12 Things to Do with Banana Peels Instead of Throwing Them Away
Banana peels are often discarded, but they’re packed with nutrients and beneficial compounds that can be used in various ways for health, beauty, gardening, and even household purposes. Here are 12 creative and practical uses for banana peels that will make you think twice before tossing them.
1. Natural Fertilizer for Plants
Why: Banana peels are rich in potassium, phosphorus, and calcium, essential nutrients for plant growth.
How to Use:
Chop banana peels and bury them in the soil around your plants for slow-release nutrients.
Blend banana peels with water to make a liquid fertilizer.
2. Shine Shoes and Leather Items
Why: The inside of the peel contains natural oils that polish and condition leather.
How to Use:
Rub the inside of a banana peel on shoes, bags, or belts, then buff with a soft cloth.
3. Teeth Whitening
Why: The potassium, magnesium, and manganese in banana peels can help remove stains from teeth.
How to Use:
Rub the inside of the peel on your teeth for 1–2 minutes daily, then brush as usual.
4. DIY Face Mask
Why: Banana peels are packed with antioxidants and vitamins that nourish and brighten the skin.
How to Use:
Mash a banana peel with honey and apply it to your face.
Leave it on for 15 minutes, then rinse with warm water.
5. Treat Bug Bites and Skin Irritations
Why: Banana peels have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that reduce itching and swelling.
How to Use:
Rub the inside of a banana peel directly on the affected area for relief.
6. Hair Conditioner
Why: Banana peels can hydrate and add shine to dull hair.
How to Use:
Blend banana peels with coconut milk or yogurt.
Apply the mixture to your hair, leave it on for 20 minutes, and rinse thoroughly.
7. Compost Booster
Why: Banana peels break down quickly and add nutrients to your compost pile.
How to Use:
Add chopped banana peels to your compost bin to enrich the soil.
8. Repel Pests
Why: The scent of banana peels repels aphids and other garden pests.
How to Use:
Place small pieces of banana peel around the base of plants to keep pests away.
9. Clean Houseplants
Why: The natural oils in banana peels clean and add shine to plant leaves.
How to Use:
