We all love a good banana. It’s quick, filling and perfect for busy mornings. But what about the peel?

Before you toss it into the compost, you might want to give it a second look. That humble skin can be surprisingly handy around the house.

Here are 10 clever, everyday ways to use banana peels – simple, practical and perfectly suited to a home:

In the kitchen

1. Add to curries and stir-fries: Banana peels are edible and take on flavour beautifully. Rinse well, slice thinly and sauté with garlic, ginger and your favourite spices. They work especially well in vegetable curries or hearty stir-fries where bold flavours shine.

2. Blend into smoothies: If you’re after extra fibre, add a small piece of ripe peel to your morning smoothie. Make sure it’s washed properly. When blended well, it won’t change the taste – just the nutritional value.

3. Stir into banana bread: Finely chop a soft, ripe peel and mix it into your batter. It adds moisture and reduces waste, making your bake feel that much more wholesome.

4. Keep roasts juicy: When slow-cooking chicken or pork, place a peel over the meat before covering. It helps lock in moisture while cooking. Remove before serving – no banana flavour left behind.

For skin and self-care

5. Soothe dry hands: Rub the inside of the peel over dry skin, especially hands and elbows. Leave it on for a few minutes, then rinse. It’s a quick, budget-friendly way to add softness.

6. Refresh tired complexion: The inner side of the peel can be gently swept across the face as a simple mask. Let it sit briefly, then wash off with cool water. Always test on a small area first if you have sensitive skin.

Around the house

7. Shine indoor plant leaves: Wipe dusty houseplant leaves with the inside of a peel. It lifts dirt and leaves a natural sheen – no store-bought sprays needed.

8. Feed your garden: Banana peels are rich in nutrients that plants love. Chop and bury them near roses or veggie patches, or add them to your compost heap to boost it naturally.

9. Freshen the bin: Place a small piece of peel at the bottom of your kitchen bin under the liner. It can help soften unpleasant smells between collections. Replace regularly.

10. Buff scuffed shoes: Gently rub the inside of the peel over minor scuff marks on leather shoes. Wipe with a soft cloth to bring back a subtle shine.

Banana peels may seem ordinary, but they’re full of small, useful possibilities. In a home where thoughtful living matters, using every part of what we buy simply makes sense.

Next time you enjoy a banana, let the peel work a little harder before it heads to the compost.

ALSO SEE: YOUR GUIDE TO USING BANANA PEELS AS FERTILISER IN YOUR GARDEN

Your guide to using banana peels as fertiliser in your garden