The question of what to deal with old coffee grinds is one that we, as coffee roasters, are frequently asked. People are curious in whether or whether they can compost them, utilize them as a natural skin care product, or even drink them.
Even if all of these activities are doable, we thought it would be fascinating to examine ten creative and non-hazardous methods to use your extra coffee grounds.
In addition to putting them into your garden soil, they can also be used as a natural insect repellent. There are many various ways to put those old grounds to good use.
1. Compost Them
Coffee grounds are rich in nitrogen, potassium, and magnesium, making them an excellent addition to compost piles. They speed up the decomposition of organic matter while boosting soil health.
2. Use Them for Skin Care
Coffee grounds make a natural exfoliant that helps remove dead skin cells. Mix them with olive oil or honey to create a simple scrub or facial mask.
3. Add Them to Garden Soil
Sprinkling coffee grounds directly around plants or mixing them into the soil improves fertility and helps inhibit fungi growth while deterring pests.
4. Make a Natural Insect Repellent
According to the EPA, coffee grounds are highly effective when burned. Place them in a fire-safe bowl outdoors and burn them like incense to repel insects.
5. Use Them as Mulch
Coffee grounds work as a natural mulch, helping the soil retain moisture and prevent weed growth around plants.
6. Create Coffee-Infused Fertilizer
Mix used grounds with eggshells and banana peels to make a powerful, nutrient-rich fertilizer that supports healthy plant growth.
7. Deodorize Your Fridge
Like baking soda, coffee grounds absorb unpleasant odors. Place a small bowl of dry grounds in your fridge to neutralize smells.
8. Make a Natural Air Freshener
Combine coffee grounds with vanilla extract or essential oils to create a homemade air freshener that provides a warm, earthy aroma.
9. Remove Grease from Pans
Add coffee grounds to hot water and dish soap in a greasy pan. Let sit for a few minutes, then scrub to lift away residue.
10. Try Coffee-Infused Ice Cream
Simmer heavy cream with coffee grounds on low heat until infused, strain out the grounds, and then freeze in an ice cream maker for a delicious homemade treat.
