Unlocking the hidden potential of common kitchen leftovers can be surprisingly beneficial, and the combination of orange peels and salt is no exception. This simple mix isn’t just a thrifty tip—it’s a powerful tool in your home care arsenal. Here’s why you’ll be grateful for trying out this easy hack.
Natural Air Freshener
Orange peels are naturally fragrant, and when combined with salt, they can absorb and neutralize odors, leaving your home smelling fresh and citrusy. Simply place a handful of fresh orange peels in a bowl, sprinkle with coarse salt, and set it in areas like the kitchen, bathroom, or anywhere that needs a freshness boost. The salt intensifies the citrus scent and acts as a mild antibacterial agent, making this an effective and natural air freshener.
Gentle Scrubbing Agent
Salt acts as a gentle abrasive, and when mixed with orange peels, it becomes an eco-friendly scrub for cleaning. The oils in the orange peels help break down grease and grime, while the salt scrubs away stubborn spots without scratching surfaces. Use this mixture to scrub sinks, countertops, and even bathtubs. Just rub the peel, with the pith facing down, sprinkled with salt on the desired surface, and watch as it cuts through dirt effortlessly.
Ant Repellant
If you’re dealing with ants, this combination can help. Ants dislike the scent of citrus and the abrasive nature of salt. Mix chopped orange peels with salt and sprinkle the mixture along entry points, window sills, or baseboards where ants are prevalent. This natural deterrent keeps ants away without the use of harsh chemicals.
Skin Exfoliation
Orange peels contain natural acids that are beneficial for the skin, and when combined with salt, you get a homemade exfoliating scrub. This can rejuvenate your skin by removing dead skin cells, boosting circulation, and brightening your complexion. Mix ground orange peels with fine salt and a little olive oil to create a paste, then gently massage onto your skin before rinsing off with warm water.
Garden Fertilizer
Orange peels are rich in nitrogen, and salt in small amounts can provide trace minerals to the soil. Combine dried, crushed orange peels with coarse salt and sprinkle around your garden plants. This mixture acts as a natural fertilizer, providing essential nutrients to the soil, which can help enhance plant growth and vitality.
How to Prepare
It’s simple to prepare: just collect the peels from the oranges you consume, sprinkle them with a little salt, and let them dry for a day or two. Once ready, you can use them for any of the purposes listed above. This not only helps in reducing waste but also provides you with an array of practical, natural solutions for everyday problems.
Try this easy and effective trick with just salt and orange peels, and you may find yourself adopting it as a go-to solution in your home. You’ll be amazed at how such simple ingredients can make a significant impact!
