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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 scientific marvels and manufacturing process to its pH levels and remarkable stain-removing properties, this article will delve into the depths 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, effectively removing rust and hard water deposits that can accumulate on various surfaces. This is considered a weak acid.

Beyond its acidity, citric acid also possesses 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, effectively loosening their hold on surfaces and making them easier to clean. This makes citric acid particularly 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

The manufacturing process of citric acid involves several processes to get to the powdered substance you find in cleaning products. This compound, known for its versatile cleaning properties, is derived through a series of carefully orchestrated steps.

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. However, 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. Impurities such as calcium, oxalate, and iron are removed to enhance the purity of the citric acid.

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. The crystals are typically dried using hot air, which evaporates the remaining moisture content. The resulting citric acid powder is then packaged and ready to be used in a variety of cleaning products. 

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. 

Understanding the pH Levels of Citric Acid

Understanding the pH levels of citric acid is key to unlocking its full cleaning potential. As a weak organic acid, citric acid has a low pH level, making it an effective cleaner for removing stains and tackling tough grime. pH, or potential of hydrogen, is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a solution. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with 0 being highly acidic, 7 being neutral, and 14 being highly alkaline.

Citric acid falls on the acidic end of the scale, typically measuring between 3 and 6. This acidic nature gives citric acid its impressive cleaning power. When applied to various surfaces, the low pH of citric acid helps break down stubborn stains and dissolve dirt and grime. Its acid properties allow it to effectively remove limescale, soap scum, and hard water deposits, making it a popular ingredient in bathroom and kitchen cleaners.

Furthermore, citric acid’s low pH level makes it a natural choice for tackling tough stains on fabrics. When added to laundry detergent, citric acid can help remove rust, ink, and even red wine stains. Its acidity works to break down the chemical bonds that hold the stain together, making it easier to lift away.

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 (pH between 3 and 6), it should still be avoided on surfaces that can be damaged by acids.

Removing Stains and Tackling Tough Grime

The versatility of citric acid makes it an ideal solution for various cleaning tasks around the house. From clothing stains to greasy countertops, citric acid can be your go-to cleaning agent.

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. You’ll be amazed at how effectively citric acid can tackle even the toughest stains.

In addition to its stain-removing abilities, citric acid is also great for tackling tough grime. From greasy stove tops to caked-on dirt in the bathroom, citric acid can cut through the grime and leave your surfaces sparkling clean. 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. The acidic properties of citric acid work wonders in breaking down dirt and grease, making your cleaning process a breeze.

Deodorizing with Citric Acid

Citric acid’s acidic properties make it an excellent odor neutralizer, effectively eliminating unpleasant smells and leaving behind a fresh, clean scent.

One of the most common areas where odors tend to linger is in the kitchen. From food scraps in the garbage disposal to lingering smells on cutting boards and countertops, the kitchen can sometimes be a breeding ground for unwanted odors. Fortunately, citric acid comes to the rescue here too. 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!

Another area where the deodorizing power of citric acid shines is in the bathroom. From the stench of mildew in the shower to areas around the toilet, it’s essential to keep these spaces smelling fresh. By using a citric acid solution to clean these 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 are plagued by unpleasant smells, 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 and revitalized.

Revolutionize Your Cleaning Routine with Citric Acid

In addition to its deodorizing properties, citric acid can truly revolutionize your cleaning routine by serving as a versatile stain remover and disinfectant. Let’s dive into how this incredible ingredient can elevate your cleaning game and help you achieve an impeccably clean and odor-free home.

When it comes to tackling stubborn stains, citric acid is a secret weapon that you’ll be glad to have in your cleaning arsenal. 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!

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

With its versatility as a stain remover and deodorizer, citric acid offers a multitude of possibilities for transforming your cleaning routine. 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 delved into the science behind citric acid, explored its manufacturing process, and gained a deep understanding of its pH levels. We’ve discovered how this remarkable ingredient effortlessly removes stains, tackles tough grime, and deodorizes surfaces with ease.

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

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