New Delhi, 9 April 2025: Be it a cold lemon juice in summer or a skin-refreshing juice, it is a need of every home. But most people throw the peel in the garbage after extracting lemon juice. Do you know that these peels are as useful as its juice? Lemon peels, rich in vitamin C, antioxidants and citric acid, can be used in many ways from skin care to house cleaning. Let’s know how you can make your everyday tasks easy and economical by reusing these peels.

1. Natural recipe to brighten the skin
   The citric acid present in lemon peels acts as a natural bleach for the skin. It cleans the pores by removing dead cells and improves the complexion. Delhi-based skincare expert Ruchi Gupta says, “Make a powder of lemon peel and mix it with sugar. Scrub it gently on the face, elbows or knees. It makes the skin soft and shiny.” This 5-minute recipe every day can keep you away from expensive products.
2. Desi way to shine utensils

Are you troubled by grease and rust on utensils? Lemon peels can help you. Their acidic nature is effective in removing stains. Mumbai-based housewife Sheetal Patil says, “I rub lemon peel with dishwashing soap. Steel utensils shine.” Another easy way is to soak the peels with vinegar for two weeks. This mixture becomes a powerful natural cleaner, which removes even tough stains.

3. Make the microwave odor-free

It is common for the smell of food to remain in the microwave. To remove it, try lemon peels. Put water and peels in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it for 2-3 minutes. After the steam is formed, wipe it with a clean cloth. “This method is so easy that I now do it every week. The microwave not only gets clean but also smells fresh,” says Priya Sharma, an office worker from Bangalore.

4. Get rid of fridge odour

Food stored in the fridge often leaves a bad odour. Lemon peels are a natural remedy to eliminate it. Clean the fridge by adding 6-7 peels to water. It not only absorbs the odour but also kills bacteria. “I keep peels in the fridge. It keeps the food fresh for a long time and the air clean,” says Arun Das, a chef from Kolkata. This small step can keep your fridge clean and fragrant.

5. Make lemon oil at home

It is very easy to make aromatic oil from lemon peels. Put the peels in olive oil and keep it in the sun for a few days. This oil softens the skin, removes dandruff from hair and enhances the taste of food. “I add it to salad dressings. It’s both tasty and healthy,” says Swati Rao, a Chennai-based dietitian. This versatile oil can become a part of your kitchen and beauty routine.

6. Face pack for oily skin

If you have oily skin, a lemon peel face pack can be a boon for you. Make a paste by mixing peel powder, gram flour and rose water. Apply it on the face for 15 minutes. “It removes excess oil from my face and reduces acne. It is also a confidence booster as it is natural,” shares Neha Verma, a student from Lucknow. This pack helps keep the skin clean and fresh.

Why not waste peels?

Lemon peels are not only economical, but also beneficial for the environment. Reusing them instead of throwing them away reduces waste and also saves household expenses. Experts believe that the best way to reap the full benefits of their properties is to dry them, powder them or use them directly.

Small changes, big difference
The next time you juice a lemon, think twice before throwing away the peels. These peels can make your home cleaner, your skin brighter and your food tastier. As Priya Sharma says, “This small habit proved to be a game-changer for me.” So why not you try this simple tip and make the most of every part of the lemon?