February 2023

Chances are you have some bananas in your apartment or townhouse right now. They’re one of those fruits that just about everyone enjoys. And while you probably don’t think twice about tossing out your banana peels, they’re actually not worthless. There are quite a few things you can do with banana peels that make them almost as valuable as the banana inside. From polishing your shoes to treating acne, here are five ways to use banana peels.

Polish Shoes

Banana peels are an all-natural way to keep your leather shoes shined. You know that bananas are rich in potassium, and that just happens to be a primary ingredient in shoe polish. Just rub the inside of the peel on your shoes, wipe off any residue, and buff. This trick can come in really handy when you travel. Most people don’t think to bring shoe polish, but you can always find a banana.

Moisturize Your Feet

Not only can banana peels be used to shine your shoes, but they can also moisturize the feet that go in those shoes. Banana peels are rich in amino acids and vitamins A, B, C and E, all of which work wonders on dry, itchy skin. Just rub the inside of the peel on your soles and any other dry areas and wipe off any excess.

Treat Acne

Banana peels are contain lectin and zinc, both of which have antibacterial traits that can help treat acne. Just gently rub the inside of the peel on the affected areas – the more ripe the banana is, the better. Leave the residue on your skin for five to 10 minutes and then rinse. Apply a few times daily.

Soothe Bug Bites

Banana peels are loaded with polysaccharides, which reduce swelling and inflammation. The next time you get bug bite, just gently rub it with the inside of a banana peel. Save the peel in a zip lock bag and reapply whenever you feel the need for some itch relief.

Clean and Fertilize Houseplants

Have you ever noticed dust on the leaves of your plants? It’s not a great thing, because it makes it harder for photosynthesis to occur. By wiping the leaves with the inside of a banana peel you’ll remove dust and give them a nice shiny look. Then fertilize your plant by cutting up the peel and mixing it into the soil or make a “tea” for watering your plants. Just place the banana peel in a large glass of water and let it sit for a couple of days. Discard the peel and water your plants.