You Never Knew You Could Use The Peel From This Juicy Citrus Fruit As A Fire Starter
After you've eaten your daily dose of vitamin C, don't throw out those peels. Orange peels contain flammable oils, primarily limonene. This high concentration of limonene allows them to ignite easily and sustain a flame, making them an effective and natural fuel source. This flammability, combined with the pleasant citrus aroma, makes citrus peels an environmentally-friendly choice for starting fires. Don't be afraid to experiment with other citrus fruits like mandarins, lemons, limes, and grapefruits.
Using citrus fruit peels as fire starters is considered to be a sustainable fuel source for a few different reasons. First, you're repurposing the discarded peels, which is keeping them from fermenting in a landfill and contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. Second, using these fragrant citrus skins as kindling reduces the carbon footprint associated with manufacturing and transporting commercial alternatives. And, unlike some commercial fire starters, citrus peels offer a clean burn without emitting harmful chemicals or toxins. The non-toxic ash can be safely composted or used as a natural soil amendment.
How to use citrus peels as fire starters
To use orange peels as fire starters, begin by allowing the peels to dry out completely. Choose peels that are chemical and pesticide free, wash them, and blot them with a towel to remove any excess moisture. Lay the peels in a single layer on a clean surface, like a baking sheet or wire rack, and allow them to air dry in a well-ventilated area for two to four days. Placing them in front of a window, on top of your refrigerator, or above your fireplace are good locations. Once thoroughly dried and brittle, store the orange peels in a sealed airtight container or a Ziplock bag until you're ready to use them.
An alternative for using orange peels as fire starters is to make firelighters. For this project, you'll need citrus peels and some wax, like beeswax or even old candles. Cut your citrus in half and scoop out the pulp. Melt the wax on your stove top until it turns into a liquid state. Carefully pour the hot wax into each of the citrus peel bowls, making sure that the wax thoroughly coats the inside of the peel. Allow the wax to harden, and store your firelighters in a cool, dark place.
A word of caution about fresh peels
While you might be tempted to just toss your fresh orange peels into your fireplace, it's best to reserve them for use outside. The natural oils present in these peels also give off excessive smoke. Using citrus peels in your wood-burning fireplace can lead to issues with smoke and creosote buildup, notes Northco Fire. Creosote is highly flammable, and if left unchecked, it can pose a significant fire hazard. Over time, the accumulation of creosote in the chimney can restrict proper airflow, and worsen any smoke-related issues your chimney might already be having.
In addition, always use a fireplace screen when using dried orange peels as fire starters. Although they retain no moisture, dried peels can ignite and burn unpredictably, even going so far as to shoot sparks or embers. A fire screen acts as a protective barrier that can prevent any accidents and will keep the fire inside the hearth while letting the sweet citrusy smell out.