10 Creative Ways To Reuse Orange Peel

Orange is one of the citrus fruits that we like to consume the most, not only for its pleasant taste but also because it is an excellent source of vitamin C and essential minerals. But we almost always get rid of the orange peel because we think it has no use.

The truth is that the peel of this citrus fruit has many properties, and we can take advantage of them in multiple ways at home with a little creativity. Do you want to know how?

Tricks to reuse the orange peel

1. A scented candle

Due to its strong citrus scent, orange peel is a base for making scented candles to decorate the home.

How to do it?

• Cut the upper part of the orange and extract its pulp without breaking the peel.
• Then fill halfway with candle wax and put a wick on it.

2. Polishing the stainless steel

The citric acid found in these peels is a good agent for  polishing and sanitizing various stainless steel surfaces.

How to use?

• Cut the orange peel and rub the inside on the sinks, taps and other elements of this material.

3. Multipurpose cleaner

Combining the properties of this citrus with the benefits of vinegar we can create a multipurpose cleaner to disinfect the house and remove stains.

The product will have a powerful antibacterial and stain remover effect that will serve as an alternative to the aggressive chemicals on the market.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of white vinegar (250 ml)
• 2 orange peels

How to do it?

• Pour the white vinegar into a jar and add the orange peels.
• Put it in a dark place for a week and start using it.
• Add the liquid to a spray bottle to make it easier for you to apply.

4. Natural flavoring

This is one of the most interesting and common uses to  take advantage of the qualities of orange peel.

How to do it?

• Grate the peel and use it to give a better flavor to meats, desserts or cakes.

• You can also include it in tea and smoothies.

5. Repellent against mosquitoes

Mosquitoes and many other insects are sensitive to strong odors from citrus fruits.

Taking advantage of this, you can make a homemade and ecological repellent to keep them away when you are in the field or another outdoor space.

How to do it?

• Hang several orange peels near where you are.
• If you prefer, make a tea with this ingredient and let the steam drive away the insects.

6. Ecological air freshener

This popular eco-friendly air freshener is also known as a pomander or spiked orange , and in addition to releasing good smell, it is said to purify the home environment.

Ingredients

• 1 orange with its peel
• 20 whole cloves

How to do it?

• All you have to do is stick a lot of cloves into the orange until it is covered.
• Then, put it in a strategic place in the house so that it gives off its aroma.

7. Biodegradable bird feeder

If the orange peel is thick you can make this interesting biodegradable feeder for birds (very decorative for the garden).

How to do it?

• You just have to carefully cut the orange so as not to damage the peel, and then put a little string on it to hang it on a branch.
• Add the bird food and you’re done.

8. Shoe deodorant

The citrus aroma is an ideal agent to neutralize bad odors that are concentrated in footwear by moisture and bacteria.

How to use them?

• Cut the skin of this fruit into several pieces and put them inside the shoes.
• Leave it overnight and remove them before you put them on.

9. Natural sponge

Fresh peels contain essential oils that can be used to remove grease in pots and pans.

How to use it?

• Rather than wear yourself down with a regular sponge, rub the peels over greased surfaces and rinse.

10. Scrub

The advantages of applying this ingredient to the skin is that it helps control excess oil production, eliminates dead cells and reduces the presence of blemishes.

Ingredients

• 1 orange peel
• 1 teaspoon of rose water (5 ml)

How to do it?

• Grate the orange peel and moisten it with a teaspoon of rose water.
• Apply the product with gentle circular massages and leave it to act for 5 minutes.
• Repeat its use twice a week.
• Avoid exposing yourself to the sun after using it.

In conclusion, that part of the orange that we have wasted for so long is actually a good solution for various tasks around the house.

Go ahead and try all these tricks and make it one of your favorite ingredients.