5 Ways to Use Oranges in the Home

What to do when life gives you oranges…

If you live in southern California, you know that the middle of winter is Navel Orange season. I have one dwarf Navel Orange tree in my backyard and that little tree produces more oranges than we could ever possibly eat. So, if you’re like me and wondering what to do with them besides juice them, eat them and give them away, here are some of my favorite ideas.

For the Home:

1. Citrus Cleaner – You’ll never throw away an orange peel again.

Recipe:

Place orange rinds into plain distilled white vinegar to infuse the citrus oils.

All you have to do is cut off the pith, the white membrane. Remove as much as possible then put your rinds in a jar.

Cap them and shake daily for two weeks. Then strain into a container

**Vinegar has a pH of 2.0 which is an inhospitable environment for many microorganisms. It is the perfect natural cleaner for your home! Plus, it stores indefinitely if you are using it for cleaning purposes.

2. Garbage Disposal Sweetener – Keep the vinegar orange peels in a jar on the counter and put a few down the disposal every time you use it.

3. Clean Your Sink – Oranges can be used to safely clean most surfaces, but not natural stone as it will cause etching.

Cut an orange in half and dip it lightly into a dish of salt. Scrub the inside of your sink with the salted orange. Rinse thoroughly. Even an orange that has already been juiced will work with this technique.

4. Trash Deodorizer – Place orange peel at the bottom of your trash can, before putting the bag or bags in 1to reduce odor and discourage insect infestation.

For You:

5. Citrus Salt Body Scrub

Ingredients

1/2 cup sea salt

1/2 cup sweet almond oil, (can substitute light olive oil or vegetable oil)

1/2 teaspoon lemon zest

1/2 teaspoon orange zest

Preparation

In a medium dry bowl, combine all ingredients making sure to not let any water touch them as it will dissolve the salt. Pour mixture into an airtight container and store in a cool dry place.

To use: Just before showering, swirl ingredients together with your fingertips to mix. Clean body completely and just before exiting shower, apply Citrus Salt Body Scrub to body in a firm circular scrubbing motion with hands or a soft washcloth. Rinse off the mixture and pat body dry with a clean towel.

Orange you glad I shared these tips with you? 😉 Leave your tips in the comments below.