LEMON PEEL AS A CITRUS CLEANING AGENT

A RESEARCH PAPER
PRESENTED TO THE FACULTY OF SHS DEPARTMENT
OF BANSUD INSTITUTE INC.
POBLACION, BANSUD

In partial fulfilment of the requirements

For the subject 3I’s
S.Y. 2024-2025

By: Lloyd Jefferson R. Rubio

 CHAPTER I
THE PROBLEM AND IT’S BACKGROUND

INTRODUCTION
For a long period of time, plants have been a valuable source of natural products for maintaining
human health. The use of plants extracts, with known antimicrobial properties can be of great
significance in cleaning treatment. While lemon peel can have natural cleaning properties due to its
acidity. The citric acid in lemons is antibacterial and antiseptic, which means that lemons can kill
bacteria, remove mold and mildew and even, if done properly, remove rust. The oils in the peels of the
lemon can also help to cut grease and staining, leaving household items clean and shining. There are
many dangerous materials in our surroundings, and most of them found within our homes. Strong stain
remover like zonrox and chlorine are present in almost any homes. Extended contact to these
substances may results in allergies, respiratory irritation, and other severe health issues. It’s imperative
to use cleaning sprays in areas with good ventilation and to hold off on breathing in the fumes right
away. Furthermore, certain ingredients in cleaning sprays, like fragrances, or specific cleaning
chemicals, may cause allergies or sensitivities in certain individuals. Moreover, cleaning sprays are
essential in maintaining a hygienic environment, and the choice of ingredients such as lemon in these
products can impact both efficacy and environmental sustainability. Additionally, understanding the
efficiency of lemon-based cleaning sprays can contribute valuable insights in developing eco-friendly
and efficient cleaning solution for various surfaces. This research aims to investigate the effectiveness
of lemon peel extracts as a key component in cleaning sprays, exploring their antibacterial properties.
What is the problem?
In the kitchen, the problem that necessitates a stain remover arises from frequent spills and stained
caused by food, grease, sauces, and beverages. These stains can be particularly challenging due to their
composition and tendency to stick to surfaces. The key issues include:
Grease stains: Oil and fat from cooking can leave stubborn marks on countertops, stovetops,
and kitchen fabrics like aprons and dish towels.
1. Food spills: sauces, coffee, wine, or condiments can stain kitchen surfaces, tablecloths,
and utensils, making them difficult to clean with just soap and water.
2. Burn marks: Cookware and stovetops often get stained with burnt residues that require
special cleaning agents.
3. Bacterial growth: Stains can trap moisture and food particles, creating a breeding ground
for bacteria if not properly cleaned.
4. Aesthetic impact: Persistent stains on the kitchen surfaces and tools can make the space
look dirty and unhygienic.
GENERAL STATEMENT:
This research aims to create an alternative and effective cleaning agent specially on the stains in
one’s kitchen and clothes

SPECIFIC QUESTIONS
1. How to make an alternative cleaning spray?
2. How to remove stain in kitchen and clothes.
3. How to make an effective cleaning agent?

SCOPE AND THE LIMITATIONS

This research will not extend to the various factors that could influence the effectiveness of the lemon
peel cleaning spray, such as variations in lemon peel quality or difference in the environmental
condition. This oversight could limit the applicability of the findings to real world situation.

SIGNIFICANCE OF STUDY
The result of the study:

Parents- this will help the parents to save money by not buying so many different cleaning products.
Also, since it’s homemade, it is more natural and less filled with harmful chemicals. In addition,
parents can worry less about harmful stuff when their kids are playing around the house. It’s a solution
that’s friendly to both your wallet and family’s health.
Businessman- the lemon peel cleaning spray can be beneficial for businessmen too. First off, its cost
effective. Making your own cleaning solution from lemon peels can save money compared to buying
various commercial cleaning products. This could be beneficial for businesses looking to cut on costs
on cleaning supplies. Additionally, if the lemon peel spray becomes a popular choice, using it in a
business setting might contribute to an eco-friendlier and more natural environment.
Community- lemon peel cleaning spray can offer several benefits to the community. It is a natural and
eco-friendly alternative to conventional cleaning products, reducing the

use of harsh chemicals that can be harmful to both human health and the environment. The pleasant
citrus scent of lemon can help freshen up spaces and eliminate unpleasant odors. By using lemon peel
cleaning spray, the community can promote a healthier and more sustainable approach to cleaning
while enjoying the benefits of a clean and fresh environment.
Future Researchers- research on “Lemon Peel as Cleaning Spray” helps future researchers gain a
deeper understanding about its effect to the society that can be helpful for them to propose new
strategies to mitigate the negative effects of the solution.

DEFINITION OF TERMS
The term being used in this study are operationally defined for a simpler and better
understanding.

Bacteria – small single-celled organisms. Bacteria are found almost everywhere on Earth.
Citrus Peel- As being described in the study, it is the skin of fruits such as lemon, oranges, limes or
grapefruits. Citrus peel is being used as the first variables in this study in making anti-bacterial
cleaning solution.
Cleaning Agent- In this study, it is a liquid, or solution that helps to destroy a wide range of germs or
bacteria.
Extract- As being defined in the study, it is the way to separate a desired substance when it is mixed
with other substances.
Stain- As used in the study, a dirty mark on something that is difficult to remove. Stain is being used to
test the effectiveness of the produced cleaning solution.
 CHAPTER 2
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

RELATED LITERATURE

Ves stem root blossoms have antibacterial properties against clinically important bacterial strains
(Kawaii et al., 2018). According to Burt (2015) and Ortuno et al (2019), citrus flavonoids exhibit a wide
range of biological actions, such as antiviral, anti-fungal, antidiabetic, and antibacterial properties. They
seem to have a protective function in plants against invasive pathogens such as bacteria, fungus, and viruses.
(Sohn et al., 2020). Plants typically contain flavonoids in glycosylated forms, and their bioavailability in
significantly influenced by the sugar moiety. Citrus aurantium L. (Bitter orange) peel, flowers, and leaves are
commonly used in preparations to reduce disorders of the central nervous system (Pul Trini et al,.2017).
Citrus fruit peels are rich in flavonoids glycosides, coumarins, and sitosterol, glycosides, and volatile oils
(Shahnah et al,.2014). Numerous significant bioactivities of polyethoxylated flavones are uncommon in
other plants. (Ahmad et al,.2018). Formulation and evaluation dishwashing solution has increased recently as
a result of changing costumers demands and the growth of the food service industry. However, because
surfactants and other chemicals are discharged into the air and water, typical dishwashing detergents have an
adverse effect on the environment. T o ease these concerns, manufactures of dishwashing solutions are
developing recipes that are more environmentally friendly, such as those that are biodegradable and based on
plant-based ingredients. (Ahmed and others, 2017). These eco-friendly formulations have to meet the same
high-performance standards as regular dishwashing solutions (Hardly et al,.2017) Development and
evaluation Creating an eco-friendly dishwashing liquid using lemon is uncontroversial. Lemons are a
popular ingredient in green cleaning products because of their lovely aroma and natural cleaning capabilities.
The process of creating and analyzing such a product would probably entail determining how well lemon
cleans and comparing its environmental impact to that of conventional dishwashing detergents. (Gomez, A.,
Ronda, A., at al,.2019) Lemon peel extract contains citric acid, which helps break down grease and grime
effectively, making it a powerful natural degreaser for cleaning surfaces and dishes. It is an organic waste
that contains vitamin C, essential oils and pectin. The essential oil content in orange peel and cinnamon
waste can ward off ants and can be used as a versatile cleaning liquid with white vinegar as a solvent.
(Mardhiah, A., & Husna, A.H.A.2021.)
 CHAPTER 3

RESPONDENTS OF THE STUDY:

The respondents of this study are 10 random people either boy or girl, from Poblacion, Bansud. The
laundry worker who usually use stain remover.

SAMPLING METHOD:
The researchers used the random sampling method to gather data and to find respondents to test the
effectiveness of the stain remover that is made up by lemon.
RESEARCH INSTRUMENT:
In gathering the data, the reseachers used the 3 questions presented in the state of the problem and
conducted an interview with 10 respondents from Poblacion, Bansud.
GATHERING THE DATA:
The reseachers conducted an interview to the laundry worker to answer the 3 questions to determine how
effective is the lemon as an effective medium especially on whites clothes and white kitchen.

STATISTICAL TOOL:
Formula:
%= Frequency divided by Population
X 100
 CHAPTER 4

Lemon peel can be used as a natural stain remover due to its acidic nature. The citric acid in lemon peel
helps break down stains, making them easier to remove.

How to use lemon peel for stain removal;

Grate or grind the lemon peel to the stain: Rub it gently into the fabric.
Let it sit for a few minutes: allow the citric acid to work its magic.
Rinse with water: Wash the fabric as usual.

Results and Discussion:

Lemon peel is generally effective in removing light stains, especially those from fruits, vegetables, and
coffee. It can also help brighten faded colors. However, lemon peel may not be effective on greasy stains that
have set in for a long time.

Limitations:
Color fading: Lemon peel can sometimes cause color fading, especially on delicate fabrics.
Not suitable for all fabrics: It’s not recommended to use lemon peel on delicate fabrics such as silk or wool.
May not remove all stains: It may not be effective on stubborn or greasy stains.
 CHAPTER 5

SUMMARY OF FINDINGS:
This study explored the potential of lemon peel as a natural and eco-friendly stain remover. Lemon peels,
known for their citric acid content and natural cleaning properties, were processed into a solution and tested
on various common stains. The investigation revealed the following key findings:
Lemon peel extract effectively removed stains such as coffee and grease, performing comparably to
commercial stain removers on certain fabrics.
The solution was less effective on stubborn stains like ink or dye but showed potential with extended
application or higher concentrations.
The use of lemon peel as a stain remover demonstrated environmental benefits by repurposing food waste
and reducing reliance on synthetic chemicals.
CONCLUSION:
Lemon peel is a natural and effective stain remover for light stains, but it may not be suitable for all fabrics
or all types of stains. It’s always a good idea to test the lemon peel on a hidden area of the fabric first to
ensure it doesn’t cause any damage.
RECOMMENDATION
Based on the findings, the following recommendations are proposed:
1. For Further Reseach
Investigate the effectiveness of lemon peel extract on a wider range of stains and fabric types.
Experiment with the addition of other natural cleaning agents, such as baking soda or vinegar, to enhance
stain removal properties.
Analyze the long-term effects of lemon peel solution on fabric durability and colorfastness.
2. For Practical Applications
Develop an easy-to-follow preparation guide for households to make lemon peel stain remover.
Encourage the integration of lemon peel solutions into eco-friendly cleaning product lines.
3. For Environmental Impact
Promote the use of lemon peels as a means of reducing food waste.
Educate the public about the benefits of natural and biodegradable cleaning agents.

By advancing these recommendations, lemon peel solutions can serve as an effective and sustainable
alternative in the realm of household cleaning.