We all know that coffee is wonderful -- It perks you up on Monday mornings and keeps you fueled all week. But, what happens to your coffee grounds when you're done brewing? If you're like most people, you probably toss them in the trash, but there are a ton of cool uses for your grounds that you've probably never thought of before! Check out some of our ideas below, and let us know your favorites by commenting on our Facebook page or Tweeting us at @RoyalCup.
1. Deodorize your fridge or car
Put used grounds into the foot of a panty hose that’s been removed from the stocking. Tie it off at the end and stick it where you want smells to be gone (like under your car seat or in your refrigerator!).
2. Dye paper to give it an “old timey” look
Dip parchment paper into a mix of grounds and water until you achieve your desired shade.
3. Keep bugs away from your plants
Slugs, roaches, and snails won’t go near coffee.
Make a ring around affected plants and watch your pests disappear!
4. Use coffee grounds as fertilizer
This works in two ways – the grounds increase nitrogen levels in soil and attract worms. Worms are important for soil because they act as a natural fertilizer using their own body processes. Do some research first, though, because not all plants like coffee.
5. Turn your hydrangeas blue
Coffee increases acidity in your soil’s pH, which can cause some flowers, like hydrangeas, to turn colors.
6. Remove scratches from wood furniture
Dip a Q-tip into used coffee grounds while they’re still moist and rub the Q-tip over the scratch until it disappears.
7. Make a dog shampoo that repels fleas
Combine some grounds into your dog’s shampoo to create a natural flea deterrent.
8. Get rid of puffy eyes
The caffeine in coffee grounds can temporarily mask dark under eye circles. Mix coffee grounds with water until a paste forms, and let it sit for 5-10 minutes on the under eye area before gently rinsing.
9. Reduce the appearance of cellulite (temporarily)
Mix coffee grounds with olive or almond oil to make a scrub. Rub it on your body in circular, sweeping motions. Rinse thoroughly.
