The incredible 55p fruit cleaning hack that will leave your bathroom 'immaculate'

Many of us dread doing chores around the house. They can be boring, time consuming and even a bit unpleasant.

It can also be difficult and not to mention expensive to find the best products clean effectively.

However, there are some natural options that might prove a better alternative.

Experts revealed a simple 55 pence hack for cleaning that could work wonders in the bathroom.

According to Plumbnation, combining a grapefruit with salt can leave your bathroom sparkling clean and fresh-smelling without the use of harsh chemicals.

A spokesperson from Plumbnation said: “One often overlooked tip for maximising the use of grapefruit and salt in bathroom cleaning is to target less obvious spots like showerheads and faucets. 

“These areas can accumulate mineral deposits and soap scum that affect water flow and overall cleanliness. Simply rub a salted grapefruit on these fixtures, let it sit for a few minutes, and rinse thoroughly. 

“This not only ensures a sparkling finish but also helps maintain the efficiency of your fixtures, potentially saving on water bills in the long run.

“For those concerned about maintaining a clean bathroom while safeguarding their health, this natural cleaning method is a game-changer. 

“Unlike harsh chemical cleaners that can irritate the skin and respiratory system, using grapefruit and salt is gentle yet effective. It’s perfect for those with sensitive skin or allergies, providing a safe cleaning option that doesn’t compromise on performance. 

“Embracing this method can significantly reduce exposure to potentially harmful substances, promoting a healthier home environment.”

What is needed: 

• One large grapefruit (which currently costs 55p from Sainsbury’s or Ocado)
• Coarse salt (sea salt or kosher salt works best)
• Water for rinsing
• Sponge or cloth (optional).

Preparation

Begin by cutting the grapefruit in half. Each half can be used for different areas or surfaces in the bathroom.

Application

Sprinkle a generous amount of coarse salt onto the cut surface of one half of the grapefruit. The salt serves as a natural abrasive that will help scrub away dirt and grime.

Bath

Take the salted grapefruit half and rub it directly onto the bathtub’s surface. Use circular motions to cover the entire area, focusing on spots with soap scum or grime buildup. 

The coarse salt combined with the acidic juice of the grapefruit effectively breaks down and lifts away dirt.

Sinks 

For sinks, scrub the basin thoroughly with the grapefruit, making sure to get around the faucet and handles where mineral deposits and soap scum often accumulate. The salt's abrasiveness will help dislodge any tough residues.

Tiles and grout

Use the grapefruit to clean tiles and grout lines. Apply pressure as needed to areas with stubborn stains. The citric acid in the grapefruit helps to dissolve grime, while the salt acts as a scouring agent to scrub away embedded dirt. This combination is particularly effective for whitening grout and leaving tiles shiny.

Toilets

While less common, you can use this method to scrub the toilet bowl. Simply sprinkle salt into the bowl, then use the grapefruit to scrub the inside surfaces. The natural acidity and abrasiveness help to remove stains and freshen the bowl.

Let it sit

For particularly tough stains or heavily soiled areas, allow the grapefruit juice and salt mixture to sit on the surface for 5-10 minutes. This extra time lets the citric acid break down soap scum and grime more effectively, while the salt continues to work as an abrasive.

Rinse

Thoroughly rinse the area with water to wash away the salt and grapefruit residue. A sponge or cloth can be used to help remove any remaining debris. Ensure that all surfaces are rinsed well to prevent any sticky residue.

Repeat

If necessary, repeat the process with the other half of the grapefruit or apply more salt as needed for additional cleaning.