Used coffee grounds? Do not throw them away

2021-06-10

Do you drink one, two or perhaps three coffees every day? Here is the important question: where do the used grounds end up — in the bin or down the drain? If you have always thought those were the only places for them, it is time to reconsider. Coffee grounds have remarkable potential and are now used in many areas of everyday life. Want to know more?

Use coffee grounds in the garden

Used coffee grounds contain valuable elements such as nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium and copper. This means they can supply some of these nutrients to garden plants. They are regarded as a slow-release fertiliser: the substances are released gradually, supporting healthy plant growth. Coffee grounds are particularly associated with acid-loving plants because they have a slightly acidic reaction after brewing. If you grow azaleas, rhododendrons, hydrangeas, magnolias, heathers or blueberries near your home, consider using these coffee leftovers around them. Your plants may reward you with better growth.

Coffee grounds can also benefit the soil itself by improving its structure. This is associated with better aeration and greater absorbency, which matters when it comes to storing water.

Coffee grounds against slugs — fact or myth? This method is presented as a useful one: spread the grounds where slugs are a problem, either preventively or when they appear. Their strong smell is intended to deter these unwelcome visitors. Give it a try!

There are several ways to use grounds in the garden: as the fertiliser described above, scattered on a lawn, or as a valuable addition to compost when planting or moving plants.

A thoughtful alternative: grounds instead of salt on pavements

In 2021, Polish cities — particularly Kraków, inspired by Lviv — used or tested coffee grounds instead of salt on icy pavements. The initiative was welcomed by supporters of environmentally friendly, economical solutions and by dog owners. As we know, winter pavement salt can affect our four-legged companions.

Cafés, pizzerias and other businesses also supported the campaign, donating dozens of kilograms of used coffee grounds.

The idea of grounds replacing salt and sand sparked discussion among experts from different scientific fields. They point out that, while using grounds on pavements has advantages, it is not without drawbacks. We cannot yet call it an ideal, groundbreaking replacement for salt or sand, but it remains an interesting experiment. Let us hope for more ideas like it! The fact that people suggested it, put it into practice and responded positively shows how important recycling, ecology and care for our planet have become. Well done!

Beauty care: coffee grounds for your face and hair

At a time when natural homemade cosmetics are increasingly valued, coffee scrubs, face masks and hair rinses are hardly surprising. They are frequently researched, especially by women wanting to care for their appearance, skin or hair at home. We know this well, which is why we prepared a separate article: Coffee cosmetics you can make at home.

Unpleasant smells? Coffee grounds can help

Coffee grounds are an excellent odour neutraliser. Ground coffee is often suggested for removing unpleasant smells from a refrigerator. Simply put a small amount of grounds in a bag or container and place it inside the fridge. It is a simple trick worth trying.

You can use a similar approach for footwear. Dried coffee grounds can freshen shoes and neutralise unpleasant odours. Put the grounds in a bag, place it inside each shoe and leave overnight. Remove the bags in the morning and shake the shoes out thoroughly to be sure. We think this inexpensive, safe method may become a regular habit.

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