Lemon peels are often discarded after the juice has been squeezed out, but these rinds are a treasure trove of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Here are twelve unusual and creative ways to repurpose lemon peels, ensuring you make the most out of every lemon in your kitchen.

1. Natural Cleaning Agent

Lemon peels contain citric acid which makes them great for cleaning. You can use them to scrub dishes, polish chrome fixtures, and even clean glass. Rub a lemon peel with a little baking soda on surfaces to remove stains.

2. Freshen Up Your Garbage Disposal

Drop a few lemon peels into your garbage disposal and run it to eliminate unpleasant odors and freshen up your drain.

3. Make Lemon Pepper

Dry the peels, grind them, and mix with black pepper to create a zesty lemon pepper seasoning for meats, salads, and soups.

4. Create a Natural Insect Repellent

The natural oils in lemon peels are distasteful to many insects. Place lemon peels near doorways or windowsills to deter ants, flies, and mosquitoes.

5. Shoe Freshener

Place a fresh lemon peel or two inside your shoes overnight to absorb odors and leave a fresh scent.

6. DIY Lemon Oil

Soak lemon peels in olive or almond oil for a few weeks, then strain. Use the lemon oil to polish wood furniture or condition leather.

7. Air Freshener

Simmer lemon peels in water on the stove top to fill your home with a citrusy aroma. You can also add cloves or cinnamon sticks for a spicier scent.

8. Lemon Sugar

Dry the lemon peels and grind them with sugar to make lemon sugar. This can be used in baking recipes or to sweeten tea.

9. Whiten Nails

Rub a lemon peel on your fingernails to help remove surface stains and whiten the appearance of your nails.

10. Deodorize and Clean the Microwave

Heat lemon peels in a bowl of water in the microwave for five minutes. The steam will help loosen food particles, and the lemon will deodorize.

11. Add to Tea

Dry lemon peels and add them to your teas for a natural citrus flavor. This is especially good in green and black teas.

12. Make a Vinegar Cleaner

Steep lemon peels in vinegar for a few weeks, strain, and then use the vinegar as a powerful, natural cleaning solution for windows, mirrors, and other surfaces.

By using lemon peels in these various ways, not only do you reduce waste, but you also harness the natural benefits of this citrus fruit. Whether for cleaning, cooking, or freshening your home, lemon peels provide an eco-friendly solution to many everyday tasks.