acid including why it is used in cleaning. I have been experimenting with using citric acid the last several years, and I have really loved the results.

The first recipe we shared on Chemistry Cachet with citric acid was this DIY toilet bowl cleaner. People were asking why does it work so well?? Why are you using citric acid? What is citric acid?

It has also showed up in our DIY trashcan deodorizing spray and this DIY refrigerator cleaner.  

Let’s learn more about why this ingredient is powerful and useful in cleaning.

Discover the Surprising Uses of Citric Acid in Cleaning

From its pH levels to remarkable stain-removing properties, this article will will share some in-depth details of citric acid’s cleaning power. This versatile ingredient can deodorize and clean with remarkable results, leaving your home cleaner and fresher than ever before. 

The uses of citric acid in cleaning are possible due to the science.

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The Science Behind Citric Acid

To truly understand the power of citric acid in cleaning, it’s important to look at the science behind this incredible ingredient. Citric acid, also known as 2-hydroxy-1,2,3-propanetricarboxylic acid, is a naturally occurring compound found in citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges, and grapefruits. Its chemical structure is composed of three carboxylic acid groups, which are responsible for its unique properties.

One of the key scientific features of citric acid lies in its acidity. With a pH level between 3-6, citric acid falls on the lower end of the pH scale, making it highly effective at breaking down stubborn stains and dissolving tough grime. Its acidic nature allows it to react with minerals and metals, removing rust and hard water deposits that can accumulate on various surfaces. A pH between 3-6 makes citric acid a weak acid.

Aside from its acidity, citric acid also has excellent chelating abilities. Chelation refers to the process of binding and removing metal ions from surfaces. Citric acid’s structure enables it to form complexes with metal ions, such as calcium and iron, loosening their hold on surfaces and making them easier to clean. This makes citric acid very useful for descaling coffee makers, removing limescale from bathroom fixtures, or even restoring the shine to tarnished silverware. This is also what makes it different than vinegar (acetic acid), but we have more on that below.

The Manufacturing Process of Citric Acid

I wanted to include some information on how citric acid is actually made since readers have often asked if they can make their own. The manufacturing process of citric acid involves several processes to get to the powdered substance you find in cleaning products. 

First, citric acid is extracted from natural sources such as citrus fruits like lemons and oranges. Citrus fruits are rich in citric acid, making them the primary choice for extraction. Citric acid can also be produced through the fermentation of molasses, a byproduct of sugar production.

Once extracted or fermented, the resulting liquid undergoes a purification process to remove impurities and unwanted substances. This purification process involves filtration, precipitation, and crystallization techniques to ensure a high-quality citric acid product. 

After purification, the citric acid solution is concentrated through evaporation to remove excess water content. The concentrated solution is then subjected to crystallization, where citric acid crystals start to form. These crystals are separated from the remaining liquid through  filtration. The separated crystals are then washed to eliminate any residual impurities.

The final step in the manufacturing process involves drying the citric acid crystals to create a powdered form that is easy to handle, store, and use in cleaning applications. 

As you can see from the steps above, it is better not to try to make your own citric acid. It takes many precise steps, and it has a large margin for error. c

Understanding the pH Levels of Citric Acid

As we mentioned in the beginning, citric acid has a pH between 3 and 6.

It’s important to note that while the low pH of citric acid makes it an effective cleaner, it also means that it should be used with caution on certain surfaces. Citric acid can be corrosive to certain metals, such as aluminum and copper, so it’s best to avoid using it on these surfaces to prevent damage. Although it is considered a weak acid, it should still be avoided on surfaces that can be damaged by acids.

Here are the ways you can use citric acid for cleaning.

Removing Stains and Tackling Tough Grime

When it comes to stains, citric acid can be a game-changer. Whether it’s a stubborn coffee stain on your favorite shirt or a wine stain on the carpet, citric acid can help break down the pigments and lift the stain off the surface. Simply create a paste by mixing citric acid with a small amount of water, apply it to the stain, and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, gently scrub the area with a soft brush or cloth and rinse thoroughly. 

Citric acid is also great for greasy surfaces.  Mix citric acid with water or a mild detergent to create a cleaning solution. Apply it to the dirty area, let it sit for a few minutes, and then scrub away the grime with a sponge or brush. 

Deodorizing with Citric Acid

Citric acid’s acidic properties make it an excellent odor neutralizer.

One of the most common areas where odors tend to linger is in the kitchen. By simply mixing a solution of water and citric acid and applying it to these surfaces, you can eliminate stubborn smells and create a more inviting atmosphere. Our homemade trashcan deodorizing spray uses these ingredients to combat odor!

Citric acid is also great to clean bathroom surfaces, you not only remove stains and grime but also tackle the underlying odors, leaving your bathroom smelling clean and inviting. Our DIY toilet bowl cleaner uses citric acid to clean and deodorize the toilet. 

Citric acid can also work wonders in deodorizing fabrics. If you have clothing, towels, or linens that have an odor, a simple addition of citric acid to your laundry routine can make a huge difference. By adding half a cup of citric acid to your wash cycle, you can effectively eliminate odors and leave your fabrics smelling clean.

Stain Removing With Citric Acid

When it comes to tackling stubborn stains, citric acid is great for breaking down all types of stains. Simply create a paste by mixing a tablespoon of citric acid with a few drops of water, apply it to the stain, and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, gently scrub the area before tossing it into the wash. This can work on a variety of stains!

Anti-Bacterial

Citric Acid also has anti-bacterial properties.  When combined with water, citric acid creates an acidic environment that is hostile to many types of bacteria and viruses.

Citric Acid Vs Vinegar

The big question everyone has is what is the difference in citric acid and vinegar? They both are acidic and natural, but they have different uses.

Citric acid has a higher pH, so it is slightly less acidic than acetic acid. Citric acid is also a mild reducing agent, so it has abilities acetic acid doesn’t. Reducing agents like citric acid can actually  unravel, proteins—including “proteins that make viruses function.” This means it might be a better antimicrobial cleaner than vinegar. Vinegar has some antibacterial benefits, but it is not a disinfectant.

As we mentioned above, citric acid is also a chelator. It can descale even better than vinegar.

Citric Acid Anhydrous vs Citric Acid

If you see the term “citric acid anhydrous” on your ingredient list instead of citric acid, this simply means it has no water in the formula. The term anhydrous means from from water of crystallization. It was crystallized with hot water. This won’t make a difference in using it for cleaning though.

Where To Buy Citric Acid?

Citric acid will show up in many cleaning products you buy from the store. It is a popular choice in non-toxic solutions including laundry detergent, dishwashing detergent and cleaning sprays. I recommend buying it in pure form to use in homemade cleaners and other ideas from this post. The options I have purchased are this one from Amazon, and I have also used this one and this one. 

Summary of the Uses of Citric Acid in Cleaning

By harnessing the power of this natural ingredient, you can clean your home more efficiently. 

Incorporating citric acid into your cleaning routine can truly be a game-changer. Throughout this article, we’ve shared the science behind citric acid, explored its manufacturing process, and what you can clean with citric acid.

The uses of citric acid in cleaning are endless. Remember, a little citric acid goes a long way!

 

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