How to Use Eggshells

Eggshells are one of those common household items that are often overlooked for their versatility and function in the home and garden. While it is most common to simply toss an eggshell into the trash without a second thought, you may want to consider saving those shells from this point forward.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. Place a tablespoon or two of dried broken eggshells into a thermos, vase or other hard to clean container. Add a bit of water, cover and shake vigorously. The eggshells will gently and efficiently clean residues and stains that dish soap alone will not remove. Adding eggshells to a greasy pan will also help to remove stuck or baked on food.

2. Add a spoonful of eggshells to your coffee grounds for a smooth cup of coffee. The calcium in the eggshell helps to reduce the acidity of coffee and will also help any loose grounds sink to the bottom of the cup. The eggshell and coffee grounds trick is especially helpful when making coffee in an old percolator or in a pot while camping.

3. Sprinkle eggshells around your garden plants and vegetables. Not only will the calcium content of the shells help to fertilize your garden, they will help deter snails and slugs. You might also use eggshells to mark the rows of your freshly planted garden.

4. Paint the outside of an egg and save the painted shells for craft projects and mosaics. Eggshell finishes are some of the most sought out styles of antique furniture, and with a little glue, some eggshells, patience and clear lacquer, you can create your own beautiful eggshell finish. Kids, too, will love making beautiful works of art with a little glue and some brightly colored eggshells.