Eggshells are often thrown away, but they can be reused in simple and practical ways. As the article states, “Eggshells are often treated as kitchen waste, but with a little preparation they can become a helpful resource for your home and garden.” They are naturally rich in calcium, sturdy in texture, and fit well into a low-waste lifestyle without requiring special tools or products.
Before reuse, proper cleaning is important. The article explains, “Before reusing eggshells, it is important to sanitize them.” After rinsing away egg residue, the shells should be boiled for “about ten to fifteen minutes,” then drained and left to dry completely. Once dry, they can be stored safely until needed.
Prepared eggshells are commonly used in gardening. “Crushed shells can be mixed into compost or sprinkled lightly into garden soil to contribute natural minerals over time.” Larger shell pieces may also be placed around plants to slow crawling pests. Half shells can even be used as seed starters and planted directly into the ground as seedlings grow.
In the kitchen, eggshells have cleaning uses as well. According to the article, “finely crushed shells mixed with soapy water can act as a gentle cleaning scrub for cookware or sinks,” providing a biodegradable alternative to chemical scrubbers.
The article also cautions that eggshells are not medical treatments. “They should not replace professional medical supplements or treatments,” and abrasive use should be avoided on delicate surfaces. Used thoughtfully, eggshells can reduce waste and add small but useful benefits to everyday routines.