EFFECTIVENESS OF ORANGE PEEL FLOOR WAX AS AN ALTERNATIVE TO COMMERCIAL FLOOR WAX

Abstract

Many commercial floor waxes contain a significant amount of synthetic compounds that may pose risks to both the environment and human health. These products have been associated with skin irritation, allergic reactions, eye irritation, and potential toxicity if ingested. As concerns over chemical exposure increase, there is growing interest in natural alternatives. This study aimed to determine whether an orange peel–based floor wax could perform comparably to commercial floor wax in terms of durability, shine, ease of application, cost, and environmental impact. The research sought to utilize the natural properties of orange peel to develop an environmentally friendly cleaning product. This study employed an experimental approach to produce a floor wax derived from orange peel. The process involved extracting active compounds from orange peels by melting candle wax, adding orange peel, stirring the mixture, filtering it, incorporating kerosene, cooling the mixture, and sealing it in plastic containers. The resulting floor wax was then applied to floor surfaces, and observations were made regarding adhesion, longevity, and overall performance. Data were systematically gathered to assess the effectiveness of the orange peel–based floor wax. The findings revealed that orange peel demonstrated strong potential as an alternative floor wax. Due to its natural oil content, orange peel effectively functioned as both a polishing agent and a protective layer for flooring. The results indicated that the orange peel floor wax performed well in terms of durability and shine, suggesting that it may serve as a financially viable and environmentally friendly alternative to commercial floor wax products. The study demonstrated that orange peel can be a viable alternative to commercial floor wax. Orange peel extracts contain natural oils and citrus fragrance with antibacterial properties, making the product safer for indoor use, particularly in households with children or pets. Additionally, orange peel floor wax offers a more sustainable and eco-friendly option compared to chemical-based waxes. However, further research is recommended to evaluate the long-term durability and effectiveness of orange peel wax under real-world conditions. Overall, this study contributes to efforts to reduce chemical usage in cleaning products and highlights the importance of exploring natural solutions for environmental and public health.