10 Awesome Uses for Used Coffee Grounds

Before you empty the coffee pot’s grounds into the trash, consider the following [healthy and awesome] options:

1. As an exfoliant. The rough texture of the coffee grounds can be used on your skin as a scrub. Coffee scrubs are all the rage. Just mix 1/2 cup coffee grounds and 1/2 cup sugar (any kind) with 1/4 cup coconut oil in a small jar with lid. Work into wet skin, and rinse.

2. Polish cookware: Use it to scrape your dishes clean and get rid of any food build up. Just make sure not to use it on any porous material, as it will absorb into it, and cause brown stains.

3. Neutralize refrigerator odors. Placing coffee grounds in the refrigerator acts as a natural deodorizer. The only thing you need to watch for is mold if you use damp grounds. Replace immediately with fresher grounds if it turns into a science experiment.

4. Reduce the appearance of cellulite: Warm 1/4 cup ground coffee for 30 seconds in the microwave. Add 2 tbsp of olive oil as a binder. Cleanse problem areas in a warm shower, then apply the scrub by massaging in a circular motion for two to four minutes with your hands or a washcloth. Rinse with warm water and pat dry. As a stimulant, the caffeine dilates blood vessels, temporarily toning and tightening tissue. Plus, it increases circulation and reduces water retention, helping to smooth the look of cellulite.

5. Fertilize plants: It is biodegradable and makes a great fertilizer as it has high magnesium, nitrogen, potassium and calcium content. It will enrich your soil and make it more fertile. They can be mixed in with compost for added nutrition.

6. Clean floors: When sweeping a dusty cement floor or fireplace, spread coffee grounds on the dirt or ashes, then sweep. This will keep the dust from flying around!

7. When bathing your dog, add a tablespoon of used coffee grounds to the shampoo to help repel fleas.

8. Highlight hair naturally Brunettes and darker redheads can turn up the shine in their hair by rinsing dry, clean hair with strong, cooled coffee. Steep used coffee grounds in 2 cups hot water for 15 minutes or so and then rinse through hair for a darker, more vibrant shine. You can also pour 1-2 tablespoons straight into your conditioner. Not recommended for blonde or silver hair.

9. Keep away critters: Spread used coffee grounds any place where ants might be entering your house, or toss a handful of grounds in your garden to keep slugs and snails away from plants.

10. Make your own urbanized inspired soap by melting a bar of glycerin soap and adding 1/3 cup coffee grounds, reshape bar in a mold and use. Great scrubbing and exfoliating action at the same time!