Ways to Use Leftover Orange Peels to Save Money
Oranges are not only delicious and nutritious, but they also offer a wide range of uses beyond their juicy flesh. Don’t let those leftover orange peels go to waste! Instead, put them to good use and save some money in the process. Here are several creative ways you can utilize your leftover orange peels:
1. Homemade Citrus Cleaner: Store-bought cleaners can be expensive and filled with chemicals. Create your own natural citrus cleaner by infusing vinegar with orange peels. Simply place the peels in a jar, cover them with white vinegar, and let it sit for a couple of weeks. Strain the mixture into a spray bottle, dilute with water if desired, and use it as an all-purpose cleaner that will leave your house smelling fresh.
2. Zesty Tea: Orange peel tea is not only refreshing but also packed with vitamins and minerals. Dry out the peels by spreading them on a baking sheet or hanging them in bundles until crispy. Crush the dried peels into small pieces and store in an airtight container for future use as tea leaves.
3. Aromatic Potpourri: Fill your home with a delightful fragrance using dried orange peels as potpourri. Place dried orange peel slices along with cinnamon sticks, cloves, or other herbs in a decorative bowl or sachet bag. This homemade potpourri will add warmth to any room while saving you money compared to store-bought options.
4. Natural Air Freshener: Instead of relying on chemical-laden air fresheners, make your own natural version using orange peels and essential oils such as lavender or peppermint oil. Combine these ingredients in a mason jar with holes punched through the lid or tie them up in cheesecloth pouches for easy placement around your home.
5.Candied Treats: Turn those discarded orange peels into a deliciously sweet snack. Blanch the peels to remove bitterness, then simmer them in a simple syrup made from water and sugar until they become tender. Coat the candied peels in sugar or dip them in chocolate for an extra treat.
6. Citrus Vinegar Rinse: Give your hair a natural shine by using orange peel-infused vinegar as a hair rinse. Mix equal parts orange peel-infused vinegar with water and use it as an after-shampoo rinse or final hair rinse. This DIY solution will remove residue, leaving your locks looking lustrous without breaking the bank on pricey hair products.
7. Natural Pest Repellent: Keep unwanted pests away from your garden organically by placing orange peels near plants that are prone to attack. The strong citrus scent acts as a deterrent for insects while also nourishing the soil as they break down over time.
8. Homemade Orange Extract: Store-bought extracts can be costly, but you can easily make your own version using leftover orange peels and alcohol like vodka or rum. Place the peels in a glass jar, cover them with alcohol, and let it sit for several weeks, shaking occasionally. Strain out the peel remnants, transfer to a clean container, and now you have homemade orange extract ready to use in recipes.
Don’t discard those valuable orange peels anymore! Get creative and save money by utilizing these practical tips that not only reduce waste but also provide additional benefits beyond their initial use as fruit.
Leave a Reply