Washing fruits and veggies is important, organic or not. Water alone is not enough to get dirt or possible pesticides off produce before it goes into our bodies. This Fruit and Veggie Cleaning Wash recipe is a natural, cost-effective way to thoroughly clean fruits and veggies. Spray, rinse and enjoy!
Fruit is a staple in our homes. It is a fast and healthy snack that my kids will actually eat without complaining. We eat a lot of berries this time of year. In the spring and summer, I absolutely love making Strawberry Shortcake [1] or Blueberry Frozen Yogurt [2].
Since I am not able to grow my own fruits and veggies any time soon, I get mine at the store for now. Most grocery stores have an impressive selection of organic produce. Buying organic produce is one way to cut down on the number of chemicals in your food.
Although free from most pesticides, there is still the possibility of contamination in organic produce. Wax, dirt, and bacteria are likely lurking on your berries. Did you know that 99% of strawberries contain pesticide residue?
The EWG has a fantastic list [3] of safe non-organic produce, and ones you should always buy organic. Either way, a good cleaning is necessary.
The two essential oils found in the recipe come in a Premium Starter Kit [4]. Thieves has a spicy, cleansing aroma and can be used to promote wellness. Citrus Fresh is a favorite of mine for cleaning, diffusing and freshening my home.
What I love about this recipe is that to can be used as a quick spray for an apple, or a soak for bigger items like lettuce or potatoes. I keep this Fruit and Veggie Cleaning Spray right next to my Lemon Basil Dish Soap [5] so it is always close by. It takes about 2 minutes to make and a little goes a long way.
New to essential oils? Learn more about the only brand we use and trust. [4]
Fruit and Veggie Cleaning Wash
Ingredients
- 2 oz Water
- 2 oz White Vinegar or Apple Cider Vinegar (buy here) [6]
- 1 Tablespoon Citric Acid (buy here) [7]
- 4 drops Citrus Fresh essential oil
- 2 drops Thieves essential oil
- 4 oz. glass spray bottle (buy here) [8]
Directions
- Dissolve citric acid into the water. Add vinegar and essential oils
- Combine all ingredients in the spray bottle. If you prefer to use a funnel, I like this one here [9]
- Shake or stir to combine
- Spray on fruit or veggies to clean
- Rinse thoroughly with cold water before consumption
- If you would prefer to use this as a soak, fill the sink or a large bowl with enough water to cover your produce. Add 1 cup of vinegar, 2 tablespoons citric acid, 6 drops Citrus Fres, and 3 drops of Thieves. Soak for 10 minutes and rinse thoroughly.
This recipe is extremely affordable to make. Chances are you already have the ingredients in your home.
Cost Breakdown
Citrus Fresh – $0.07/per drop – $0.28
Thieves – $0.15/per drop – $0.30
White Vinegar – $0.02/fl oz – $0.04
Citric Acid – $0.43/oz – $0.22 per tablespoon
Total = $0.52/4 ounces
Tips for Keeping Fruits & Veggies Fresher Longer
- Don’t pre-wash. Wash produce right before consuming to maximize shelf life, especially berries
- Refrigerate lemons, limes, and oranges
- Store bananas by themselves or individually to prevent off-gassing
- Avoid plastic bags to store fruits and vegetable since they constrict air flow. This Produce Saver [10] is one of my favorite products for storing fruits and veggies in my fridge. The vents help regulate oxygen and carbon dioxide to reduce moisture and spoilage
More essential oil cleaning recipes you might enjoy:
- All-Purpose Cleaning Spray [11]
- Cleaning Wipes [12]
- Oven Cleaner [13]
- Glass & Window Cleaner [14]