7 Creative Ways to Reuse Old Coffee (That Are Actually Fun)
Think your coffee’s job is done after the last sip? Well, think again. Before you toss those old grounds into the trash, let’s talk about their second life. These ideas are eco-friendly. They’re also fun, practical, even a little fancy (coffee whipped cream, anyone?). So grab your leftover, and let’s get crafty
1. Make a Coffee Scrub
Your skin loves coffee just as much as you do. Mix used coffee grounds with a little coconut oil and sugar. And, there you have it: a DIY body scrub that exfoliates. The caffeine helps boost circulation, while the texture sloughs off dead skin cells, leaving you soft, smooth, and smelling delicious.
2. Deodorize Your Fridge or Shoes
Coffee grounds are odor absorbers, just like baking soda. Dry them out and pop them into a small jar (or breathable pouch). Then place them in your fridge, shoes, gym bag, or even your car to keep things smelling fresh.
3. Natural Pest Repellant for Your Garden
Got ants, cats, or slugs invading your garden? Sprinkle used grounds around your plants to keep unwanted critters away. They deter pests while also adding nitrogen to your soil (so your plants will say thank you, too).
4. Coffee Candles or Fire Starters
Get cozy with coffee-scented candles! Mix dried grounds into your melted wax for a rustic vibe, plus some delish aroma. Or, for your next camping trip, try making fire starters: pack dry grounds into paper egg cartons with wax and a wick. Just light and enjoy the smoky goodness.
5. Flavor-Infused Cocktails or Desserts
Coffee beans don’t just belong to your, well, coffee. Use whole beans to infuse flavor into vodka, syrup, or cream. Think coffee whipped cream, espresso martinis, a coffee syrup drizzle over pancakes… yum! 😋 It sounds gourmet, but it’s actually pretty simple.
6. Crafts: Coffee Bean Art or Decor
Get artsy with old coffee. Use whole beans as vase fillers; hot glue them onto photo frames; or make textured art for a rustic coffeehouse vibe. It’s a great way to add warmth and personality to your space. As a bonus, it smells amazing as you craft.
7. Homemade Coffee Dye or Stain
Looking for that perfectly vintage look? Brew a strong batch using used grounds, then use it to dye fabric, paper, or even wood. Great for handmade journals, DIY gift tags, or giving old furniture a makeover.
The Final Sip…
See? Coffee’s usefulness doesn’t end with the last pour. Whether you’re pampering your skin, refreshing your fridge, or adding design to your home, there’s no shortage of ways to give old grounds a new life. Try one (or all!) of these and tag us on Instagram @gypsysoulscoffee. We’d love to see your creations 😊