Reduce Waste

Here at Seed to Bean, we believe every action we take regarding wastes affects everyone. Recycling used coffee grounds is important to the environment, plus it provides beans a new purpose. There are many ways to recycle used coffee grounds, here are some examples we think will be useful for you and your home:

Composting

Coffee grounds are rich in nitrogen, which makes them a great addition to a compost pile. They can help speed up the composting process and improve soil quality.

Fertilizer

Used coffee grounds can be used as a natural fertilizer for plants. Simply sprinkle the grounds around the base of your plants and work them into the soil.

Here's how you can make a natural fertilizer using coffee grounds:

  1. Collect used coffee grounds: Save your used coffee grounds in a container. You can also ask local coffee shops if they can give you their used coffee grounds, as many of them would be happy to give them away for free.
  2. Dry the coffee grounds: Spread the used coffee grounds out on a flat surface and let them dry completely. Drying the coffee grounds will prevent them from getting moldy or attracting pests.
  3. Add to the soil: Once the coffee grounds are dry, you can add them directly to your garden soil or potted plants. Simply sprinkle the coffee grounds on top of the soil and mix them in gently.
  4. Water the plants: Water your plants as usual to help the coffee grounds release their nutrients into the soil.

    Note: It's important not to use too many coffee grounds at once, as they can make the soil too acidic and harm your plants. Use coffee grounds in moderation and monitor your plants' health.

    Pest repellent

    Coffee grounds can be used to repel pests such as ants, slugs, and snails. Simply sprinkle the grounds around the areas where these pests are found.

    Cleaning

    Coffee grounds can be used as a natural abrasive cleaner for pots and pans. They can also be used to clean and deodorize kitchen and bathroom drains.

    Body scrub

    Coffee grounds can be used as a natural exfoliant for the skin. Mix them with coconut oil or another carrier oil and use as a body scrub in the shower. Recipe for body scrub:

    Ingredients:

    1/2 cup granulated sugar
    1/2 cup used coffee grounds
    1/4 cup coconut oil
    1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
    Instructions:
    1. In a mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and used coffee grounds.
    2. Add the coconut oil to the mixture and stir until well combined.
    3. Add the vanilla extract (if desired) and mix again.
    4. Transfer the mixture to an airtight container for storage.
    5. To use, scoop out a small amount of the coffee sugar scrub and massage it onto your skin in circular motions.
    6. Rinse off with warm water and pat your skin dry.
              • Note: This coffee sugar scrub is best used on your body and not your face, as the coarseness of the coffee grounds may be too rough for delicate facial skin.

                Odor neutralizer

                Coffee grounds can help absorb and neutralize odors in the home. Place a bowl of used coffee grounds in your fridge or freezer to help absorb unwanted smells.

                Candle making

                Coffee grounds can be used to make homemade candles. Mix them with melted wax and pour into a container with a wick. Here's a recipe for making two homemade candles with coffee grounds:

                Materials:

                1 pound of soy wax flakes
                1/2 cup of dried coffee grounds
                2 candle wicks
                2 glass jars (As a general rule of thumb, you'll need glass jars that can hold about 8-10 ounces of wax to make two medium-sized candles)
                Wooden skewer or chopstick
                Double boiler or a makeshift one (e.g., a heatproof bowl over a pot of boiling water)
                Wooden spoon or stirrer
                Essential oils (optional)

                  Instructions:

                  1. Begin by preparing your work area. Cover your workspace with newspaper or a tablecloth to protect it from any spills or drips.
                  2. Melt the soy wax flakes in a double boiler or makeshift one. Make sure to use a heat-resistant container for melting the wax. Alternatively, you can melt the wax in a microwave, following the instructions on the packaging.
                  3. Once the wax is melted, add coffee grounds to the mixture. Stir well with a wooden spoon or stirrer until the coffee grounds are evenly distributed in the wax.
                  4. Add a few drops of essential oils, such as vanilla or cinnamon, to give the candle a pleasant scent (optional).
                  5. Place the wick at the center of the container and hold it in place using a wooden skewer or chopstick. Make sure the wick is centered and straight.
                  6. Pour the melted wax and coffee grounds mixture into the container slowly, making sure not to spill any wax outside of the container. Fill the container to about ½ inch below the top.
                  7. Let the candle cool and harden for several hours or overnight. Trim the wick to about ¼ inch above the wax.
                  8. Light the candle and enjoy the coffee aroma as it burns.

                    Note: Adding coffee grounds to the wax can create a slightly uneven burn, so keep an eye on the candle while it's burning and make sure to trim the wick regularly to prevent soot buildup.