Unusual Uses for Eggshells in Your Garden, Kitchen and Home
June 7, 2023
source: Pexels
Eggshells are more than mere shells; they’re like nature’s clever containers! They do more than just hold the yummy yolk and egg white inside. These little wonders are actually 95% calcium carbonate, which is similar to what our bones and teeth are made of. Eggshells naturally strengthen our bones and safeguard our tooth enamel.
But here’s the cool part: we can actually eat the entire egg, including the shells! Just like you can munch on the peels of organic bananas or lemons, eggshells are edible too. They’re an amazing source of calcium, and just half an eggshell provides you with your daily recommended intake of calcium. So, instead of tossing them out, why not put them to good use?
Instead of throwing away those shells, save them and use them in your home and garden. Let’s explore some fun and clever ways to make the most of those eggshells:
1. Compost material: Eggshells are a fantastic addition to your compost pile. The calcium content helps improve the quality of the compost. So, don’t toss those shells in the trash—recycle them into nutrient-rich compost.
2. Start seedlings indoors: Say goodbye to plastic pots! Eggshells make the perfect biodegradable containers for starting your seedlings. Fill them halfway with soil, plant your seeds, and place the eggshells back in the carton to keep them in place. When the seedlings are ready, you can transplant the whole thing into your garden. The shells will break down, adding calcium to the soil.
3. Garden mulch: After enjoying your breakfast, crush those eggshells and sprinkle them in your garden. As they decompose, they’ll improve water flow and aerate the soil while releasing calcium.
4. Boost your tomatoes: Give your tomatoes a calcium boost by placing eggshells directly under the plants. This helps prevent a condition called blossom-end rot. And guess what? Other plants like cabbage and broccoli will also benefit from the calcium in eggshells.
5. Deter pests in the garden: Slugs and snails love to feast on your garden greens, but you can put a stop to that. Scatter roughly crushed eggshells around the base of your plants. The critters won’t enjoy the sharp edges, and your greens will be safe.
6. Feed your chickens: If you have chickens, don’t throw away the eggshells! Crush them lightly, bake until brittle, and then serve them to your chickens. They need calcium for healthy eggs, and the shells provide just that. Plus, it’s a great way to prevent them from eating their own eggs.
7. Scrub tough-to-clean pots: When you’re faced with a stubbornly dirty pot, grab a handful of crushed eggshells. Add some soap and hot water, and scrub away. The abrasive shells will help remove the dirt, leaving your pots squeaky clean.
8. Campfire coffee savior: If you’re making coffee over a campfire, crushed eggshells can prevent the grounds from boiling over. And here’s a bonus—eggshells added to coffee reduce its acidity. So, if you’re looking for a less bitter cup, give it a try.
9. Supercharge your broths: Whether you’re making bone broth or vegetable stock, adding eggshells can give them a nutritional boost. Eggshells contain not only calcium but also other minerals like magnesium, fluoride, selenium, zinc, iron. Your broths will be even more nutritious!
10. Wild bird food: Just like your chickens, wild birds can benefit from eggshells too. Bake and crush the shells into small pieces, then sprinkle them in their feed or on the ground. It’s a little treat for our feathered friends.
11. Whiten your laundry: Want to brighten up your whites without using chlorine bleach? Try tossing some eggshells in a bag with a few slices of lemon. Then throw it in the washing machine. It’s an inexpensive and natural way to keep your laundry looking fresh.
So, why should we eat eggshells? Well, besides the bio-available calcium they offer, they can also improve bone density, remineralize teeth, and even relieve joint pain and inflammation.
To ensure you’re eating the healthiest eggshells, opt for ones from organic or free-range chickens. Eggs from factory farms may be less nutritious and could carry unwanted pathogens. So, support local farmers or visit the farmers market for the best farm-fresh eggs.
Now you know how versatile and valuable eggshells can be. Don’t let them go to waste—give them a new life in your garden, kitchen, and home. Happy eggshell adventures!