Reuse and Repurpose Eggshells


When you make breakfast, you crack the eggs into the pan, but then you likely throw out the leftover eggshells without thinking twice. But they’re eggshells you say, what can you do with leftover eggshells?  There are actually several easy ways that you can “re-purpose” your eggshells, not to mention the multiple benefits that they have for both humans and your furry friends.

Take a look at the three Noah’s Pride tested and tried ideas below!

 

Nutritional Supplements for your Furry Friends

Eggshells are actually very high in calcium which allows them to protect their precious yolks inside, but as we all know calcium strengthens bones and even allows other aves (birds) to produce stronger eggshells of their own. You can grind the eggshells into a fine powder and incorporate into the food of your furry friends to pass along the benefits. Give it a try yourself and even add some to your coffee grounds before brewing to help eliminate some of the bitterness.

 

Instructions

  1. Start by rinsing out your eggshells to get rid of any egg residue inside.
  2. Arrange shells on a baking sheet and bake at 150°F for about 10 minutes or until completely dried out. This step helps to ensure that the eggshells are sterilized and free from any lingering bacteria.
  3. Once cooled, just grind the shells with a pestle and mortar until you reach the consistency of a fine powder.
  4. Voilà! Incorporate a spoonful into each mealtime for your furry friends. Make sure to keep any leftover powder in a sealed, airtight container for later use.

 

 

Seed Starters

Whether you’re getting a late start on your garden this year, or want to start some herbs inside, leftover eggshells serve as the perfect vessels for starting your seedlings. Not only does the shell provide the perfect size and containment, but it again can provide additional nutrients to the soil in the growing process. You can even incorporate the shells into soil in existing planters or beds for a little nutrient boost.

 

Instructions

  1. Start by rinsing out eggshells to get rid of any egg residue inside, spread out on some paper towels and let air dry.
  2. Take each clean eggshell and fill about three-quarters of the way full with some soil or compost. [Pro tip: use a leftover egg carton to keep eggshells upright and organized until it’s time to plant into the ground.]
  3. Plant your seeds in each eggshell and place on a windowsill to germinate.
  4. Once your seedlings start to sprout, just take the eggshells and plant the entire thing into your garden or planter. The eggshells will break down naturally in the soil.

 

 

Natural Chalk

Sidewalk chalk is the summer staple of childhood; endless hours spent outside drawing pictures and playing games. But did you know you can make your own chalk with leftover eggshells? Just create a powder out of eggshells and flour and add your preferred color of food dye for your own natural chalk.

 

Instructions

  1. Start by rinsing out about 10 eggshells to get rid of any egg residue inside, spread out on some paper towels and let air dry.
  2. Once dry, grind the shells with a pestle and mortar until you reach the consistency of a fine powder. [This can take a while but have patience and be persistent!]
  3. Combine your powder, 2 teaspoons of flour and a small amount of hot water in a bowl and mix until you reach the consistency of a stiff paste, then add your food die and mix until incorporated. [Pro tip: you can always add more, start small with the water, and build up until you reach your desired consistency.]
  4. Mold your paste into a tube using either a toilet paper roll or some paper towel rolls, you could even make fun shapes if you have silicone ice cube trays.
  5. Once molded, let dry for several days until completely dried out and hardened. Yes, it takes time, but be patient, it’s worth it!
  6. Once dried, your chalk is full ready to use, get creative!

 

The next time you make eggs for breakfast, save the eggshells and try something new! Whether you want to better your health, better your garden or entertain your kids, repurposing is always better than throwing them out. If you try any of these projects, let us know and tag us @noahspride on Facebook or Instagram!