Can you put coffee grounds down the drain? (+13 Ways to reuse)

In this article, we will answer the question “Can you put coffee grounds down the drain?”, and how to reuse coffee grounds?

Can you put coffee grounds down the drain?

No, you should never put the coffee grounds down the drain. Because they tend to stick to form clumps or attach to the grease buildup, eventually clogging the drain pipes. Read on If you want to know how to dispose of coffee grounds safely.

How to reuse coffee grounds?

Use them as a fertilizer

Plants need fertilizers for optimum growth because they are constantly using up the nutrients in the soil. If the soil runs out of nutrients, the plant will wilt to death. This is where the coffee grounds come to the rescue. Just add the used coffee grounds to the soil. Coffee grounds impart essential minerals to the soil including nitrogen, calcium, potassium, iron, phosphorus, magnesium, and chromium.

Coffee grounds also serve as food for worms. Hence, you can use coffee grounds to feed the worms you have kept in the soil for vermicomposting.

Turn them into compost

If you do not need the fertilizer yet, you can turn the coffee grounds into compost. Compost is a simple decomposition process that converts the organic material into a humus that is rich in nutrients. 

You can compost food scraps and other kitchen waste along with coffee grounds. It is not recommended to compost dead plants, grease, dairy, and meat products. Plants grown on compost made from kitchen waste and coffee grounds have been observed to flourish.

Use them as an insect and pest repellent

Compounds like Caffeine and Diterpenes, present in coffee, repel insects and pests. Used grounds can be used to scare off insects like mosquitos, fruit flies, and beetles. They can also deter snails and slugs if you sprinkle some coffee grounds around plants. 

You can keep bowls filled with coffee grounds in places where insects and pests are most seen. Alternatively, you can sprinkle some grounds on the floor.

Get rid of pet fleas

You can use coffee grounds to get rid of fleas from your pet. Scrub your pet with coffee grounds after shampooing and rinse off. This also adds smoothness and shine to the pet’s coat. If the flea problem is persistent and severe, contact a vet for proper treatment.

Get rid of unpleasant odors

Due to the presence of nitrogen, coffee grounds act as an excellent deodorizer. Keep bowls filled with used coffee grounds anywhere you have a door issue like shoes, socks, gym bag, pantyhose, bedroom drawers, fridge or under your car seat, etc. you can keep the sock filled with coffee grounds as a portable natural deodorizer.

Use them for scrubbing

Due to their uneven and rough surface, you can use the coffee ground to scrub your sink or pots and pans, polish your cookware, or scour your grill. They clean the stubborn stains and leave the surface shining.

Exfoliate your skin

The caffeine is the coffee grounds protects the skin against sun damage. The abrasive action of coffee grounds can be used to exfoliate your skin. Combine the grounds with some honey or coconut oil and gently exfoliate your skin using your fingertips.

Get rid of cellulite

Cellulite is a common problem in women. Ir occurs mostly around the buttocks and thighs. Combine coffee grounds with some coconut oil and gently rub the cellulite area for 10 minutes. Do this twice per week for best results. Caffeine helps breakdown the fat and increases blood flow to that area.

Use them as a natural dye

Coffee grounds can be used as a natural dye that is non-toxic, chemical-free, and economical. Coffee can stain materials like cotton, rayon, cellophane, linen, and paper. It can be used to dye Easter eggs and even hair.

Clean your fireplace

Sprinkle some coffee grounds on the ashes after burning wood in your fireplace. It prevents excessive smoke from forming and keep the dust from spreading to other parts of your home.

Meat tenderizer

The acids and enzymes present in coffee help tenderize the meat fibers. Add the brewed coffee to the meat marinade or add the used coffee grounds to the dry-rub for your meat.

Repair scratched furniture

Combine ground coffee and water to make a thick paste. Dab this over your furniture scratches using cotton. The color of coffee helps conceal minor scratches.

Get rid of dark circles 

Apply coffee grounds mixed with coconut oil under your eyes to get rid of puffiness and dark circles.

Other FAQs about Coffee which you may be interested in.

How many cups of coffee can I make from a pound of ground coffee?

How long does coffee stay good in the fridge?

Conclusion

In this article, we answered the question “Can you put coffee grounds down the drain?”, and how to reuse coffee grounds?

References

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/uses-for-coffee-grounds#TOC_TITLE_HDR_13