Coffee is a beverage that most people enjoy, but the majority of coffee drinkers are not aware that they can reuse ground beans. Coffee grounds should not end up in the garbage—instead, there are several ways grounds can be reused and upcycled. It is estimated that over 2.5 billion cups of coffee are consumed globally every year, which means millions of pounds of coffee grounds end up as waste in landfills across the planet. Let us look at some ways you can reuse your used coffee grounds and make something meaningful out of them.
Neutralize Odors
Used coffee grounds are an excellent way to neutralize unpleasant odors. You can take advantage of this by placing coffee grounds in open containers and letting them dry out. To achieve this, all you need to do is place the containers in areas where there is a free flow of air like an open window. Once the grounds are completely dry, you can go ahead and place the container inside or on top of your refrigerator to remove odors both inside and out. As we all know, the fridge and kitchen can accumulate unpleasant smells. While you’re at it, you can also place the containers in the closet or kitchen cabinets. They bring a fresh fragrance to the room and offer an excellent way to give your coffee grounds life instead of winding up in a landfill.
Fertilize Plants
Coffee grounds are an excellent source of nitrogen, an element known to improve the nutrient composition and structure of soil. Instead of throwing away your ground beans, you can use them to make plant compost when mixed with other food waste. It provides a great natural environment for planting crops in a garden, and it produces organic crops free from any unnatural chemicals. Instead of growing plants in an unnatural environment using synthetic fertilizers, let your coffee grounds do the work. Plant compost made out of simple organic ingredients is the best choice.
Make a Natural Scrub
Used coffee grounds can be used to clean dirty pots in the kitchen. All you have to do is add some salt and mix it with the coffee grounds. Once the mixture is done, you can use it to polish your sink and grill. Be careful not to use it on porous materials, however, as they can become stained. This combination works best for your kitchenware and kitchen surfaces.
Chase Away Pests
Nobody likes a home or even a kitchen infested with pests. A great way to chase away many types of pests is to use coffee grounds. The smell drives away pests such as wasps, ants and snails. Sprinkling the ground coffee will keep the pests at bay without harming children, dogs or cats like other insect repellants.
Transform Old to New
Coffee grounds are an excellent way to breathe new life into your old scratched dark wood furniture. All you need to do is add some water, mix it with some olive oil, and brush it on the scratched surface of your furniture. You will see some great results.
Create a Sustainable Cosmetic
Last but not least, coffee grounds are an excellent source of making all kinds of beauty regimes. Caffeine is an excellent source of antioxidants, fighting cellulite and offering a great way to achieve natural radiating hair.
Final Thoughts
Next time you’re reaching for the trash can to get rid of the coffee grounds after having your mocha or latte, think again. The ideas above are just a few of the ways coffee grounds can continue to offer value after being used. It is best to give them another life.
