Don’t Toss Them! Why You Should Keep Tangerine Peels Around

Why They’re Worth Saving

There’s so much to love about tangerine peels. They are a powerful, natural resource for your home:

Natural Air Freshener: Tangerine peels release a fresh, citrusy aroma that naturally deodorizes your home.
Pest Repellent: The essential oils in tangerine peels naturally deter ants, flies, and other unwanted critters.
Eco-Friendly Solution: Repurposing peels reduces food waste and eliminates the need for chemical-based products.
Decorative Touch: Dried tangerine peels can add a rustic, fragrant charm to your windowsills.

Your windowsills are the perfect place to start harnessing the power of citrus scent and pest control:

Simply place **freshly peeled tangerine skins** on your windowsill to let their natural fragrance fill the room. The sunlight enhances the scent as the peels dry.
Replace the peels every few days to keep the aroma fresh.

Place **dried or fresh tangerine peels** near window frames to deter ants, spiders, and flies. The citrus oils act as a natural insect repellent.
For extra effectiveness, sprinkle a few drops of **tangerine essential oil** around the windowsill area.

**Dry tangerine peels** by placing them on a baking sheet in a low-temperature oven (around 170°F/75°C) for 1–2 hours, or let them air-dry in a sunny spot.
Once dried, arrange the peels in small bowls, tie them with twine for hanging ornaments, or fill small fabric pouches (sachets) with the peels and herbs like **lavender or rosemary**.
Craft **Natural Potpourri** by combining dried tangerine peels with cinnamon sticks, cloves, and pinecones for a festive display.

Beyond windowsills, tangerine peels have countless other uses around the house, in the kitchen, and in your garden:

DIY Cleaning Solutions: Boil tangerine peels in water to create a natural all-purpose cleaner. The citrus oils cut through grease and leave a fresh scent.
Infuse Oils and Vinegars: Add tangerine peels to olive oil or vinegar for a citrus-infused flavor boost in cooking.
Compost Booster: Toss leftover peels into your compost bin to add nutrients and speed up decomposition.
Homemade Candied Peels: Simmer tangerine peels in sugar syrup, then dry them for a sweet, tangy treat.
Fire Starters: Dip dried tangerine peels in melted wax to create eco-friendly fire starters for your fireplace or grill.

**Dry Peels Properly:** Ensure peels are fully dried before using them for decor or storage to **prevent mold**.
**Avoid Mold Growth:** If using fresh peels, **replace them every 2–3 days** to keep your space clean and fragrant.
**Combine with Other Scents:** Pair tangerine peels with complementary scents like **vanilla, cinnamon, or eucalyptus** for a layered aroma.