Many people start their day with the inviting and rich aroma of a freshly-brewed coffee.
What is the best method to dispose of the coffee grounds once you have drunk the coffee?
Can I dispose of coffee grounds in the sink?
It is a common misconception that you should pour them into the sink. Some even claim that this will help to break down any stuck food particles in the pipes. In reality, it isn’t true. Plumbing experts claim that this may have a detrimental effect and damage the plumbing. Coffee grounds can cause blockages because they tend to clump together.
Compost can be made from coffee grounds
There are several safe ways to get rid of them, which also have many benefits for your home. Coffee grounds are a great addition to compost because they contain a lot of nitrogen. This can help enrich the soil. According to studies, compost batches that contain 40 percent coffee grounds produce the least greenhouse gas emissions as well as the highest quality compost.
Coffee grounds make it easier to scrub.
The coffee grounds can also be used to scrub hard-to-clean surfaces, such as stovetops or well-used pots. They can be used to scrub caked on food because of their slightly abrasive texture. They can also help sanitise due to their antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties.
On the topic of cleaning, coffee grains can be used to remove ashes from wood-burning fires. Just sprinkle used coffee over the ashes and they will quickly become heavier, preventing dust from forming and making it easier to remove.
Use coffee grounds to repel insects
Research shows that used coffee grounds may contain toxic properties for certain insects. They can be used as an insect repellent to keep ants away and may also deter mosquitoes. Sprinkle moistened coffee grounds on obvious insect areas such as patios, garden or outdoor areas. Be sure to keep the grounds fresh to prevent unwanted mould.
So next time you brew a welcome pot of coffee, consider how the used grounds can be used in your home or garden to perform a natural ‘little miracle’.
How can you make the best of coffee grounds?