Natural and Thrifty in 365: #340 Lighten Linens with Lemons

by Beth K on August 4, 2012

in Health and Wellness, Organic and Green Living

lighten linens with lemons 240x300 Natural and Thrifty in 365: #340 Lighten Linens with Lemons

Use the natural lightening power of lemons to brighten your whites on the stovetop.

  • Gather your napkins, small linens, socks and such to be whitened.
  • Fill a large pot with water and slices of lemon.
  • Bring water to boil and then turn off the heat.
  • Soak the linens in the water for an hour.  For maximum brightening power, place the linens in the sun.
  • Launder as usual.

This is far less damaging to natural fibers than even just a touch of bleach.  You’ll love the whiter whites.  I’ve done this with 100% cotton cloth diapers and the results were phenomenal.

Photo courtesy of Martha Stewart.

Natural & Thrifty in 365 is a year-long series of 365 tips for living more green, natural and healthy while saving money. Do you have a natural and thrifty tip that you would like to share with The Thrifty Mama readers? Submit your awesome idea here. You just might get featured as one of the 365 tips!

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{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }

Peggy August 5, 2012 at 8:05 pm

Do you have any recommendations for whitening large linens such as duvet covers, furniture slipcovers, etc? Especially when you have a front loading washing machine? Thanks!

Reply

Crystal Collins August 21, 2012 at 3:36 pm

Peggy – I usually try some Borax in my wash, and then vinegar in the rinse cycle for big items. I’ve also been known to put lemon juice in my wash cycle.

Reply

Renee August 6, 2012 at 11:49 am

Would this work with T-Shirts as well?

Reply

Crystal Collins August 21, 2012 at 3:35 pm

Sure does Renee!

Reply

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