Expert reveals 55p grapefruit hack for sparkling clean bath with half the scrubbing & the peel has a fascinating use too
WITH spring cleaning underway, many people tackling jobs they'd typically prefer to avoid - like cleaning their bath.
It turns out that a common fruit found in the supermarket may be key to leaving your tub gleaming and looking brand new.
3
3
We all know cleaning the bathroom is a job most Brits would rather skip, and cleaning the bath is one of those back-breaking tasks we put off as long as possible.
But the longer we leave it, the harder the grime becomes to shift, and the more we end up relying on harsh cleaning products that stink and are bad for our health, the environment and our sanity.
Instead of reaching for harsh chemicals and sprays, this one natural ingredient can cut through grime instantly - grapefruit.
A cleaning expert shares a simple hack using grapefruit and salt which leaves your bathroom looking amazing and smelling fantastic.
According to Nigel Bearman, cleaning expert at Daily Poppins, grapefruit is eco friendly, effective and could leave your bathroom smelling amazing too.
He explained: 'Grapefruit contains citric acid which helps to quickly break down soap scum and grime found in baths and showers.
'It acts as a natural cleaning agent and dissolves through tough stains while eliminating germs and bacteria.'
All you need to do is cut the grapefruit in half and sprinkle it with coarse salt (like Epsom or sea salt).
Next, take one half of the grapefruit and lightly scrub it over the surface of your bath and shower.
Let it sit for a few minutes to help the citric acid work even harder on the stains.
Rinse the area with warm water and wipe clean if necessary.
He shared: 'The salt works as an abrasive to help scrub the grime away while you use it, while the grapefruit uses its natural acids and antibacterial properties to break down the buildup and leave your bathroom sparkling clean. It's a simple, eco-friendly solution that gives you a fresh, citrus-scented finish.'
Once you've seen how effective grapefruit is on your bath, you may want to use it everywhere.
From scrubbing the tub, to freshening up tiles, taps and even the toilet, this one ingredient is so versatile, but without all the harsh chemicals.
3
You can even make your own all-purpose grapefruit spray which can be used an an easy toilet and surface cleaner.
Simply squeeze the juice from the grapefruit into a spray bottle, add one to two tablespoons of vinegar, top it up with warm water, and give it a good shake.
This creates a natural, eco-friendly spray that smells amazing and gets the job done.
You can also use the leftover grapefruit peel to deodorise your bathroom bin or pop it in a pot of boiling water to naturally scent the whole room.
So next time you're doing a deep clean, skip the harsh chemicals and grab a grapefruit instead.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
South Wales Guardian
43 minutes ago
- South Wales Guardian
When Bindweed flowers in UK and how to kill and remove it
Bindweed is one of the common plants that can flower and cause problems in your garden. While it may look pretty, it has been described by experts as "rampant" and can "quickly smother other plants in your garden". Here is all to know about Bindweed, including what it looks like, when it flowers in the UK, if it is poisonous and how to remove it. Bindweed is a UK native wildflower, and while it can be beneficial to wildlife, its spreading roots and twining stems can cause issues in gardens. The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) highlights two types of common Bindweed, namely Hedge bindweed and Field Bindweed. Hedge Bindweed has heart-shaped leaves and funnel-shaped flowers. These are "usually white but can also be pale pink with a white centre and five white stripes". "After flowering, rounded capsules form, each containing up to four oval-shaped brown seeds," the RHS adds. Hedge Bindweed has heart-shaped leaves and funnel-shaped flowers (Image: Getty Images) Field Bindweed is described as "smaller and less vigorous", and has oval to arrow-shaped, grey-green leaves, with funnel-shaped flowers that are often pale pink, but can also be pink with a white centre and stripes, or plain white. Wildlife Trusts notes that Bindweed typically flowers between June and September. Despite Bindweed stems typically dying back in autumn, the root system remains and will be "ready to produce new shoots in spring". Nick Wood is a horticulture expert at online garden centre Gardening Express. He has issued a warning to Brits as we come into the seasons when Bindweed typically flowers. Arvensis: refers to plants typically found in, or associated with, fields or cultivated areas. From the Latin 'arvum' meaning field. Field Bindweed, Convolvulus arvensis. Leaves to 5cm, alternate with basal lobes. Flowers trumpet-shaped, white or pink and white, 1-3cm across. He said: "Bindweed might look pretty with its delicate flowers and heart-shaped leaves, but don't be fooled - it's a rampant twining vine that can quickly smother other plants in your garden. "Hedge bindweed is the real culprit here, with its fast-growing, climbing stems that can wrap around and strangle anything in their path. "Field bindweed is less aggressive, but it's still a persistent problem, especially in open soil where it can spread rapidly. "While it's a native wildflower, its aggressive growth and spreading roots can quickly take over gardens and other natural areas, which is why it's incredibly invasive in the UK. Mr Wood added that while there is "no specific law directly addressing bindweed in the UK", Brits "all have a legal duty to manage invasive plants to prevent them from spreading and causing harm to neighbouring properties". The RHS adds that while you do not need to remove Bindweed from your garden, it can spread to other plants, so controlling it is key. Bindweed in Mid June with its Beautiful White Flowers Bindweed, also known as Convolvulus arvensis, is a common weed that produces beautiful white flowers during the summer months, including mid-June. Despite its attractive appearance, bindweed is considered an invasive plant that can be problematic in gardens and agricultural fields. #bindweed It said: "If left to grow in a wildlife corner or less-cultivated area, or through a mature hedge, it will boost the variety of living organisms (plants, animals, fungi and microorganisms) in a particular environment. "Boosting the biodiversity of your garden has many benefits, including supporting wildlife, improving soil health and reducing the likelihood of pest and disease problems. biodiversity of your garden and gives you a chance to enjoy its attractive flowers. "It is, however, a good idea to control the spread of hedge and field bindweed as they are both capable of outcompeting and smothering other plants." With Bindweed being very common in the UK, it is important to know if it is poisonous to humans or pets. Thankfully, unlike some other weeds in the UK, Bindweed is not poisonous. The expert explained: "Luckily, bindweed isn't poisonous to humans or pets, but it can be a nightmare for gardeners trying to keep it under control. This is despite the fact that its flowers can attract pollinators. "But don't let that fact lull you into letting it run wild - the damage it can do far outweighs any small benefit." Mr Wood also touched on how best to remove the invasive plant. The expert warned Brits to "act quickly" if they find Bindweed in their garden. He also issued a guide on how to attack the plant and get rid of it. Bindweed can be a pest to properties as it grows fast and infiltrates property boundaries damaging the structure (Image: Getty Images) Mr Wood said: "Pull it up by hand, being careful to remove as much of the root system as possible. "If you leave even a tiny fragment behind, it can regrow and spread all over again. "You'll need patience and persistence, and be prepared to keep at it for several growing seasons. "Herbicides can work, but they often require multiple applications, and be careful not to damage nearby plants." If you are looking to dig out Bindweed, Mr Wood recommended against it. Recommended reading: He said: "You can try digging it out, but be warned - bindweed has a notoriously extensive root system. "If you miss even a tiny piece, it can regrow with a vengeance. Regular cutting and pulling can keep bindweed in check, but it's a long game. "Persistence is key, and whatever you do, don't let it flower - that's when it spreads even faster."
Daily Mirror
15 hours ago
- Daily Mirror
One in 10 Brits have had the same best friend since they were 10 years old
Study reveals Brits find lifelong best friends in their teens, but busy schedules are a challenge for most adult friendships The typical Brit reportedly meets their best friend at the age of 19, with one in ten maintaining the same close friendship since they were just 10 years old. A study involving 2,000 UK adults discovered that a fifth found lifelong friends between the ages of 11 to 15, making school the ultimate place for building friendships. Classrooms have given rise to 37% of best-friendships, particularly among Gen-Z and millennials, while work has played matchmaker for 17%. Main factors for securing the bond between best friends were identified as trust, support during difficult times, and a shared sense of humour. However, staying close doesn't appear as straightforward as it used to be – a third of those polled think it's harder to maintain adult friendships as they only manage to meet up with their best friends a few times a year. Merely 13% manage to meet up with their friend on a weekly basis, and 17% leave it as long as a year in between catch ups. And it seems busy life schedules are to blame, with 46% believing it's because people are more unavailable now, so it is harder to find time to connect. The study also uncovered 13% of adults aged over 65 have more than five best friends, whereas only 6% of Gen Z has the same number. Almost half of adults over 65 said they made their best friends after the age of 35, with one in 20 holding onto relationships from six to 10 years old. According to the study, food continues to be a key ingredient to great friendships and spending time together, as almost half maintain contact by going out for brunch and breakfast with their friends. Ice cream tops the list as the ultimate friendship dessert; 27% of Brits say it would be their go-to with their best friend, followed by chocolate cake (20%) and cheesecake (16%). To put a spotlight on National Best Friends Day, Nutella erected an enormous 3.8m tall by 3.5m wide ice cream tub in Potters Field Park as an invitation for friends to snack together. Chiming in on the occasion, Gemma Mattison, spokesperson for Ferrero UK & Ireland, creators of the beloved spread, commented: "Best friends are the people we laugh with, lean on, and share life's little moments with - and that's something worth celebrating."
Glasgow Times
2 days ago
- Glasgow Times
When Bindweed flowers in UK and how to kill and remove it
Bindweed is one of the common plants that can flower and cause problems in your garden. While it may look pretty, it has been described by experts as "rampant" and can "quickly smother other plants in your garden". Here is all to know about Bindweed, including what it looks like, when it flowers in the UK, if it is poisonous and how to remove it. How to Get Rid of These Common Garden Pests What is Bindweed and what does it look like? Bindweed is a UK native wildflower, and while it can be beneficial to wildlife, its spreading roots and twining stems can cause issues in gardens. The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) highlights two types of common Bindweed, namely Hedge bindweed and Field Bindweed. Hedge Bindweed has heart-shaped leaves and funnel-shaped flowers. These are "usually white but can also be pale pink with a white centre and five white stripes". "After flowering, rounded capsules form, each containing up to four oval-shaped brown seeds," the RHS adds. Hedge Bindweed has heart-shaped leaves and funnel-shaped flowers (Image: Getty Images) Field Bindweed is described as "smaller and less vigorous", and has oval to arrow-shaped, grey-green leaves, with funnel-shaped flowers that are often pale pink, but can also be pink with a white centre and stripes, or plain white. When does Bindweed flower in the UK? Wildlife Trusts notes that Bindweed typically flowers between June and September. Despite Bindweed stems typically dying back in autumn, the root system remains and will be "ready to produce new shoots in spring". Nick Wood is a horticulture expert at online garden centre Gardening Express. He has issued a warning to Brits as we come into the seasons when Bindweed typically flowers. Arvensis: refers to plants typically found in, or associated with, fields or cultivated areas. From the Latin 'arvum' meaning field. Field Bindweed, Convolvulus arvensis. Leaves to 5cm, alternate with basal lobes. Flowers trumpet-shaped, white or pink and white, 1-3cm across. — Big Meadow Search (@bigmeadowsearch) March 22, 2025 He said: "Bindweed might look pretty with its delicate flowers and heart-shaped leaves, but don't be fooled - it's a rampant twining vine that can quickly smother other plants in your garden. "Hedge bindweed is the real culprit here, with its fast-growing, climbing stems that can wrap around and strangle anything in their path. "Field bindweed is less aggressive, but it's still a persistent problem, especially in open soil where it can spread rapidly. "While it's a native wildflower, its aggressive growth and spreading roots can quickly take over gardens and other natural areas, which is why it's incredibly invasive in the UK. Bindweed UK law Mr Wood added that while there is "no specific law directly addressing bindweed in the UK", Brits "all have a legal duty to manage invasive plants to prevent them from spreading and causing harm to neighbouring properties". The RHS adds that while you do not need to remove Bindweed from your garden, it can spread to other plants, so controlling it is key. @invasiveweeds Bindweed in Mid June with its Beautiful White Flowers Bindweed, also known as Convolvulus arvensis, is a common weed that produces beautiful white flowers during the summer months, including mid-June. Despite its attractive appearance, bindweed is considered an invasive plant that can be problematic in gardens and agricultural fields. #bindweed ♬ original sound - Invasive Weeds It said: "If left to grow in a wildlife corner or less-cultivated area, or through a mature hedge, it will boost the variety of living organisms (plants, animals, fungi and microorganisms) in a particular environment. "Boosting the biodiversity of your garden has many benefits, including supporting wildlife, improving soil health and reducing the likelihood of pest and disease problems. biodiversity of your garden and gives you a chance to enjoy its attractive flowers. "It is, however, a good idea to control the spread of hedge and field bindweed as they are both capable of outcompeting and smothering other plants." Is Bindweed poisonous? With Bindweed being very common in the UK, it is important to know if it is poisonous to humans or pets. Thankfully, unlike some other weeds in the UK, Bindweed is not poisonous. Poisonous Plants Found in the UK The expert explained: "Luckily, bindweed isn't poisonous to humans or pets, but it can be a nightmare for gardeners trying to keep it under control. This is despite the fact that its flowers can attract pollinators. "But don't let that fact lull you into letting it run wild - the damage it can do far outweighs any small benefit." Mr Wood also touched on how best to remove the invasive plant. Can you dig out Bindweed? How best to remove and kill it The expert warned Brits to "act quickly" if they find Bindweed in their garden. He also issued a guide on how to attack the plant and get rid of it. Bindweed can be a pest to properties as it grows fast and infiltrates property boundaries damaging the structure (Image: Getty Images) Mr Wood said: "Pull it up by hand, being careful to remove as much of the root system as possible. "If you leave even a tiny fragment behind, it can regrow and spread all over again. "You'll need patience and persistence, and be prepared to keep at it for several growing seasons. "Herbicides can work, but they often require multiple applications, and be careful not to damage nearby plants." If you are looking to dig out Bindweed, Mr Wood recommended against it. Recommended reading: He said: "You can try digging it out, but be warned - bindweed has a notoriously extensive root system. "If you miss even a tiny piece, it can regrow with a vengeance. Regular cutting and pulling can keep bindweed in check, but it's a long game. "Persistence is key, and whatever you do, don't let it flower - that's when it spreads even faster."
