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The most useful ways to use leftover fruit peel
When it comes to fruit, it’s easy to forget that peels have a purpose. After all, peels don’t usually taste good on their own, so they’re usually thrown in the bin without much thought. But what if we told you that there are useful and potentially health-promoting ways to use mundane fruit peels that you’ve probably never even heard of?
That’s right! Those fruit skins you’re throwing away could actually be improving your life in more ways than one. In fact, we’ve come up with 15 truly amazing ways to use fruit peels that will undoubtedly stop you from ever throwing them away again. From making cleaning easier to creating simple and delicious recipes, we promise you’ll find several ways to put those peels to good use. So, without further ado, let’s get started with our best tips for using leftover fruit peel.
Cleaning solution
Do you love DIY? Why not make your own cleaning solution? Use citrus peel to create a totally effective (and amazingly scented) cleaner that is as good for your dirty surfaces as it is for the environment.
To make a citrus cleaning solution, start by collecting your fruit peels. Oranges and lemons tend to work best, as they both have grease-fighting properties that make this DIY solution effective. Place your citrus peels in a glass jar with vinegar.
Now for the hard part. You will need to leave this solution to stand for at least two weeks. Once this long wait is over, strain your solution and you’re done. Pour your newfound liquid cleaner into an empty spray bottle and spray away. Bonus points for adding a few sprigs of fresh herbs to the mix – rosemary, thyme, sage and oregano are all excellent options that offer a great scent when combined with citrus.
Peel for dessert
If you’re an experienced home cook, you probably already know how dynamic adding a little zest to an already flavourful dessert can be. This unexpected but effective way of adding flavour to a dessert is a quick way to use lemon or orange zest, and you don’t have to worry about the extra liquid from using real citrus juice ruining your recipe.
There are plenty of desserts that call for zest, and even some savoury dishes that can benefit from it. So how do you peel fruit? It’s quite simple. You’ll want to take a fine hand grater and grate the peel. This is easier if the fruit is still completely intact, but you can get the same result using just the peel. Just be careful not to cut your fingers.
As you rub the fruit against the grater, tiny ‘flakes’ will fall off. These flakes are the “zest” that you’ll add to whatever recipe calls for it. Zesting works best with lemons, limes, oranges and other citrus fruits.
Body Scrub
Now here’s a hack that’s going to do your body some good: turn your unused fruit peels into a DIY body scrub. Yes, it’s true, you can finally stop wasting hundreds of dollars on expensive scrubs by making your own at home. Use your fruit peels in scrubs not only for aesthetic and scent purposes, but also for direct skin benefits. While you could technically use any type of peel in your body scrub, you should know that lemon and orange peels contain citric acid, which can help exfoliate the skin and promote a smooth and youthful appearance.
To make a fruit peel body scrub, simply combine the peel of the fruit with sugar and a little oil. Stir the mixture together and voila. You’ve got a body scrub that will improve your complexion and smooth the skin all over your body. How great is that?
Shoe shine
Don’t look at us like that. Banana peels really do make an excellent shoe shine, even if they do make you look a bit weird. Because bananas are packed with potassium, they actually make leather look great. In fact, potassium is the main ingredient in many commercial leather polishes. So it stands to reason that using a banana peel would produce similar results, and for a lot less money, we might add.
To use this strangely effective remedy, simply eat a banana (that’s the fun part, right?), then take the banana peel and turn it inside out. Rub the inside of the peel against the outside of your leather shoes. When you’ve finished polishing your shoes with your morning snack, grab a clean, dry washcloth to wipe off any remaining banana residue.
Step back and enjoy the benefits of freshly shined shoes.
Refreshing tea
Did you know that fruit peel can be used to make a delicious and refreshing tea? It’s true! Instead of throwing those citrus peels away, why not turn them into a fragrant tea that can be enjoyed hot or cold.
To make zest tea, simply collect the citrus zest of your choice, such as orange, lemon or grapefruit. Rinse them thoroughly to remove any dirt or residue. Then place the peels in a saucepan with water and bring to the boil. Simmer for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavours to infuse.
Once the tea has infused, strain the peel and pour the liquid into a cup. You can add honey or a sweetener of your choice to enhance the flavour. Sip this aromatic tea for a refreshing and invigorating experience.
Aromatic Potpourri
If you’re looking to freshen up your home with a natural and pleasant scent, fruit peels can come to the rescue. Instead of relying on synthetic air fresheners, consider making your own aromatic potpourri from leftover fruit peels.
Collect a variety of fruit peels, such as orange, lemon, lime and apple. Cut the peels into small pieces and place them in a bowl. Add a few drops of essential oils, such as lavender or eucalyptus, to enhance the fragrance. Mix the peels and oils together and leave to dry for a few days.
When the peel is dry, you can display it in a decorative bowl or bag. The natural citrus and fruity scents will permeate the air, creating a fresh and inviting atmosphere in your home.
Flavoured infused vinegar
Infused vinegar can add a burst of flavour to your culinary creations. By using fruit peels, you can create your own unique infused vinegar that can be used in dressings, marinades or even as a tangy ingredient in various recipes.
Choose your favourite fruit peels, such as lemon, lime or apple, and place them in a clean glass jar. Fill the jar with white or apple cider vinegar, making sure the peel is completely submerged. Close the jar tightly and leave in a cool, dark place for a few weeks to allow the flavours to develop.
When the vinegar has developed the desired flavour, strain the peels and transfer the infused vinegar to a bottle for easy use. The tangy and fruity notes of the vinegar will add depth and complexity to your dishes, taking your culinary creations to new heights.
Natural Insect Repellent
Say goodbye to pesky insects with a natural and chemical-free repellent made from fruit peels. Citrus peels in particular contain compounds that bugs find repulsive, making them an effective and environmentally friendly way to keep insects at bay.
To make a fruit peel repellent, collect citrus peels such as orange, lemon or grapefruit. Rub the inside of the peel on your skin, concentrating on areas prone to insect bites, such as arms and legs. The scent of the peel will act as a natural deterrent to keep mosquitoes and other insects away.
Alternatively, you can place dried fruit peels in sachets and hang them in areas where you want to repel insects, such as near windows or outdoor seating areas. The natural aroma will deter bugs from entering your space, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors without the annoyance of insect bites.
Homemade pot cleaner
Tired of stubborn stains and residue on your pots and pans? Fruit peels can come to the rescue again! The natural acids in certain fruit peels have mild abrasive properties that can help remove tough stains and grime.
To make a homemade pot cleaner, collect citrus peels such as lemon, lime or grapefruit. Sprinkle a little salt or baking soda on the stained surface of the pot, then use the inside of the peel to scrub the area in a circular motion. The combination of citrus oils and mild abrasiveness will help break up the stains and leave your pots clean and shiny.
After scrubbing, rinse the pot thoroughly with water to remove any residue. Say goodbye to stubborn stains and hello to sparkling cookware!
Infused oils for cooking
Infused oils can add a burst of flavour to your cooking endeavours. By combining fruit peels with your favourite oils, you can create unique and aromatic blends that will take your dishes to the next level.
Choose your favourite fruit peels, such as lemon, orange or lime, and place them in a clean glass jar. Fill the jar with the oil of your choice, such as olive oil or grapeseed oil, making sure the peel is completely submerged. Close the jar tightly and leave in a cool, dark place for a few weeks to allow the flavours to infuse.
FAQS
Can I use any type of fruit peel for these tips?
While many fruit peels can be used, citrus peels such as lemon, orange and lime are particularly versatile and are often recommended for the tips in this article.
How long can I keep the citrus peel cleaning solution?
The citrus cleaning solution can be stored for several months in a properly sealed container. However, it’s best to use it within a reasonable time frame to ensure its effectiveness.
Can I use only organic fruit peels?
While using organic fruit peels is ideal to minimise exposure to pesticides, you can still use peels from non-organic fruits. Just make sure you wash them thoroughly before using them in any of the suggested ways.
Are there any special safety precautions I should take when using fruit peels?
When using fruit peels, take care to avoid allergic reactions or skin irritations. In addition, follow any specific instructions or warnings given in the article for each individual use.
Can I freeze fruit peels for future use?
Yes, you can freeze fruit skins if you don’t plan to use them immediately. Make sure they are properly sealed in an airtight container or freezer bag to keep them fresh and prevent freezer burn.
Are there any fruit peels that should not be used for these purposes?
While most fruit peels are safe to use, it’s generally recommended to avoid using peels from fruits that are known to have toxic or harmful properties, such as apple seeds or the peels of certain tropical fruits. Always research the specific fruit peel before using it in any of the ways suggested.