7 Surprising Ways to Uses Citrus Peels You’re About to Toss

Oranges, lemons, limes: we juice them, we slice them for drinks and desserts. But what on earth can you do with all those peels? Do you know that you are actually missing out on a lot by throwing lemon peels away! There are plenty of ways to put these leftover peels to work. Here are 7 amazing uses for citrus peels you probably didn’t know.

1. Make your coffee pot look like new

Citrus peels, especially lemon peels are great for removing stains and water marks in your coffee pot. Add lemon peel (lemon wedges work too), ice and coarse salt to coffee pots and whirl it around. This will help remove any difficult water spots and coffee stains.

2. Clean Pots and Pans

It’s also possible to clean pots and pans directly with the peel. Just rub the peels on your pots and pans. Citrus peels contain oil called D-limonene which is a powerful solvent for dirt and especially grease. You’ll notice that the lemon brings back that sparkly shine to your dishware.

3. Beat Back Pests

Is your home constantly being invaded by pesky insects like ants, roaches, and fleas? Fortunately, Lemon peels are their natural enemy – somehow, these pests do not really like the smell of lemon and will avoid it at all costs. You can spray it directly on the bug. Or Place small slices of lemon peel along thresholds, windowsills, door entrances, or near cracks or holes where ants or pests are lurking about.

4. Homemade Air Freshener

Simmer oranges and a few spices in water on your stove top, and scent your home the healthy way with this air freshener recipe. This is an all-natural alternative to other artificial air fresheners on the market that leave your home SMELLING fresh and clean.

5. Sanitize your cutting board

Lemon’s natural acidity provides great antibacterial properties to home cleaning. After properly cleaning your cutting boards, rub the surface with half a lemon. Let it sit for a couple of minutes before rinsing. It’s not a good thing to have harmful bacteria to grow on your cutting board, so making sure it is cleaned effectively is very important.

6. Freshen your Fridge

Simply place a whole lemon peel or two inside your fridge to absorb ordors and enjoy the citrus fresh scent it brings to the entire room.

7. Natural Beauty Products

The natural acid in the lemon makes it perfect for not only cleaning products, but for a variety of skin care as well. Orange peel has tons of vitamin C that keep away acne and dark spots, as well as brighten and tone your skin. Mix citrus peels with coconut oil or curd and apply on your skin.