For years, the moment I cracked open an egg, the shells went straight into the trash without a second thought. Lately, I’ve realized that was a wasteful habit. Those fragile shells I used to toss so carelessly actually have a lot of value — both for the garden and even for my health.
Eggshells are made up of about 95 percent calcium carbonate, with the remaining 5 percent including minerals like magnesium, potassium, zinc, and iron. These are the same nutrients that help keep bones, teeth, and nails strong. Structurally, an eggshell has three protective layers: the hard outer layer made of calcium crystals, and two inner membranes rich in keratin proteins that guard against bacteria.
If you’ve been throwing your eggshells away, it might be time to stop. Here are thirteen clever and practical ways to use them — and if you find them helpful, share them with your friends. They’ll thank you for it.
1. Eating eggshells
Start by washing the shells well to remove any egg residue. Boil them for about 10 minutes to kill any bacteria like Salmonella. Once they’re sterilized, let them dry completely — you can air-dry them on a clean towel or bake them at a low temperature (around 200°F or 93°C) for 10 to 15 minutes until crisp.
After drying, crush the shells into a fine powder using a blender, coffee grinder, or mortar and pestle. The finer the powder, the easier it is for your body to absorb the calcium.
2. Adding eggshell powder to food
You can mix powdered eggshells into food without affecting the flavor. A small pinch — about half a teaspoon — can be stirred into smoothies, oatmeal, yogurt, soups, or even sprinkled over salads. It can also be added to baked goods.
Just be careful not to overdo it. Too much calcium can put stress on your kidneys, so use it in moderation.
3. Enriching soil
If you’d rather not eat your eggshells, your garden will gladly take them. Crushed eggshells break down quickly and release calcium and trace minerals that nourish the soil. Over time, they can significantly improve its nutrient quality.
4. Soothing skin irritation
Crush some eggshells and soak them in apple cider vinegar for a few days. The calcium-enriched mixture can be applied to help calm minor skin irritations and promote healing — a simple, natural home remedy.
5. Improving drainage
When planting, drop a few eggshells into the soil at the bottom of the hole. They’ll help increase air circulation and drainage around the roots, keeping plants healthy. You’ll need to replace them periodically as they decompose.
6. A natural scrub
Crushed eggshells make a gentle, eco-friendly abrasive cleaner. Use them to scrub pots, vases, or pans with stubborn residue. They’re effective without the need for harsh chemicals.
7. Supporting tomatoes and peppers
Plants like tomatoes, eggplants, and peppers can suffer from calcium deficiency, which causes blossom-end rot. Burying eggshells in the soil helps replenish calcium, preventing this problem and encouraging stronger growth.
8. Repelling snails and slugs
Scatter crushed eggshells around plants, flowers, or crops to deter snails and slugs. Their sharp edges create a barrier that pests avoid — no chemicals needed.
9. Keeping deer away
If you live in an area where deer visit your garden, eggshells can help there too. Deer dislike their smell and tend to steer clear of areas where eggshells are scattered.
10. Seed starter pods
Rinsed eggshell halves make perfect biodegradable seed pots. Place them in a carton by a sunny window, fill with soil, and plant your seeds. As the seedlings grow, transplant them directly into the garden — shell and all — giving the plants a natural calcium boost. Make a small hole at the bottom for the roots to expand.
11. Feeding birds
Crushed eggshells are rich in calcium, which is essential for birds, especially during nesting season. Sprinkle some in your yard to attract birds that, in turn, help with natural pest control.
12. Balancing soil pH
Soil pH can influence flower color — hydrangeas, for example, change from pink to blue depending on acidity. If your soil is too acidic, crushed eggshells can help neutralize it and restore balance.
13. Adding to compost
Eggshells are a great addition to compost piles. Crush them before tossing them in so they break down faster and release nutrients more efficiently.
By reusing eggshells, you can reduce waste, improve your garden, and even benefit your health — all with minimal effort. Share these ideas with friends so they can get the most out of their breakfast leftovers too