12 Surprising Ways to Use Steeped Tea Bags Around the Home
Don’t discard those used tea bags just yet!
Brewing a cup of tea is a simple pleasure enjoyed by many. However, many individuals overlook the remarkable uses of tea bags after they’ve steeped that perfect cup.
Instead of tossing your used tea bags, consider these twelve surprising and beneficial ways to incorporate them into your household routine.
From freshening up spaces to enhancing your gardening efforts, these clever applications of used tea bags will leave you amazed.
Ken Doty, COO and Cleaning Expert at The Maids, insists that used tea bags are not just waste. “There are numerous cleaning tasks that they can assist with,” he says.
1. Simmering Potpourri
Want to fill your home with delightful aromas? Used tea bags can do just that! Katie Burnett, head of product and marketing at Smith Teamaker, recommends making stovetop potpourri.
“Try simmering sachets of chai with a few slices of orange and fresh ginger, or combine peppermint with rosemary and lemon slices for a refreshing scent,” she advises. This method is an easy way to enjoy the fragrant benefits of tea while creating a warm atmosphere in your home.
2. Degrease Dishes
Dealing with greasy pots and pans can be frustrating. Luckily, tea bags come to the rescue! Doty suggests placing dirty dishes in a sink filled with warm water.
Toss in a few used tea bags and allow them to soak for a few hours, or even overnight. “The tannic acid in tea breaks down grease and leftover food residues,” he explains. This simple method makes cleaning a breeze.
3. Freshen Up the Fridge
Move over, baking soda—tea bags are here to help! To eliminate unpleasant odours in your refrigerator, try using dried tea bags.
Place them in a small bowl and cut a slit in each bag to release the tea leaves inside. The tea leaves will absorb unwanted smells, leaving your fridge smelling fresh and clean.
4. Composting and Gardening
Did you know that tea leaves are beneficial for your garden? Many tea sachets are compostable, but Burnett suggests breaking them open and directly adding the leaves to your plants.
This natural fertiliser adds essential nutrients to your soil, promoting healthier plant growth. Incorporating tea leaves into your compost system can also enhance the quality of your garden soil.
5. Scrub Stuck-On Food
Nothing is more annoying than baked-on cheese stuck to a pan. Here, used tea bags can be your best friend! The tannic acid present in tea makes it easier to clean stubborn food residues.
Simply rub the used tea bag over the stuck-on food, and it will come off with little effort.
6. Cleaning Glass and Mirrors
For a streak-free shine, consider using used tea bags to clean your glass surfaces. Since tea leaves effectively break down grease, they are perfect for cleaning windows and mirrors.
Boil water and add a few used black tea bags, letting them steep for 10 to 15 minutes. Once cooled, use this mixture as a natural glass cleaner for sparkling results.
7. Steep Yourself a Bath
Why not add a few tea bags to your next bath for a relaxing experience? Tea bags steep in water, making them ideal for infusing your bath with delightful scents.
Burnett recommends using aromatic herbal infusions like chamomile or peppermint. You’ll enjoy the relaxing aromas and an easy clean-up afterwards.
8. Make Natural Dye
Tea has long served as a natural dye, providing a variety of colours depending on the tea type. For instance, black teas yield earthy browns, while hibiscus infusions create beautiful fuchsia shades.
To create your own dyes, steep tea bags in boiling water and use the resulting liquid for dyeing fabrics such as t-shirts and napkins.
9. A Relaxing Eye Mask
Used green tea bags are not just for sipping; they also have self-care benefits! Pop used green tea bags in the freezer for a refreshing eye mask.
“I often use them in the morning to reduce puffiness or enjoy them after a long day for a much-needed moment of relaxation,” Burnett notes. This easy remedy helps diminish dark circles and puffiness around the eyes.
10. Deodorize Rugs
Dealing with unpleasant odours in your rugs? You can use used tea bags in a similar way to baking soda.
Simply cut open the dried sachet and sprinkle the tea leaves over the rug. Let them sit for about 20 minutes to absorb the smells before vacuuming them up. Your rugs will smell fresher without harsh chemicals.
11. Infuse Alcohol
If you enjoy experimenting with cocktails, try using tea bags to infuse your favourite spirits. Add a tea bag to 8 ounces of gin, vodka, rum, or even tequila, and let it steep for four hours.
This infusion adds depth and complexity to your drinks. Burnett especially enjoys infusing gin with Earl Grey to create a delightful Earl Grey Bee’s Knees cocktail.
12. Get Crafty
Used tea leaves are not just for practical applications; they can also enhance your craft projects! Whether you’re making candles, papermaking, or decoupage, dried tea leaves can add a unique touch.
“Unfurling the entire leaf in your hand reveals the beauty of the plant from which your tea came,” Burnett explains. Let your creativity flow and incorporate tea leaves into your crafting.
Conclusion
As you can see, steeped tea bags offer a myriad of surprising uses around the home. From cleaning and gardening to crafting and self-care, these little bags of tea are incredibly versatile.
Instead of tossing them in the bin, consider these practical applications to reduce waste and enjoy the benefits of your tea long after you’ve sipped your last drop.
FAQs
What can I do with used tea bags?
Used tea bags can be repurposed for cleaning, gardening, and even self-care.
Can I compost tea bags?
Many tea bags are compostable; however, it’s best to check the packaging for specifics.
How do I freshen up my fridge with tea bags?
Place dried tea bags in a bowl with a slit cut in them to absorb unwanted odours.
Can tea bags help with stubborn stains?
Yes, the tannic acid in tea can help break down stubborn food residues on pans.
What types of tea are best for dyeing?
Black tea and hibiscus tea work well for dyeing fabrics, offering beautiful shades.
References
This comprehensive guide not only showcases the remarkable uses of tea bags but also offers practical advice to make the most of this humble household item.
