Citrus season is upon us, adding brightness to dull winter days. They’re full of vitamins, minerals, and fiber that nourish our bodies, and their peels also pack a useful punch! Β Since they are so often discarded, we’re sharing simple ways to upcycle your citrus peels for a variety of household uses.
In the Kitchen
Citrus peels are completely edible and delicious, but if you do plan to consume the peels, be sure to wash thoroughly under warm water and scrub lightly with a vegetable brush. Simply adding a twist or zest to your mocktail or hot tea is a great way to reap the benefits of extra vitamin C and flavor. You can also:
- Freeze or dry citrus zest for use later
- Citrus infused salt or sugar for adding freshness to your favorite recipes
- Make marmalade
- Infuse oil and vinegars
- Brew citrus extracts or make simple syrup
- Clean and freshen your garbage disposal
- Deodorize your microwave
- Spot Remover β add lemon peel to your dishwasher to help keep glassware and silverware spot-free and freshen the dishwasher
- Use as a metal polish, wipe down chrome faucets with a lemon wedge to remove spots. For brass, copper or stainless steel, you can dip the wedge in baking soda or salt before rubbing it over the item.
- Make candied citrus peels, recipe below
Succade Recipe
Succade or candied citrus peel has an aromatic flavor and is often used in baking, as a decoration for cakes and cookies, or as a treat. This candied orange peel recipe can be used to make any variety of candied citrus peel, including orange, lemon, lime, and grapefruit. They’re even better dipped in dark chocolate!
What You’ll Need:
- Peels 2 large oranges, including the pith, cut into strips
- 3 cups water
- 3 cups sugar + 1 reserved
- Saucepan
- Parchment paper or wax paper
Instructions:
Boil strips of citrus peels for 15 minutes, drain, and rinse. Combine 3 cups of water and 3 cups of sugar in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Add the peels, bring to a boil again, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 45 minutes until the peels are soft. Toss the coated peels in another cup of sugar, then separate them on parchment or wax paper to dry for a day or two.
Around The House
- Keep pests off houseplants
- Soak in hot water and add to mop water to keep bugs and other pests away
- Make stovetop potpourri β simmer citrus peels, cinnamon sticks, and herbs in a few inches of water to freshen your whole house
- Dry citrus peels, grind, and add to body wash for a DIY exfoliating scrub
- Use dried peels as fire starters
- Make DIY cleaners, recipe below
DIY Citrus Multi-Purpose Cleaning Spray
What You’ll Need:
- Clean 32oz. glass spray bottle (we recommend glass because the acid from the citrus and essential oils can cause plastic to break down)
- Peels of 4 lemons or 2 large oranges (or some of each!)
- White vinegar
- Distilled water
- Essential oils (optional)
Instructions:
- Save your citrus peels the next time you’re cooking or snacking and place them in a glass jar. Cover with white vinegar and seal. Store in a cool, dark place for 2-4 weeks, shaking occasionally.
- Strain citrus and vinegar solution into your glass spray bottle to about half full. You can store any leftover solution for the next time.
- Next, add 3-4 drops of essential oils, if desired. Be careful to do your research when selecting the best options for your home to make sure they are pet-friendly, safe to mix, etc. Lavender and Clary Sage are great additions to the lemon and vinegar mixture, are safe for pets, AND have been known to have antibacterial and anti-fungal properties.
- Top with distilled water, seal, and shake before each use.
- Looking for something stronger? Simply spray the surface you’re cleaning and sprinkle with baking soda. Let sit for a few minutes and scrub!
