Apples are often called nature’s perfect fruit crisp, sweet, and packed with nutrients that boost your health. But the shiny red apples you see in markets might not be as natural as they appear. To make them look fresh and appealing, many sellers coat apples with wax and artificial coloring.

While this glossy layer enhances appearance, it can also trap pesticides, dust, and bacteria, making the fruit unsafe to eat without proper cleaning. The good news is that you can easily remove these coatings at home using simple kitchen ingredients.

Here are six effective ways to clean apples naturally:

1. Baking Soda Soak

Fill a bowl with warm water and add one teaspoon of baking soda. Soak the apples for 10–15 minutes, then rub gently under running water. This method helps remove both wax and pesticide residue effectively.

2. Vinegar Solution

Mix one to two teaspoons of vinegar in a bowl of water and soak the apples for about 15 minutes. Then rinse thoroughly. The vinegar helps kill bacteria and dissolve the wax coating.

🧂 3. Saltwater Rinse

Add a teaspoon of salt to a bowl of warm water and soak the apples for 10 minutes. Rinse with fresh water afterward to remove any remaining wax or chemical traces.

4. Lemon–Baking Soda Spray

Combine lemon juice, baking soda, and water in a spray bottle. Spritz the solution on the apples, let it sit for a minute, then rinse. This natural cleaner removes dirt, wax, and microbes effectively.

5. Warm–Cold Water Method

Dip apples briefly in warm (not boiling) water for 5–10 seconds, wipe them with a clean cloth, and rinse with cold water. The warmth helps melt the wax, while the cold rinse keeps the apples firm and fresh.

 6. Brush Under Running Water

Hold each apple under running tap water and gently scrub with a soft brush for 20–30 seconds. This simple method removes surface wax, dirt, and residue.