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10 Ways to Reuse Coffee Grounds


  1. Pest Repellent – coffee grounds are a natural repellent to many insects. Place coffee grounds at the point of entry of the insects and it will deter them from returning.
  2. Homemade Wood Stain – this alternative to chemical wood stains may be limited in terms of color, but it is incredibly effective, safe and organic. For the recipe go to: http://groundtoground.org/2012/10/25/reusing-coffee-grounds-as-wood-stain/
  3. Deodorizing Flower Vase - put your fresh cut flowers in a mason jar using coffee grounds as “soil.” The coffee grounds along with the scent given off from the flowers will naturally deodorize the room.
  4. Refrigerator Deodorizer – place coffee grounds in a mason jar and put it in your fridge. The coffee naturally deodorizes the space much like baking soda does.
  5. Exfoliating Scrub – create a do-it-yourself face scrub to slough off dead skin cells and unclog your pores. For the recipe go to: https://bellalimento.com/
  6. Natural Fertilizer – make a coffee ground “tea” to be used in your garden and potted plants as a liquid fertilizer. Add 2 cups of used grounds to a 5 gallon bucket of water and allow to steep overnight.
  7. Keep Cats Away – spread coffee grounds around the base of your garden to prevent cats from digging.
  8. Add Shine to Hair – work coffee grounds into clean, wet hair and massage for a few minutes, then rinse. The coffee grounds will condition your hair naturally, add shine, and for brunettes, you get the added benefit of highlights.
  9. Face Mask – a coffee and cocoa face mask will decrease puffiness in the face and eye area while brightening your skin. For the recipe go to: http://beauty.about.com/od/homemadefacemaskrecipes/r/Coffee-And-Cocoa-Facial-Mask-For-All-Face-Types.htm
  10. Hide Furniture Scratches – dip a cotton swab into steeped coffee grounds and dab it on the scratch (for dark wood furniture). It will take the “harsh” appearance of the scratch away. To be safe, test it on a small spot first.


*Please note that coffee grounds will become moldy within a few weeks if stored damp. They can be dried out before being stored by laying them out on a paper towel. The grounds do not need to be dried first if they will be used in the garden.


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