Lemon juice: a versatile pantry staple

Lemon Juice: Everyday Uses for Kitchen, Home & Garden

Zesty, tangy and wonderfully acidic, lemon juice is a true multitasker. From brightening flavours to freshening your home, here are practical ways to put it to work every day.

Culinary uses

1. Flavour enhancer: A splash of lemon adds brightness to salads, marinades, sauces and seafood, and balances sweetness in desserts.
2. Preservative: Its acidity helps prevent browning on cut fruit like apples, avocados and bananas.
3. Tenderiser: The acid gently breaks down proteins—marinate chicken, beef or fish with lemon, herbs and spices for extra succulence.
4. Baking helper: Lemon activates bicarbonate of soda for a better rise in cakes, muffins and breads; it also shines in glazes and frostings.

Health & beauty

1. Digestion-friendly warm drink: Many people enjoy warm water with lemon first thing to start the day on a refreshing note.
2. Skincare (diluted): Naturally astringent; use sparingly and always diluted. Patch test first and avoid sun exposure on treated skin.
3. Hair rinse: A diluted lemon rinse can help with scalp freshness and add shine; sunlight may gently lighten hair.

Cleaning & household uses

1. Natural cleaner: Cut grease and grime on worktops, chopping boards and stainless steel. Rinse surfaces after cleaning.
2. Deodoriser: Neutralise smells—place a small bowl in the fridge or refresh the sink with lemon down the disposal.
3. Stain lifter: Pre-treat rust or sweat marks by dabbing lemon on fabric before washing. Check colourfastness first.
4. Insect deterrent: A lemon–water spray can help discourage ants and mozzies around entry points.

Gardening & plant care

1. Weed control: Undiluted lemon can help scorch small weeds. Apply carefully to avoid nearby plants.
2. Soil pH tweak: For acid-loving plants (e.g., blueberries, azaleas), add a little lemon diluted in water to the soil occasionally.

Shop lemon juice

Versatile, affordable and naturally effective—lemon juice earns its place in the pantry and beyond.