Citrus Detox Water

This simple infused water is such a fun way to make hydration feel special. Instead of plain water, you get a pitcher filled with bright lemon, orange, and lime slices plus fresh rosemary, which makes your whole kitchen smell incredible.

I love making a big pitcher in the morning so it is ready and chilled whenever I need a refill. It looks pretty on the table, feels a little fancy without any real effort, and is easy to customize with whatever citrus you have on hand. It is also a great way to swap out soda or juice for something lighter that still feels like a treat.

Before You Get Started

Here are a few helpful things to know before you start so your detox water turns out bright and flavorful every time.

• Use a glass pitcher: Glass or clear jars work best for infused water so flavors stay clean, and you can see the pretty citrus slices.
• Slice, don’t squeeze: Slice the citrus into rounds instead of squeezing all the juice in, which keeps the flavor light, fresh, and not overly tart.
• Use cold, fresh water: Filtered or fresh cold water gives the best flavor for sipping throughout the day.

How to Make Citrus Detox Water

Here is a simple step-by-step overview so you know exactly what to expect.

1. Slice the Citrus and Rosemary

Thinly slice the lemon, orange, and lime into rounds and gently rinse the rosemary sprigs. This helps the flavors release into the water without needing any extra work.

2. Add Everything to a Pitcher

Place the citrus slices and rosemary into a large glass pitcher. Arrange them loosely so the water can circulate around the fruit and herbs.

3. Pour in the Water

Add the water to the pitcher, making sure the citrus and rosemary are submerged. Give it a gentle stir to start the infusion.

4. Chill and Infuse

Refrigerate for at least 45 minutes so the flavors can steep. The flavor gets stronger over a few hours, so you can easily make this ahead to sip on all day.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Here are the best tips and tricks to make this citrus detox water come out perfectly every single time.

• Try different citrus combos: Add grapefruit, extra lemon, or blood orange for a twist on the classic citrus flavor.
• Boost the flavor: Lightly muddle or press a few citrus slices and rosemary sprigs before adding water if you want a stronger taste.
• Make a fruit medley: Mix in berries, cucumber slices, or pineapple for extra color and a more complex flavor.
• Choose your fruits and/or vegetables: Cucumber, celery, lemon, blackberries, strawberries, orange, grapefruit, limes, watermelon, apples, cantaloupe, kiwi, pineapple, pears, or mango are all great options.
• Grab some fresh herbs: Mint, cilantro, basil, thyme, rosemary, fennel, Thai basil, lemongrass, lemon balm, ginger, turmeric, or dill are all popular. Dried herbs can also work, but the flavor will not be as refreshing.
• Consider these boosts: Get creative with fun additions like cayenne pepper, black pepper, apple cider vinegar, chia seeds, cinnamon, Himalayan salt, aloe vera, liquid probiotics, coconut kefir, or lavender.
• Add sweetener: you can add some honey, maple syrup, Stevia, or monkfruit to the water. Just know that this will affect the nutritional stats of the recipe and can make it less healthy.

Storage & Reheating

Here is how to store and use your infused water safely and deliciously.

• Store (fridge): Keep the pitcher covered in the refrigerator for 3–5 days. If you are only using citrus and herbs, it may last up to a week.
• Store (freezer): Do not freeze the full pitcher, but you can freeze leftover infused water in ice cube trays to add to future drinks.