Eggshells are incredibly versatile and can be used in clever ways that you may not have thought of. Here are 15 genius ways to use eggshells that will make you reconsider tossing them in the trash:
Garden Fertilizer
Crush eggshells and sprinkle them around the base of your plants. They provide essential calcium for plant growth.
Pest Control
Use crushed eggshells to deter pests like slugs, snails, and even cats. Create a barrier by scattering the shells around your garden that these pests won’t cross.
Compost Enhancer
Add eggshells to your compost pile. As they break down, they help balance the pH of the compost and enrich it with valuable nutrients.
Seed Starters
Use eggshells as small pots for starting seeds. They are biodegradable and can be planted directly into the soil with the seedlings, giving them an extra boost of calcium.
Household Cleaner
Crushed eggshells mixed with a little soapy water make for a gentle abrasive cleaner. Use them to scrub pots, pans, and surfaces without worrying about scratching.
Face Mask
Turn eggshells into a fine powder, mix them with egg whites, and create a natural exfoliating face mask. Apply the mixture to your face, let it dry, and rinse off for smoother skin.
Laundry Whitener
Place crushed eggshells in a small mesh bag and add them to your laundry. The shells help remove stains and keep whites bright.
Natural Drain Cleaner
Make a mixture of warm water, dish soap, and ground eggshells to clean your pipes. They act as a scrub and prevent clogs.
Calcium Supplement for Pets
Sprinkle a small amount of crushed eggshells over your pet’s food as a calcium supplement. It’s a great addition to their diet.
Coffee Grounds Enhancer
Add crushed eggshells to your coffee grounds before brewing. The shells reduce the acidity of the coffee, resulting in a smoother taste.
Craft Projects
Get creative and use eggshells in various craft projects. Paint them, use them in mosaics, or as unique decorations for Easter eggs.
Calcium Supplement for Humans
Sterilize and grind eggshells into a fine powder to use as a natural calcium supplement. Add the powder to smoothies, baked goods, or sprinkle it over food.
Soil Amendment for Tomatoes
Help your tomato plants by adding crushed eggshells to the planting hole or around the base. This helps prevent blossom end rot.
Bird Feed
Sterilize and crush eggshells, then mix them with birdseed. The calcium boost will benefit birds, especially when it comes to their own eggshells.
Household Deodorizer
Place dried eggshells in a bowl or container and put it in your refrigerator or cupboard. They naturally absorb odors, keeping your kitchen fresh.
Conclusion
Eggshells have far more uses than you may have realized. Whether it’s gardening, pest control, beauty treatments, or craft projects, they offer a multitude of benefits. So next time you crack an egg, think twice before throwing away the shell – it might come in handy!
