Do you often find yourself tossing away eggshells without a second thought? Well, think again! Those seemingly mundane shells can serve a multitude of purposes and shouldn’t just end up in the trash. Packed with calcium and boasting a perfect abrasive texture, eggshells can be your go-to household hero. Let’s explore some simple and eco-friendly ways to make the most of them!
1. Mellow Out Your Coffee Brew
If bitter coffee isn’t your cup of tea, try this trick. Crushed eggshells added to your coffee grounds before brewing can absorb some of the acidity, resulting in a smoother taste.
2. Replace Harmful Microbead-Based Cleansers
Say goodbye to harmful microbeads! Crushed eggshells mixed with egg whites create a natural exfoliating cleanser or face mask, promoting healthy skin without harming the environment.
3. An Inexpensive Calcium Supplement
Save on calcium supplements by using ground eggshells. They offer a budget-friendly alternative, providing more than double the daily calcium requirement for adults. Add them to juices, smoothies, or even your pets’ food for a calcium boost.
4. Soothe Joint Pain with Apple Cider Vinegar
Create a healing mixture by soaking eggshells in apple cider vinegar. Packed with nutrients like collagen and glucosamine, this remedy can provide relief when applied to sore joints.
5. DIY Household Cleaner
Mix crushed eggshells with baking soda and water to create a natural abrasive cleaner. Ideal for tackling stains on stoves, pots, counters, and showers without harmful chemicals.
6. Keep Stray Cats Away from Your Garden
Deter stray cats by spreading crushed eggshells in areas they frequent. The sharp edges are uncomfortable for cats, making them avoid the treated areas.
7. Boost Bird Seed with Calcium
Support your feathered friends by adding crushed eggshells to bird seeds. Female birds, especially those calcium deficient after laying eggs, benefit from the added calcium.
8. Remove Mug Stains Naturally
Restore discolored mugs by soaking them with crushed eggshells and water overnight. The porous shells absorb stains, eliminating the need for excessive scrubbing.
9. Pest Deterrent for Your Garden
Keep pests at bay by scattering broken eggshells in problem areas. Soft-shelled pests, like slugs, dislike crawling over sharp shells, protecting your garden.
10. Use as Seed Pots
Start seeds in spring by using half an eggshell filled with potting soil. An economical and eco-friendly alternative to traditional seed pots.
11. Feed Eggshells to Your Chickens
Ensure healthy eggs from your backyard chickens by adding crushed eggshells to their diet, supplying essential calcium.
12. Add Calcium to Your Garden Soil
Combat blossom end rot in peppers and tomatoes by scattering eggshells around plants. The calcium-rich shells promote healthy fruit development.
13. Make Homemade Sidewalk Chalk
Engage in a fun DIY project with the kids! Use hard-boiled eggshells to create homemade sidewalk chalk for creative outdoor play.
14. Contribute to Your Compost Pile
Still unsure? Toss eggshells into your compost pile for a fast-breaking, calcium-rich addition. Clean them thoroughly before use by baking at 150 degrees for 10 minutes.
Who knew eggshells could be so versatile? Share your thoughts and tell us how you plan to use your eggshells in the comments below! Let’s make the most of these overlooked kitchen treasures.
