15 Brilliant Uses For Eggshells In The Home & Garden

The humble eggshell is more than just a protective casing for the nourishing contents inside – it is a shining example of nature’s remarkable packaging prowess. In fact, these shells offer more benefits beyond the kitchen: they are made up of 95% calcium carbonate, a mineral that closely resembles the structure of our own bones and teeth. As a result, incorporating eggshells into our diets can help strengthen our bones and shield our enamel. Surprisingly, the shells can also be consumed, providing an excellent source of calcium – just half an eggshell can meet your daily recommended intake! Whether you have chickens in your backyard or simply enjoy cooking with eggs, it is wise to repurpose these shells rather than discarding them. By doing so, you can reap their numerous rewards and reduce your waste footprint.

15 Brilliant Uses For Eggshells In The Home & Garden

 

1. Use eggshells to start seedlings indoors

Are you looking for an eco-friendly solution to starting seeds in your garden? Plastic pots are not only unsustainable but also create waste. While peat pots, newspaper pots, and wooden flats are great options, eggshells are the ultimate winner for their natural and biodegradable properties.

Eggshells are an excellent alternative to plastic pots. They are not only biodegradable, but they also provide added calcium to the soil when they break down. To start using eggshells, simply fill them halfway with soil, carefully place your seeds, and wait for them to grow. You can keep the eggshells in place by returning them to the egg carton. Once the plants are large enough, you can transplant the entire eggshell pot into your garden.

Not convinced? You can find other biodegradable seedling pot ideas around your home. Tracey’s roundup of seven popular options tried and tested these ideas and reveals which ones worked best. Say goodbye to plastic and hello to sustainability with these eco-friendly planting options.

2. Garden mulch

Transform your eggshells into a garden powerhouse with just a simple step after breakfast or baking. Instead of tossing them in the trash, crush them up and head straight to your garden! As the eggshells break down, they naturally aerate the soil and improve water flow, making it easier for your plants to absorb nutrients. Not to mention, eggshells are a fantastic source of calcium, which is essential for strong plant growth. The smaller the pieces, the quicker they’ll decompose, so break them down as finely as possible. Don’t miss out on this easy and effective way to give your garden a boost!

3. Nourish your tomatoes with a boost of calcium.

When it comes to gardening, sometimes unexpected things happen, like a surprise tomato plant that sprouts up from last season. Consider it a survivor, and give it some extra care and attention. To help your tomato plant thrive, consider adding crushed eggshells to the soil around it. The calcium in the eggshells can help prevent blossom-end rot, a common issue caused by a calcium imbalance. But tomatoes aren’t the only plants that benefit from this natural fertilizer. Squashes, peppers, cabbage, and broccoli can also benefit from the calcium boost provided by eggshells. So the next time you’re enjoying a delicious egg-based breakfast or baking a cake, don’t toss those eggshells! Crush them up and use them to give your garden a natural, nutrient-rich boost.

4. Feed eggshells to your chickens

If you’re a backyard chicken owner, you know that ensuring your hens receive proper nutrition is crucial for healthy egg production. One important nutrient for laying hens is calcium, and a simple way to provide them with this essential mineral is by feeding them their own eggshells. However, if you notice your chickens eating their own eggs, it could be a sign of a vitamin deficiency. To prevent this behavior and provide adequate nutrition, save your eggshells and dry them out at room temperature. Once you have enough, lightly crush them and spread them thinly on a baking sheet. Bake the shells at 275 degrees Fahrenheit for about ten minutes until they become brittle, then crush them further and serve them to your chickens in small amounts. By feeding your chickens their own eggshells, you can help them maintain optimal health and improve the quality of the eggs they lay.

5. Use crushed eggshells in the garden to deter pests

Protecting your garden from snails and slugs can be a challenging task, especially if you don’t want to harm these creatures or invite ducks into your garden. Fortunately, there is a simple solution that can help keep your plants safe: eggshells! Crush your eggshells roughly and place them around the base of your plants. This will act as a deterrent for snails and slugs who are notorious for munching on your greens. Not only will eggshells keep these pests away, but they will also decompose over time, releasing calcium into the soil and promoting healthy plant growth. By using eggshells in your garden, you can create a natural barrier to protect your plants and enhance the health of your soil. So, next time you enjoy your breakfast, don’t toss those eggshells away – use them to keep your garden flourishing!

6. Add them to the compost

Eggshells are a great addition to your compost pile, providing an excellent source of calcium for your plants. In fact, adding eggshells to your compost can help increase its quality and reduce the amount of waste you produce. Composting is not only an eco-friendly way to manage your household waste, but it’s also an effective way to improve your garden’s soil health. By adding eggshells to your compost, you can boost the calcium levels of your soil, which is essential for strong, healthy plant growth. So, don’t throw away those eggshells after breakfast – instead, toss them into your compost bin to help nourish your garden.

7. Wild bird food

As a responsible animal lover, you might be well aware of the importance of proper nutrition for your pets. But did you know that wild birds can also benefit from your kindness? Yes, you can show a little love to these beautiful creatures by providing them with some nourishment.

Feeding wild birds is not only a compassionate act, but it also offers an opportunity to observe their fascinating behavior up close. To get started, you can follow the same simple steps that you would when feeding your chickens.

First, collect some eggshells and bake them in the oven to sterilize them. Once they’re dry, crush them into small pieces, and sprinkle them in your bird feed mix or scatter them on the ground. This will provide the birds with a good source of calcium, which is essential for their health and wellbeing.

Not only does this activity help to support the local ecosystem and encourage bird diversity, but it can also be a great way to introduce young children to nature and teach them about the importance of respecting and caring for all creatures.

So, the next time you’re in the kitchen, remember to save your eggshells and give a little boost to our feathered friends in the wild. They will surely appreciate your kind gesture!

8. Boil eggshells in your coffee

If you’re a coffee enthusiast and are always on the lookout for new ways to enhance your coffee experience, here’s an unexpected hack for you: crushed eggshells!

Yes, you read that right. Eggshells can actually serve two great purposes when it comes to coffee brewing.

Firstly, if you’re out in the wilderness and making campfire coffee over high heat, adding crushed eggshells can prevent the coffee grounds from boiling over. This may not be a common issue for most coffee drinkers, but it’s a helpful tip to keep in mind for those roughing it outdoors.

Secondly, eggshells can be used to create a less acidic cup of coffee. If you’ve ever been disappointed by the overwhelming bitterness of a poorly brewed cup of coffee, or if you’re looking to reduce acidity in your diet, adding powdered or finely crushed eggshells can come to your rescue. Just one eggshell is enough to enhance the flavor of four cups of coffee!

Additionally, if you’re someone who prefers dairy-free options and is concerned about getting enough calcium in your diet, adding eggshells to your coffee can be a great way to sneak in some extra calcium into your daily routine.

To try this unique coffee hack, simply collect and sterilize some eggshells, crush them into small pieces or powder, and add them to your coffee grounds before brewing. You’ll be amazed by how much of a difference it makes to the taste and quality of your coffee.

In conclusion, next time you’re in search of a simple and effective way to improve your coffee experience, don’t forget to give eggshells a chance. Your taste buds, and perhaps even your health, will thank you for it!

9. Toss eggshells in your bone broth or stock pot

As a home cook, you may already know the importance of using high-quality ingredients to create delicious and nutritious dishes. But have you ever considered adding eggshells to your broths and stocks? If not, you’re in for a pleasant surprise!

Eggshells are an excellent source of calcium, and they also contain other essential minerals such as magnesium, fluoride, selenium, zinc, iron, and phosphorus. By incorporating eggshells into your broth or stock, you’re not only enhancing its nutritional value, but you’re also minimizing food waste by utilizing every part of the egg.

The best part? Adding eggshells to your broth or stock won’t alter the flavor in any way, but you’ll definitely feel the nutritional boost. So whether you’re whipping up a batch of hearty vegetable stock or simmering a pot of bone broth, don’t hesitate to throw in some eggshells.

To use eggshells in your broth or stock, simply collect and sterilize them by baking them in the oven, then crush them into small pieces or powder. Add the eggshells to your broth or stock pot and let them simmer along with the other ingredients. Once the broth or stock is ready, simply strain out the eggshells, and voila! You’ve created a nutrient-dense and flavorful base for your soups, stews, and sauces.

In conclusion, adding eggshells to your broth or stock is an easy and affordable way to boost its nutritional value while reducing food waste. So the next time you’re in the kitchen, don’t throw away those eggshells. Instead, put them to good use and elevate your cooking game to the next level!

10. Add them to your apple cider vinegar

Looking for a natural remedy that can help ease acid reflux and alleviate skin irritations? Look no further than your kitchen pantry! By combining dried eggshells and apple cider vinegar with the mother, you can create a powerful tincture that offers a host of health benefits.

To make the tincture, simply add dried eggshells to a jar of apple cider vinegar and let nature do the rest. Over time, the eggshells will release their calcium and other minerals into the vinegar, creating a potent and healing elixir.

When ingested, the tincture can help reduce acid reflux and promote healthy digestion. It can also be used topically to treat minor skin irritations and relieve itchy skin. The best part? This natural remedy is safe, affordable, and easy to make at home.

To use the tincture, simply take a teaspoonful before meals to alleviate acid reflux, or apply it topically to affected areas of the skin. Be sure to shake the jar well before each use to ensure that the eggshell particles are evenly distributed throughout the vinegar.

In conclusion, by combining eggshells and apple cider vinegar with the mother, you can create a powerful tincture that offers a variety of health benefits. Whether you’re looking to soothe acid reflux or alleviate skin irritations, this natural remedy is a safe and effective option that you can easily make at home. So why not give it a try and experience the healing power of nature for yourself?

10. Add them to your apple cider vinegar

Incorporating natural remedies into your wellness routine can be a fantastic way to address common health concerns without relying on chemical-laden products. One such remedy that you can easily whip up at home involves combining dried eggshells and apple cider vinegar with the mother.

By simply adding eggshells to a jar of apple cider vinegar and letting the mixture sit, you can create a potent tincture that offers a range of therapeutic benefits. The calcium and other minerals present in the eggshells infuse the vinegar, resulting in a powerful elixir that can help alleviate acid reflux and promote healthy digestion. Additionally, when applied topically, this tincture can help soothe minor skin irritations and relieve itching.

Creating this all-natural remedy is simple and affordable, and it allows you to harness the healing power of nature without any harmful side effects. So why not give it a try and see for yourself how this easy-to-make tincture can help you look and feel your best?

11. Homemade eggshell toothpaste

When it comes to oral health, making the switch from conventional toothpaste to a more natural alternative can be a game changer. Once you’ve experienced the benefits of ditching the minty fluoride toothpaste loaded with unpronounceable ingredients, you’ll never want to go back.

Fortunately, there are plenty of all-natural options to choose from that can help keep your teeth clean, healthy, and happy. From activated charcoal to clay and zeolite, to baking soda blended with coconut oil and essential oils, the choices are endless.

Not only are these natural alternatives free of harsh chemicals and artificial additives, but they can also be incredibly effective at promoting optimal oral health. So if you’re ready to take your dental care to the next level, why not give one of these natural options a try and see the difference for yourself?

12. Make an eggshell face mask

If you’re looking for a natural and cost-effective way to nourish and tighten your skin, look no further than your kitchen! Believe it or not, eggshells can be transformed into a powerful face mask that will leave your skin looking and feeling revitalized.

To make your own eggshell face mask, start by crushing your dried eggshells into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle. Next, whisk an egg white until it becomes somewhat stiff, and then add the eggshell powder to the mixture. Spread the mask over your face, allowing it to dry completely. Finally, rinse it off with cold water and admire the stunning results.

This all-natural face mask is a great way to take care of your skin without exposing it to harmful chemicals or breaking the bank. Plus, the calcium and other minerals in the eggshells can help nourish your skin, while the egg white helps tighten and firm it. So why not give it a try and see how this simple DIY mask can give you the glowing, healthy skin you deserve?

14. Scrub your tough-to-clean pots

If you’re faced with a dirty pot or vase that seems impossible to clean, don’t despair! The solution may be simpler than you think. All you need are some eggshells, hot water, and a bit of soap.

To clean a dirty pot, simply crush a few eggshells into the pot, along with soap and hot water. As you scrub the surface, the shells will act as a natural abrasive, helping to break up and remove even the toughest dirt and grime.

But the benefits of eggshells don’t stop there. If you have a vase or other glass surface that’s difficult to clean, you can use crushed eggshells to achieve a sparkling, glistening finish. Simply add some eggshells to the vase along with some water and a bit of soap, and then shake vigorously to remove any buildup or residue.

Not only are eggshells a natural and effective cleaning solution, but they’re also a great way to repurpose something that might otherwise go to waste. So next time you’re facing a tough cleaning challenge, don’t forget to reach for the eggshells and discover the power of this simple yet versatile ingredient.

What kind of eggshells to use?

Eggshells are an often overlooked source of calcium, and making your own eggshell powder is an easy and cost-effective way to supplement your diet. However, not all eggshells are created equal. For optimal health benefits, it’s important to use eggshells from organic or free-range chickens, which are more nutritious and less likely to carry harmful pathogens.

If you don’t have your own chickens, consider purchasing eggs from a local farmer or farmers market. Don’t be afraid to try eggshells from other types of birds as well, such as ducks, turkeys, or quails.

To make your own eggshell powder, start by setting aside your cracked eggshells until you have enough to process at once. Rinse them thoroughly, and then sterilize them in boiling water for a few minutes. Once sterilized, strain and remove the shells and spread them out on a baking sheet to air dry for a few hours or overnight.

Once dry, bake the shells at a low temperature (250-300 F) for about 10 minutes until they are nice and rattly. After the shells have cooled, grind them in a coffee or spice grinder, food processor, or mortar and pestle until they are finely ground. Store the powder in an airtight glass jar in your pantry or cupboard.

If your eggshell powder feels too gritty, blend it further or use it in baked goods and energy bars where it can blend in unnoticed. Alternatively, you can add some powder to your apple cider vinegar and drink one tablespoon of eggshell-infused vinegar every day as part of your healthy wake-up routine.

By using organic or free-range eggshells and following these simple steps, you can easily create your own calcium supplement that is both healthy and cost-effective.