To Avoid Domestics (Recipe from 1881) >>> Colonist, Volume XXV, Issue 2998, 1 November 1881,…
Washing Whiter Clothes (Recipe from 1911)

Washing Whiter Clothes (Recipe from 1911) >>>
New Zealand Herald, Volume XLVIII, Issue 14739, 22 July 1911, Page 6 (Supplement)
Here is a modernized version of the instructions from the image:
How to Whiten Clothes with Lemon in a wood-fired Copper:
When boiling white clothes, add slices of lemon (with the rind) into the water. The lemon helps brighten the fabric and remove stains, especially from items like handkerchiefs and children’s pinafores. Simply slice the lemon and place it in the pot or boiler with the clothes. Let the lemon stay in the water throughout the boiling process until the clothes are ready to come out.
Traditional Pinafore Apron: A protective apron-like garment, usually worn by children or housekeepers, to keep clothes clean while playing or working.
Lemon Method for Whitening in the Washing Machine:
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Prepare the Lemon:
Slice 1-2 fresh lemons, keeping the rind on. -
Place in a Mesh Bag:
Put the lemon slices into a mesh laundry bag or tightly tied muslin/cloth bag to prevent pieces from scattering. -
Load the Machine:
Add your white clothes to the washing machine as usual. -
Add the Lemon Bag:
Toss the bag of lemon slices into the drum with the clothes. -
Wash Cycle:
Run a hot water cycle (if safe for your fabrics). The heat helps release the lemon’s natural bleaching agents. -
Optional Boost:
For extra whitening, you can add half a cup of baking soda or white vinegar to the wash. -
Dry as Usual:
Remove the lemon bag after washing and dry your clothes as normal.
Notes:
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Best for cottons and linens — always check fabric care labels first.
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Lemon is a natural alternative to bleach but gentler on fabrics.