Bananas can add flavor to many things, from smoothies and cereals to baked goods and everything in between. However, one less favorable part of the banana is the peel, which always seems destined for either the trash or a composting pile. But, what to do if you don’t have a compost of your own? You may be surprised to learn that there are many great uses for banana peels – some even better than the fruit itself! Read on to discover 4 ideas.
Polish Shoes
Shining your shoes with shoe polish can be a pain in the neck. Banana peels, on the other hand, are much less messy and just as effective, when it comes to keeping your leather or faux leather shoes soft, supple, and shiny. Simply rub the inside of the peel on your shoes and watch as scuffs lift away instantly. Follow by buffing with the peel and wiping away any residue with a soft cloth.
Moisturize Dry Skin
Amino acids and vitamins A, B, C, and E are just a few of the miracle ingredients in banana peels. Luckily for your skin, these nutrients all work wonders on dry, cracked, itchy skin. Rub the inside of the peel on your soles and any other dry areas. Rinse off any leftover residue. Repeat the process every day and enjoy soft, smooth feet or elbows in no time.
Cook in Moisture
You might be surprised to learn that bananas allow the meat to retain moisture while cooking. The next time you’d like to prepare a pot roast or other tender meat dish, add a ripe banana peel or two to the bottom of the pan before cooking. You can also use bananas to add moisture to a chicken breast or turkey dish. Simply lay banana peels over the meat while cooking and remove them when complete.
Shine and Fertilize Plants
Indoor plants looking a little dull and lifeless? Use banana peels to restore their shine and fertilize them. Remove dust (which inhibits photosynthesis) by rubbing leaves with the inside of a peel. Then, cut up a peel and put it in the soil with your plant. You can also bury the entire peel in the soil or allow several peels to marinate in water. When your plants need a boost, replenish them with the banana water.
It’s always fun to learn something new! At Westmount at Three Fountains Apartments in San Antonio, Texas, we love to provide you with fun, thought-provoking tidbits that will make you reflect on different aspects of life.