Old coffee grounds can be repurposed in various creative ways beyond just throwing them away. Here are six ideas:
Garden Fertilizer: Coffee grounds are rich in nitrogen, making them an excellent natural fertilizer for plants. Sprinkle used coffee grounds directly onto the soil around acid-loving plants like azaleas, rhododendrons, and blueberries to enrich the soil and promote healthy growth.
Compost Ingredient: Add coffee grounds to your compost bin to enhance the nutrient content and improve soil structure. Coffee grounds help speed up the decomposition process and contribute valuable organic matter to the compost pile.
Natural Pest Repellent: Scatter coffee grounds around your garden or plant pots to deter pests like slugs, snails, and ants. The abrasive texture of coffee grounds can irritate pests and create a barrier that they're reluctant to cross.
Odor Neutralizer: Place a bowl of dried coffee grounds in the refrigerator, pantry, or other areas with unpleasant odors to absorb and neutralize smells. Coffee grounds can effectively eliminate odors while providing a natural, earthy scent.
Exfoliating Scrub: Mix coffee grounds with a small amount of coconut oil or honey to create a DIY exfoliating scrub for the skin. The coarse texture of coffee grounds helps remove dead skin cells, leaving your skin feeling smooth and refreshed.
DIY Furniture Stain: Brew strong coffee using old coffee grounds and use it as a natural stain for unfinished wood furniture or craft projects. Apply the coffee stain with a brush or cloth and allow it to dry thoroughly for a rich, rustic finish.