Alternative Uses for Citrus Peels & Onion Skins
Instead of tossing citrus peels π and onion skins π§ into the trash, try these eco-friendly, practical, and creative uses! They have powerful nutrients, natural cleaning properties, and even beauty benefits.
π Citrus Peels (Lemon, Orange, Lime, Grapefruit)
1️⃣ Natural Cleaning Solutions π§Ό
✅ Citrus Vinegar Cleaner – Soak citrus peels in white vinegar for two weeks to create an all-purpose natural cleaner.
✅ Microwave Deodorizer – Place peels in a bowl of water and microwave for 1–2 minutes to remove odors.
✅ Garbage Disposal Freshener – Toss peels into the garbage disposal and grind them to eliminate bad smells.
2️⃣ Beauty & Skincare π♀️
✅ DIY Citrus Scrub – Dry and grind peels, then mix with sugar and coconut oil for an exfoliating body scrub.
✅ Brightening Face Mask – Mix citrus peel powder with honey and yogurt for a natural glow.
✅ Teeth Whitener – Rub the inside of an orange peel on your teeth for a natural whitening effect.
3️⃣ Home & Garden Uses πΏ
✅ Air Freshener & Potpourri – Simmer peels in water with cinnamon and cloves for a natural home fragrance.
✅ Natural Pest Repellent – Scatter dried citrus peels in gardens or near windows to repel ants and mosquitoes.
✅ Compost Booster – Chop into small pieces before adding to compost (use sparingly to avoid high acidity).
4️⃣ Cooking & Food Uses π½
✅ Homemade Citrus Zest – Dry and grind peels to use as a seasoning for baked goods, salads, and teas.
✅ Flavored Water & Tea – Add peels to water or tea for a refreshing citrus twist.
✅ Infused Olive Oil or Vinegar – Soak peels in olive oil or vinegar for a gourmet flavor boost.
π§ Onion Skins (Red, Yellow, White Onions, Shallots, Garlic Skins)
1️⃣ Nutrient-Packed Cooking Uses π₯£
✅ Vegetable Broth – Simmer onion skins in water for a nutrient-rich broth.
✅ Flavor Enhancer – Add to soups, stews, and rice while cooking for extra depth of flavor.
✅ Tea for Immune Support – Steep onion skins in hot water for a tea rich in quercetin, a powerful antioxidant.
2️⃣ Home & Garden Benefits π±
✅ Fertilizer for Plants – Soak onion skins in water overnight, then use as a nutrient-rich plant fertilizer.
✅ Natural Dye – Boil skins to create an organic dye for fabrics, Easter eggs, or paper crafts.
✅ Pest Repellent – Scatter around plants to deter insects and rodents in the garden.
3️⃣ Eco-Friendly & Miscellaneous Uses π
✅ Polish Metal Surfaces – Rub onion skins on stainless steel to restore shine.
✅ Hair Rinse for Strength & Shine – Brew onion skin tea and rinse hair with it to promote hair growth and shine.
✅ DIY Candle Dye – Add boiled onion skin extract to homemade candles for a warm, earthy color.
πΏ Final Tip: Both citrus peels and onion skins can be composted, but use them in moderation to avoid excess acidity in your compost bin!
♻ Reduce waste and make the most of these kitchen scraps with these creative uses! π±