Just as citrus fruits— oranges, in particular— brighten up a plate of food with its vibrant colors and tantalizing taste, the unassuming orange peels too carry within them surprising utility and benefits. Often discarded as waste, these peels can be harnessed in several ingenious ways, acting as a secret ingredient for a clean, fresh-smelling kitchen.
Unlock the power of orange peels in your kitchen
The moment you bear an image of oranges in your mind, the intuitive image is likely to be of the vibrant citrus bursting with refreshing, tangy juices. However, the peel—often discarded and overlooked—offers a creative, sustainable solution to cleaning woes and casting a delightful citrus sensation all over your kitchen.
To activate orange peels’ cleaning power, start with removing all the pith (the white stuff on the back of the peel) using a spoon. Next, pop the peels into a jar, cover it with white vinegar, and allow it to infuse for up to two weeks. After this period, strain the solution into a spray bottle. There you have it—your homemade, eco-friendly kitchen cleaner laden with the aroma of citrus!
How does it work?
The pith is removed primarily because it invites bitterness in flavor, which is not conducive to creating a pleasant scent. The white vinegar integrates with the orange peel to break down grease, harnessing the power of citrus oil known for its excellent cleaning properties. Now, this orange-vinegar solution can spritz life into your dull countertops, cutting boards, and even remove stubborn water stains.
Orange peel simmer pot for a freshness overload
While an impeccably clean kitchen is a sight to behold, the olfactory experience completes the charm. Another fantastic orange peel hack lies in casting an enchanting, fresh aroma all around your cooking space.
Simply gather some orange peels, toss them into a pot of boiling water with some cloves and cinnamon. This simmer pot acts as a natural air freshener, filling your kitchen with a gentle, soothing aroma of spiced citrus.
Why do this?
When the peels are simmered, they release their oils into the air—oils that are refreshing and invigorating. Therefore, while your orange simmer pot effuses a heartwarming scent, it simultaneously purges stale cooking odors, leaving the air fresh and light.
Our kitchens indeed evoke a variety of sensory experiences, and the orange peel hacks ensure that these experiences are as lively, fresh, and sustainable as possible. By re-purposing what would otherwise be citrus waste, we are not only contributing to a greener earth but also discovering delightful ways to enjoy the unassuming orange peels that brim with potential. Every meal cooked, every shared gathering, and every single moment spent in the kitchen is therefore not only enjoyable but also sustainably conscious and incredibly rewarding.
Emma Johnson is a passionate and insightful writer specializing in the house and garden niche, bringing over a decade of experience to her readers. At the youthful age of 34, Emma has already established herself as a leading voice in home improvement, landscaping, and interior design. Her journey began with a degree in Landscape Architecture from the University of Georgia, followed by years of hands-on experience working with renowned landscaping firms across the country.
Emma’s writing career took off when she started sharing her unique ideas and eco-friendly gardening tips on her personal blog. Her ability to blend practical advice with aesthetic design quickly garnered attention, leading to her current position as a featured columnist for a prominent online news site.
Dedicated to sustainable living and innovative design, Emma’s articles offer a wealth of knowledge, from DIY home projects to the latest trends in garden technology. Her work not only enlightens homeowners looking to enhance their living spaces but also inspires a deeper appreciation for the environment.
When she’s not writing or experimenting in her own garden, Emma enjoys mentoring young designers and participating in community beautification projects. Her contributions extend beyond her written work, embodying her commitment to making the world a more beautiful and sustainable place, one home at a time.