Wait! Before you throw away that orange peel, consider repurposing it for handy use around the house. Citrus peels of all kinds have a wonderful smell and hidden powers that make them great for little projects. Here are 12 ways to repurpose that peel.
Improve your trash can smell
Toss a few peels at the bottom of your can for a cheap and easy fresher smell.
Firestarter
Dried-out peels make great fire starters for your next camping trip or even a backyard fire pit. Leave them out to dry at room temperature or dry them in the oven at a low temperature.
DIY breath freshener
Chewing on some of the pith, the white part of a fresh peel is a quick trick for fresher breath.
Boost your bath time
The essential oils in citrus peels have been linked to increased mood. Toss a couple in next time you take a relaxing soak.
Garnish your drink
Dried peels are a delicious and visually appealing addition to a cup of tea or cocktail. Just scrape off as much of the pith as you can before drying.
Household cleaner
Soaking citrus peels in vinegar for a couple of weeks and then mixing with equal parts water makes a great household cleaner without the strong vinegar smell.
Seasoning
Grind up dried lemon peels and combine with pepper and salt for a homemade lemon pepper seasoning.
Air freshener
Love that citrus smell? Boil peels in the water on your stovetop for a better-smelling home.
A great recipe addition
Candied citrus peels last for months and are delicious in drinks, baked goods, or just on their own.
Body scrubs
Grind up dried peels and add them to sugar, salt, or coffee body scrub for a great smell and added vitamin C health benefits.
Cocktail addition
Commonly used in an old-fashioned, soaking citrus peels in sugar and then pressing them to release oils is a fancy and delicious addition to quarantine cocktail hour.
Drawer freshener
Much like lavender, citrus peels can be dried and placed in an old sock or sachet in your drawers to give your clothes a beautifully fresh citrus scent.
