How to Use a Citrus Press for Fresh Juice

By Herzlich Willkommen bei Westmark | Published: 2026-10-19

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to use a manual citrus press to get the most juice from lemons, limes, and oranges. Step-by-step tips for easy squeezing and cleanup.

Quick Answer

To use a manual citrus press, cut the fruit in half, place it cut-side down on the reamer, and press down while twisting to extract maximum juice. Strain if you prefer pulp-free juice, then rinse the press immediately.

Why a Manual Citrus Press Beats Electric Juicers

Manual citrus presses are simple, quiet, and easy to clean. They give you full control over how much pressure you apply, so you can extract just the right amount of juice without over-squeezing bitter pith. They also take up less counter space and are more affordable than electric models.

For occasional juicing or small batches, a manual press is often all you need. If you juice citrus daily or in large quantities, an electric juicer might save time, but it comes with more parts to clean and a higher price tag.

Choosing the Right Citrus Press

Look for a press with a sturdy base and a comfortable handle. A glass body, like the Westmark Citrus Press, offers a classic look and is easy to clean. A large capacity (250 ml) means you can juice multiple fruits without emptying the reservoir as often.

Consider the size of the reamer: a larger reamer works well for oranges, while a smaller one is better for lemons and limes. Some presses come with interchangeable reamers for different fruit sizes.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Citrus Press

Prepare the fruit: Roll the citrus fruit on the counter with gentle pressure to soften it, then cut it in half crosswise (through the equator). This helps release more juice. Rolling the fruit before cutting can increase juice yield by up to 20%.
Position the fruit on the press: Place the fruit cut-side down on the reamer (the pointed cone). Align it so the center of the fruit sits directly over the reamer tip. Make sure the fruit is centered to avoid slipping and to ensure even pressure.
Press down and twist: Bring the handle down firmly, then twist the fruit back and forth while applying pressure. This action grinds the pulp and releases the juice into the reservoir below. Continue until you feel the fruit is mostly dry. Stop pressing when the fruit feels dry to avoid extracting bitter oils from the peel.
Strain if desired: If you prefer pulp-free juice, pour the freshly squeezed juice through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth. For more pulp, skip this step. Straining removes seeds and large pulp pieces for a smoother drink.
Clean immediately: Rinse the glass reservoir and reamer under warm water right after use. For a deeper clean, wash with mild dish soap and a soft sponge. Avoid abrasive scrubbers that could scratch the glass. Cleaning right away prevents dried pulp from sticking and makes the next use easier.

Product Spotlight

Citrus press, glass, huge, 250 ml: This Westmark citrus press is crafted from glass and offers a generous capacity of 250 ml, making it a practical addition to your kitchen for extracting fresh juice from lemons, limes, or oranges. The large capacity means you can juice several fruits before needing to empty the glass, which speeds up your juicing routine.
Citrus press, glass, huge, 250 ml