Lemon peels are often discarded, but they are packed with powerful natural benefits and versatile uses beyond just cooking. Instead of tossing them in the trash, try these 12 unusual and practical ways to use lemon peels around your home and life.
### 1. **Natural Air Freshener**
Simmer lemon peels with water and herbs like rosemary or cinnamon on the stove to freshen the air in your home naturally and pleasantly.
### 2. **DIY Lemon Vinegar Cleaner**
Infuse vinegar with lemon peels for 2 weeks, then strain and use it as an eco-friendly, powerful all-purpose cleaner.
### 3. **Pest Repellent**
Place lemon peels near doors, windows, or in your garden to keep ants, mosquitoes, and other pests away.
### 4. **Zesty Sugar Scrub**
Mix chopped lemon peels with sugar and coconut oil for a refreshing exfoliating body scrub that leaves your skin soft and glowing.
### 5. **Garbage Disposal Deodorizer**
Toss lemon peels into your garbage disposal and run water to eliminate odors and clean the blades.
### 6. **Brighten Dull Clothes**
Boil lemon peels in water and soak white clothes to naturally brighten and remove stains.
### 7. **Infused Olive Oil**
Add lemon peels to olive oil jars for a zesty flavor boost to your salads and cooking.
### 8. **Boost Your Compost**
Add lemon peels to your compost pile for added nutrients and to help reduce pests.
### 9. **Make Candied Lemon Peels**
Boil lemon peels in sugar syrup to make a delicious, tangy treat or garnish for desserts.
### 10. **Freshen Your Fridge**
Place dried lemon peels in a small container inside your fridge to absorb unwanted odors.
### 11. **DIY Lemon Peel Tea**
Dry the peels and brew them into a tea rich in antioxidants and vitamin C.
### 12. **Soothe Sore Throats**
Boil lemon peels with ginger and honey to create a soothing, natural remedy for sore throats and colds.