Sunshine in a Slice

Liam hummed quietly as he scrubbed the kitchen counter, the morning sunlight catching the streaks of water he’d just wiped away. His cleaning ritual had become almost meditative, but lately, he had a new companion: a small basket of fresh lemons on the counter.

He picked up one and sliced it in half, the sharp citrus scent filling the air instantly. It wasn’t just pleasant—it was powerful. A few rubs of the lemon directly on the cutting board erased stubborn stains and odors from garlic and onions. A sprinkle of salt with the lemon worked wonders on metal sinks, making them sparkle as if new.

Liam loved experimenting. He squeezed lemon juice into a spray bottle with water, creating a natural, non-toxic cleaner for his counters. The smell alone lifted his mood; it was like bringing a little sunshine indoors. Lemon’s natural acidity made it great for breaking down grease, disinfecting surfaces, and leaving everything smelling fresh without relying on harsh chemicals.

But he had learned a few cautions along the way. Lemon juice could dull certain stone countertops, like marble or granite, so he avoided them. And if he left lemon juice on his hands too long, it could dry his skin. Still, these small warnings didn’t deter him—he just adjusted his approach.

As he wiped down the stove one final time, Liam felt a sense of satisfaction. Cleaning wasn’t a chore when he had lemons nearby. The bright scent, the natural shine they left behind, and the simple act of caring for his home made the task feel almost joyful.

He smiled, tossing the empty lemon halves into the compost bin. Sunshine, it seemed, could be held in a slice.

---

✅ Benefits of Lemon for Cleaning:

• Natural disinfectant and degreaser.

• Brightens and removes stains from cutting boards and sinks.

• Adds a refreshing, clean scent to any room.

• Can be used in homemade sprays with water or vinegar.

⚠️ What to Look Out For:

• Can damage stone surfaces like marble or granite.

• Can dry out skin if handled too long.

• Avoid mixing too much with bleach, as it may create harmful fumes.