30+ Things to Do with Eggshells
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Eggshells are often discarded without a second thought, but these natural containers are packed with potential. From gardening to household uses, here are over 30 innovative ways to use eggshells.
1. Fertilize Your Garden
Why: Eggshells are rich in calcium and other minerals that promote plant growth. How: Crush the shells into small pieces and sprinkle them around the base of your plants or mix them into the soil.
2. Compost Enrichment
Why: Eggshells decompose and add essential nutrients to the compost.
How: Rinse and crush the shells before adding them to your compost bin to speed up decomposition.
3. Pest Deterrent
Why: Sharp edges of eggshells deter soft-bodied pests like slugs and snails.
How: Scatter crushed shells around the garden perimeter or at the base of plants.
4. Seed Starters
Why: Eggshells provide a biodegradable and nutrient-rich container for seedlings.
How: Fill half an eggshell with soil and plant your seeds. Transplant the whole shell into the ground when ready.
5. Calcium Supplement for Chickens
Why: Chickens need calcium for strong eggshells.
How: Bake the shells to kill bacteria, crush them finely, and mix with chicken feed.
6. Soil Amendment
Why: Adding calcium to the soil can improve its structure and pH balance.
How: Grind shells into a powder and mix into the soil or water plants with shell-infused water.
7. Natural Abrasive Cleaner
Why: Eggshells’ gritty texture makes them an effective scrubber.
How: Blend shells into a fine powder and mix with soapy water to clean pots and pans.
8. Drain Cleaner
Why: Eggshells help catch debris and clean pipes.
How: Crush and occasionally put a few shells down the sink drain to help scrape and collect debris.
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9. Laundry Whitener
Why: The calcium in eggshells helps maintain the whiteness of laundry.
How: Place shells in a muslin bag and add to the laundry machine with white clothes.
10. Face Mask
Why: Eggshell powder is rich in calcium, beneficial for skin health.
How: Grind shells into a powder, mix with egg whites or honey, and apply to the face.
11. Garden Lime Substitute
Why: Eggshells can adjust soil pH levels.
How: Use finely ground eggshells as a substitute for lime in acidic soils.
12. Bird Feed Supplement
Why: Wild birds need calcium for healthy bones and eggs.
How: Bake and crush shells before adding to bird feed.
13. Neutralize Coffee Acidity
Why: Eggshells can reduce the bitterness of coffee.
How: Add a few crushed shells to the coffee grounds before brewing.
14. Craft Material
Why: Eggshells can be used in various crafts due to their texture and strength.
How: Clean and dye the shells for mosaics, decorations, or ornaments.
15. Calcium-Rich Dog Treat
Why: Dogs benefit from calcium for strong bones and teeth.
How: Bake and crush the shells, then mix with dog food.
16. Household Odor Neutralizer
Why: Eggshells can absorb odors.
How: Place crushed shells in a breathable container in the refrigerator or other areas needing deodorizing.
17. Wound Care
Why: Eggshell membranes promote healing and reduce pain.
How: Apply the membrane from inside the shell directly to minor cuts and abrasions.
18. Cleaning Aquariums
Why: Eggshells can help maintain water hardness.
How: Add crushed shells to the filter to provide a steady release of calcium.
19. Natural Toothpaste
Why: Calcium helps in remineralizing teeth.
How: Mix powdered shells with baking soda and coconut oil for a natural toothpaste.
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20. Home Décor
Why: Eggshells add a rustic and natural touch.
How: Use halves as tiny planters for succulents or as candle holders.
21. Chalk Making
Why: Eggshells contain calcium carbonate, a primary component of chalk.
How: Combine ground shells with flour and hot water, shape into sticks, and let dry.
22. Cleaning Cutting Boards
Why: Eggshell abrasiveness helps remove stains and smells.
How: Scrub the cutting board with crushed shells and soapy water.
23. Feed for Worm Bins
Why: Worms need grit to aid digestion.
How: Crush shells and add them to your worm compost bin.
24. Natural Bandage
Why: The membrane helps to protect and heal skin.
How: Place the inner membrane on minor cuts and wounds as a natural bandage.
25. Potted Plant Drainage
Why: Shells improve drainage and add calcium to potted plants.
How: Place crushed shells at the bottom of pots before adding soil.
26. Supplement for Livestock
Why: Livestock, like goats, benefit from additional calcium.
How: Crush shells and mix with their regular feed.
27. Snail Bait
Why: Snails are attracted to and then repelled by eggshells.
How: Scatter shells in the garden to both attract and deter snails.
28. Hair Growth Treatment
Why: Calcium is essential for healthy hair growth.
How: Mix powdered shells into your shampoo or conditioner.
29. Stain Remover
Why: Eggshells can help lift stains from fabric.
How: Rub crushed shells on stained areas before washing.
30. Eco-Friendly Candle Mold
Why: Eggshells provide a biodegradable mold.
How: Fill empty shells with wax and a wick to create candles.
31. Poultry Water Supplement
Why: Chickens need calcium for overall health.
How: Add a few cleaned and crushed shells to their water supply.
32. Jewelry Cleaner
Why: Eggshells’ abrasiveness helps polish jewelry.
How: Use a soft cloth with a mixture of eggshell powder and water to gently rub jewelry.
33. Snail and Slug Trap
Why: Sharp edges deter these pests.
How: Form a barrier around plants with crushed shells.
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34. Bath Soak
Why: Calcium can soothe the skin.
How: Add powdered shells to your bath for a calcium-rich soak.
35. Calcium Supplement for Humans
Why: Eggshells can be a source of dietary calcium.
How: Sterilize, crush into a fine powder, and add to smoothies or food.
Eggshells offer a multitude of uses beyond their primary role in protecting the egg’s contents. By repurposing them, you not only reduce waste but also benefit your home, garden, and health in various ways. So, next time you crack an egg, think twice before throwing away the shell!