Last Updated on June 10, 2024 by Veronica Sparks
Egg shells are often discarded without a second thought, but did you know that there are numerous uses for egg shells that can benefit your home and garden? From natural living solutions to practical household tips, egg shells can be surprisingly versatile. Whether you’re an avid gardener, backyard chicken owner, or just looking for eco-friendly ways to repurpose waste, these ideas will inspire you to make the most of every egg shell.
1. Compost for Your Garden
One of the most common uses for egg shells is adding them to your compost pile. Egg shells are rich in calcium carbonate, which is essential for plant growth. When crushed and added to compost, they help balance the pH levels and provide essential nutrients. This not only enriches the compost but also enhances the overall health of your soil.
To start composting with egg shells, simply rinse your shells, let them dry, and then crush them into small pieces before adding them to your compost bin. Over time, these fragments will break down and contribute valuable minerals to your compost, making it a nutrient-rich addition to your garden.
2. Garden Fertilizer and Drainage Improver
If you’re looking for an organic fertilizer for vegetable gardens, egg shells can be a fantastic solution. Crushed egg shells can be sprinkled directly onto the soil or mixed into the planting holes when you transplant seedlings. The calcium in the shells helps strengthen plant cell walls, promoting healthier growth and higher yields.
Additionally, egg shells can improve soil drainage. By mixing crushed shells into the soil, you can prevent compaction and enhance water penetration. This is particularly beneficial for heavy clay soils, which often struggle with drainage issues.
3. Chicken Feed
For those raising chickens, feeding chickens egg shells is a practical way to recycle waste and provide a calcium boost to your flock. Chickens require calcium for strong eggshell production, which is why many chicken owners feed their hens oyster shells. However, giving them their own shells back is a cost-effective and efficient method.
To prepare egg shells for chicken feed, rinse them thoroughly to remove any egg residue, then bake them at a low temperature to sterilize. Once they’re dry, crush the shells into small pieces and mix them with your chicken feed. This not only supplements their diet but also helps recycle food waste.
4. Seed Starter Containers
Starting seeds indoors is a common gardening practice, and egg shells make excellent seed starter containers. They are biodegradable, provide essential nutrients, and are the perfect size for young seedlings.
To use egg shells as seed starters, you’ll want to keep the shell as whole as possible. Carefully crack the top of the egg and empty the contents. Rinse the shell and poke a small drainage hole in the bottom. Fill the shell with soil and plant your seeds.
When the seedlings are ready to be transplanted, simply plant the entire egg shell in the ground. The shell will decompose and enrich the soil around the plant!
5. Garden Pest Deterrent
Egg shells can also be used for natural garden pest control. Crushed egg shells create a barrier that deters pests like slugs and snails, which are dislike the sharp edges. According to Gardening KnowHow, if they do cross the barrier, the egg shells will cut their bodies and they’ll dehydrate and die. This method is chemical-free and safe for both plants and pets!
To create an effective pest deterrent, crush the egg shells into small pieces and sprinkle them around the base of your vulnerable plants. This will create a physical barrier that these pests find difficult to cross, protecting your garden without the need for harmful pesticides.
6. Abrasive Pan Scrubber
Did you know egg shells can be used as an abrasive cleaner for your kitchen? The rough texture of crushed egg shells makes them ideal for scrubbing stubborn grime and baked-on food from pots and pans.
To make a natural abrasive scrub, crush the egg shells into a fine powder and mix them with a bit of water and dish soap. Use this mixture to scrub your pans, and you’ll be surprised at how effective it is at removing tough residues. This eco-friendly cleaner is a great alternative to commercial abrasives.
7. Blender Blade Sharpener
Keeping your blender blades sharp is essential for efficient blending. Egg shells can help you maintain your blades without the need for special tools.
To sharpen your blender blades, simply crush a handful of sanitized, dried egg shells and add them to the blender. Run the blender for a few minutes, allowing the egg shells to grind against the blades. This will help sharpen the edges and keep your blender in top condition. Be sure to rinse thoroughly afterward to remove any shell fragments!
8. Laundry Whitener
Whites looking a bit dingy? You can use egg shells to whiten your laundry naturally! The calcium carbonate in egg shells helps to remove stains and brighten fabrics without the need for harsh chemicals.
To use egg shells as a laundry whitener, place sanitized, dried crushed shells in a small mesh bag or a piece of cloth and add it to your washing machine along with your laundry. The shells will help to lift stains and leave your clothes looking brighter and fresher.
9. Coffee Enhancer
Coffee lovers can use egg shells to improve the taste of the brew! Adding a bit of crushed egg shell to your coffee grounds helps reduce the bitterness and create a smoother flavor.
To try this hack, simply crush a clean, dry egg shell and mix it with your coffee grounds before brewing. The calcium carbonate in the shell helps to neutralize the acids in the coffee, resulting in a less bitter taste. This simple trick can make your morning cup of coffee even more enjoyable.
How to Prepare Egg Shells for Use
These uses for egg shells require you to take some steps to sanitize your shells. Using unsanitized egg shells can pose health risks due to potential bacterial contamination, such as Salmonella. Proper sanitization ensures they are safe for various uses, from garden applications to household cleaning tasks.
To sanitize and prepare egg shells for use, rinse them thoroughly after cracking and store in the refrigerator. Once you’ve collected enough, boil the shells for 15 minutes, then drain. Bake them at 250°F for 20-25 minutes until completely dry and crispy.
Put These Uses for Egg Shells into Action!
Egg shells are a versatile and valuable resource that can be used in many ways around your home and garden. From enriching your compost to providing natural garden pest control, these simple shells offer numerous benefits. By incorporating these uses for egg shells into your daily routine, you can reduce waste, save money, and promote a more sustainable, natural living lifestyle.
So the next time you crack an egg, remember the potential hidden in that fragile shell and put it to good use!