Green Living Zone

Fruit of The Earth Aloe Vera Gel Review 2021 – A Sensational Gel with Various Health Benefits

Aloe vera gels are considered by many to be effective hair growth products. One product I’ve heard of, the Fruit of the Earth aloe vera gel, is known to perform really well in this department. In fact, there are reviews stating that the Fruit of the Earth aloe vera gel for hair growth really does wonders on their hair.

I am yet to try it out, but based on the reviews I’ve read online, it’s a fairly amazing product. Now, we’re going to take a look at what this aloe vera gel is really capable of.

Things to Consider Before Buying an Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera gel is known for its many benefits. For starters, it can moisturize the skin and even prevent sunburns. Moreover, it’s also proven effective in promoting hair growth and even repairing hair strands.

However, some people might be allergic to it. Therefore, you want to do a patch test first to check if you have aloe sensitivity. If you do, then aloe vera gel is not for you.

Fruit of The Earth Aloe Vera Gel Review 2019 – A Sensational Gel with Various Health Benefits

Before we begin, you should first consider the following things before you even buy an aloe vera gel:

  • Make sure to check its ingredients. You want to go for pure aloe vera gel and possibly around 1-2 natural oils. Avoid those that contain additives such as fragrance, alcohol, etc.
  • Go for aloe vera gels that are easy to use and apply. Natural aloe vera gel is normally lumpy and will leave residues on your skin. Therefore, you should go for an aloe vera gel product which is not only easy to use but can also get absorbed by the skin easily as well.
  • Aloe vera gel is a fairly inexpensive product. However, you have to pay close attention to products that are very cheap as they might contain ingredients that could only harm you.

Presenting Fruit of the Earth Aloe Vera Gel

Fruit of the Earth’s aloe vera gel is an alcohol-free product that is based on 100% pure aloe vera gel. It does a great job in treating minor skin burns, mosquito bites, and other skin inflammations. Aside from that, it also does an excellent job as a moisturizer.

The product is specifically designed for those who are tired of dealing with mosquito bites and minor burns. However, due to the inclusion of certain additives, it’s not recommended for those who have sensitive skin and allergies. That said, it’s suggested to perform a patch test before using it.

Pros:

  • Comes in a fragrance and alcohol-free formulation
  • Perfect for treating mosquito bites and minor burns
  • Available at a very affordable price
  • Easy to apply and spread onto the skin

Cons:

  • It does contain additives which are not recommended for sensitive skin
  • Not capable of retaining moisture
  • Won’t work on dry skin
  • Not ideal for moisturizing your face

Features & Benefits

Now that we’ve had an overview of the Fruit of the Earth aloe vera gel, let’s now take a deeper look at its features and benefits.

Alcohol-Free Formulation

The fact that this aloe vera gel contains no alcohol means that you can apply on it on your skin without causing any damage. This is particularly useful if you’re trying to treat minor burns and bites which this product is made for. I also like the fact that it doesn’t contain any artificial dye which can only lead to adverse reactions.

Fruit of The Earth Aloe Vera Gel Review 2019 – A Sensational Gel with Various Health Benefits

Fragrance-Free

Another thing about the Fruit of the Earth aloe vera gel that I find worth mentioning is that it’s fragrance-free. By far, this is my favorite aspect as I just can’t stand an overwhelming smell of an aloe vera gel on my face and skin. With this one, however, it seems like I can use it without it having to bother me all day with its scent.

Affordable, Two-Pack Packaging

While a two-pack product might seem a little too much for an already affordable product, it’s actually cool to have considering that it can last for quite a long time. 

Healing Properties

This aloe vera gel product creates a “barrier” on the skin which helps promote healing, like with most aloe vera gels on the market. This will help keep your skin moisturized and soothe any bug bites and minor wounds you might have.

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Alternatives

Unfortunately, the Fruit of the Earth aloe vera gel is understandably not for all. Despite it being affordable and pretty effective, some just can’t seem to like it due to the inclusion of additives which are not ideal for those with allergic reactions and sensitive skin.

If you’re one of them, you might want to consider these alternatives instead:

Kate Blanc Cosmetics Aloe Vera Gel

Like FotE’s, Kate Blanc’s aloe vera gel contains no alcohol as well. However, it’s formulated to be used on more sensitive skin, including the face. It can provide a cooling sensation and works best on skin itching, redness, or minor burns.

  • Reduces dandruff
  • Doesn’t contain any petrochemical, alcohol, or fragrance
  • Can heal sunburns and small cuts

Amara Organics Aloe Vera Gel

This aloe vera gel from Amara Organics is yet another excellent alternative to that of FotE’s. It contains zero additives and irritants, and it’s even formulated for use on both babies and pets. It also contains zero alcohol and fragrance which can only irritate sensitive skin.

  • Gets absorbed into the skin easily
  • Doesn’t come with any irritants or artificial ingredients
  • Can be used on babies and pets

NaturSense Aloe Vera Gel

The NaturSense aloe vera gel works best on sensitive skin and those who’re dealing with rashes and eczema patches. It’s rich in essential vitamins and minerals which will help improve skin health and protect it from irritants.

  • Ideal for use on various skin problems like eczema and rashes
  • Doesn’t come with any additives
  • Fortifies skin from within

Conclusion

Fruit of the Earth’s aloe vera gel is no doubt an excellent purchase if you’re suffering from minor burns and mosquito bites on your skin. First, its alcohol-free formulation makes it safe for application on the skin with minor cuts and burns. Second, it doesn’t come with an overwhelming fragrance that can be quite a bother at times. And third, it comes at a fairly affordable price.

If all these sound like a good deal, then don’t hesitate to give the product a try by checking it out here! 

Best Natural Toothpaste 2021 without SLS

Your dental hygiene is an important part of your daily routine. While you brush your teeth twice a day, it is also recommended that you do so with toothpaste that is safe for your teeth and gums. With the multitude of products available in the market, finding toothpaste without SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate) can be quite tricky.

Thus in this article, we will be reviewing three of the best natural toothpaste of 2021 that you can spend your money on. But before I let you in on our top picks, I would be sharing with you some key information you need to know, that would aid you in making your decision. Let’s jump right in. 

Why You Should Choose Toothpaste without SLS 

As mentioned earlier, your dental hygiene is very important; this is why you need to avoid toothpaste that contains harmful agents that can lead to sores and mouth disease. Most of the regular toothpaste available are laden with SLS which makes them to foam but are toxic in nature. 

In addition to being harmful to your health, SLS is also dangerous to the environment which is why health practitioners and the American Dental Association kick against the use of toothpaste containing SLS. Simply put, if you are concerned about your personal health and the environment, then you need to use toothpaste that is SLS free. 

What is SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate?) 

SLS stands for Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, a chemical compound that is prepared by the addition of sulfur to lauryl alcohol which is then softened with the aid of a neutralizing agent mostly sodium carbonate. 

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It belongs to a group of compounds referred to as surfactants which are used as thickeners, emulsifiers, and detergents. SLS is the main ingredient in bath products, mouthwash, shaving creams, shampoo, moisturizers, and soaps. It is added to toothpaste mostly because it is effective in washing and cheap to afford. But even at that, it is not accepted for use in dental and health care products since it is harmful to the health and environment. 

How To Choose Toothpaste without SLS

It can be quite difficult to find a toothpaste that does not contain SLS as it is used by many manufacturers, given that it is a good and cheap washing agent, But, when shopping at your local store or online for SLS free toothpaste, you will want to look out for ingredients such as

  • Sodium dodecyl sulfate
  • Sulfuric acid monododecyl ester
  • Dodecyl hydrogen sulfate sodium salt
  • Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)

Benefits of Using SLS Free Toothpaste 

While SLS is a good cleaning agent, that would leave your teeth sparkling after each clean. SLS free toothpaste would be more beneficial to you because:

Best Natural Toothpaste 2019 without SLS

  • By using SLS free toothpaste, you’ll reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals each time you brush your teeth
  • SLS free toothpaste reduces the effect of canker sores, hastens the recovery time and reduces discomfort each time you brush your mouth.
  • If you suffer from gum disease, using toothpaste that is free from SLS helps to prevent further damage to your already inflamed gum.
  • Natural toothpaste helps to reduce the pain associated with tooth sensitivity.
  • Using toothpaste that is free from SLS is a great way to be more concerned about your health and the environment. 

Things to Look Out For in Your Toothpaste 

When using toothpaste that is made from natural products and free from SLS, you might want to ensure that:

  • The toothpaste will be able to provide you with the right amount of foam needed for a thorough clean.
  • Kids and adults will be able to use the toothpaste comfortably without any complaints.
  • The toothpaste will have an expiration date that isn’t so close to expiring, so that you can finish it even before it expires. 

Best Way to Use Your Toothpaste 

You only need a pea-size amount of toothpaste for each wash. You don’t need to use a large amount of paste or allow the paste to cover the top of your toothbrush. And you certainly don’t need too much foam for a good clean. A little amount of paste is enough to get the job done. 

Our Top 3 Pick of the Best SLS Free Toothpaste 2021 

#1 Verve Ultra SLS-Free Toothpaste with Fluoride

This premium brand of toothpaste from Verve is top on our list of SLS free toothpaste.  It is enriched with Vitamin E, and perfect for daily dental care. Also, if you suffer from canker sores and in need of a mild product that provides you with clean teeth and fresh breath, then you should grab this made in USA toothpaste online or at your local store.

Pros

  • Packed with fluoride to help prevent cavities
  • Contains a non-irritating formula that is free from SLS
  • The soothing mint taste will leave you with a fresh breath after each wash
  • Enriched with vitamin E
  • Free from gluten (meaning it contains no animal product) 

Cons

  • Since the product is made in the USA, it might be difficult to find it anywhere else (if you reside outside the US) except you order from the states. 

#2 Hello Oral Care Sensitivity Relief SLS-Free Toothpaste with Fluoride, Soothing Mint, and Coconut Oil 

This toothpaste from Hello Oral Care is our best pick for sensitive teeth. It is also free from SLS and made from completely natural products that taste awesome and leaves your teeth shining after each use.

Pros

  • It tastes delicious and leaves you with a naturally clean and fresh breath after every mouthwash.
  • A completely vegan product that wasn’t tested on animals and made in the USA under standard operating procedures.
  • Free from SLS, artificial dyes, sweeteners, gluten, parabens, alcohol, microbeads, and triclosan.
  • The boxes are printed with soy ink and made from recyclable paperboard.

Cons

  • The product appeals only to those suffering from tooth sensitivity, as it is boldly written on the package for sensitivity relief.  

#3 Tom’s of Maine Botanically Bright Whitening Toothpaste with Peppermint 

This is our top pick for the best toothpaste without fluoride and SLS: Tom’s of Maine. It is made from completely natural ingredients that leave you with a fresh breath and clean mouth after every use. It is packed with peppermint, Xylitol and bee propolis which all combine together for a healthy mouthfeel.

Pros

  • Free from fluoride and SLS
  • Made from fresh flavors of peppermint, Xylitol, and bee propolis which is all-natural products
  • Regular use helps to remove the buildup of plaque in the mouth
  • Great at protecting against cankerworms and for a deep white clean.

Cons

  • It does not contain fluoride which helps prevent tooth decay and is recommended by the American Dental Association. 

Dental hygiene is an important part of our daily routine; this is why it is recommended that you brush your teeth twice a day with toothpaste that is free from chemicals that are harmful to your teeth, gums and the environment. Using toothpaste that is free from SLS is a step in the right direction.

If you have any comments or would like to make a contribution, feel free to let us know in the comment section. Also, if you find this article helpful, we recommend you share it with others to help raise awareness.  

Introducing The Best Non-Toxic Bug Bombs for Homes 2021

While you may need to bomb your home with bug repellant every now and then, there is that issue of toxicity in all mainstream bug sprays. If you’re concerned about this, then we’ve got a list suited for you. We’ve rounded up 5 of the best non-toxic bug bombs for homes that are safe for you and your family. 

Bug Bomb Buying Guide

Natural bug bombs are pretty hard to buy because there are so many things to take into consideration– especially if you want to avoid the toxic ones. However, we have a buying guide that can help you choose the best one.

We also used this buying guide to narrow down our choices to the 5 best non-toxic bug bombs that we can find in the market. With this guide, you can pick which of the 5 choices we’ll give you later as the one that’s most suited to your needs. 

So follow these criteria when picking out the best product:

Ingredients

The first thing that you have to take note of when buying non-toxic bug bombs is the list of ingredients. The ingredients will show whether or not the bug bomb has any toxic materials or not. The key here is to look for plant-based ingredients. 

If you see that the bug bomb has purely plant-based ingredients, then it’s safe. The main ingredient that you’ll want to look for is essential oils such as citronella, cedar, garlic, and rosemary. 

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Other products will have other essential oils in them so it’s up to you what kind of combination you want to have. Also, watch out for certain toxic ingredients like synthetic pesticides. These include Deet and Pyrethrin. If you see any of these ingredients or something similar, don’t buy them. 

Bugs That Can be Killed

Different products specialize in killing different bugs. Some bug bombs specialize in killing mosquitoes while others are better at killing termites. Most essential oil-based bombs can kill pretty much any bug but some specialize in certain bugs. 

Before you purchase your bug bomb, check the label to see which bugs your desired bug bomb can kill. 

Size

The size refers to how much liquid the container can hold. Some foggers are around 14 ounces a bottle while others can hold 1 gallon of liquid. You choose what size you want based on how heavy of a container you can handle. 

Introducing The Best Non-Toxic Bug Bombs for Homes 2019

Ease of Use

When we choose a fogger or bug bomb, we’re after ease of use as well. Some foggers come in small spray cans. They’re very easy to use because of their size but they can’t cover a whole yard. 

On the other hand, there are the big ones that can cover whole yards but are heavier. There are also industrial-sized types that you can carry on your back. These are very heavy but can bomb an entire garden. 

Residual Effect

Lastly, we have a residual effect. This refers to how long the bug-killing effect lasts. The longer the residual effect, the longer the smell will be in the air. The longer the smell is there, the more bugs get killed over time.

Ideally, you’ll want a bug spray that has an extended residual effect. This means that they stay in the air for a longer period compared to most other bug sprays. With this, you’ll get better results and your money’s worth. 

Introducing The Best Non-Toxic Bug Bombs for Homes 2019

These are some of the things that you should consider when buying a bug bomb. Don’t just buy randomly take the time to do your due diligence to grab one that best suits your needs and brings the best bang for the buck.

The 5 Best Non-Toxic Bug Bombs for Homes

Premo Guard Non-Toxic Natural Spray

This is definitely one of the most powerful non-toxic sprays you’ll find on the market. With its combination of ingredients, it’s strong enough to kill pretty much any big species that tends to infest. These include spider mites, dust mites, roaches, fleas, lice, and ants. It’s also safe & natural. It won’t stain your furniture or bedding. Also, it’s scent-free, so you don’t have to worry about harmful fumes. 

It’s also certified by the Natural Products Association making it very safe. If you’re after power and need to kill a lot of insects in one shot, this is the one to get. It gets the job done whether it’s a small or medium infestation. 

Pros

  • Can kill a whole range of insects effectively
  • Safe for pets and children
  • Can be used as a laundry additive
  • Does not have a smell or create stains

Cons

  • Does not have a strong residual effect

Best Vet’s Flea and Tick Spray

If you have a pet like a dog that tends to attract fleas or ticks to your backyard, this one is a pretty good choice. Not only can it kill adult fleas, but it can also kill baby fleas and eggs. The best part of it all is that it’s very gentle so even your dog or cat can inhale it.

It’s also easy to use. It has this ready-to-use hose attachment for easy application. It’s composed of natural oils that are potent pest-fighting elements and are 100% natural. Thus, you also won’t have to worry about this product harming your trees and shrubs. Just connect the product to the garden house, turn on the nozzle, and spray evenly. 

Pros

  • Can effectively kill fleas or ticks
  • Only contains essential oils
  • Very safe for animals
  • Also slightly effective against mosquitos

Cons

  • Cannot kill bigger bugs like roaches or ants

Cedarcide Original Spray

The beauty of this product is that it dries very easily. A lot of people don’t like using essential oil-based sprays because they stay wet on your bed or table’s surface for quite some time. This one, though, dries up in just a few minutes. It also won’t create stains like most others. 

Most of all, its active ingredient is natural cedar– a powerful insect killer that can kill any insect whether small or big. To make the package better, this gallon of bug spray may also come with a Cedarcide quart bottle with a powerful spray gun.

Pros

  • Fresh scent
  • Quick-dry feature
  • Can kill small or big insects
  • May come with a big spray bottle

Cons

  • Some people may be allergic to natural cedar
  • May cause discoloration

Harris Toughest Bed Bug Killer

For those who suspect that their homes have bed bugs, this is the answer to the problem. This EPA-registered product is all-natural but extremely powerful. 

They can kill pesticide-resistant bed bugs that have immunity against mainstream pesticides through the power of a natural formula. It also has a long residual effect. The results come fast, especially when sprayed directly. Another good thing about it is that it’s odorless, and it won’t cause damage to your fabrics. 

Pros

  • Long residual effect
  • Can kill even the strongest bed bugs
  • Quick killing effect
  • No odor

Cons

  • Cannot kill other bugs
  • May not work for big infestations already

Hudson Fog Electric Atomizer Spray

While this isn’t a bug spray per se, it is a great supplementary product for natural bug sprays. It’s a strong, heavy-duty fogger that you can use if you want to spray all over a big garden or yard. It can be used with natural sprays and is easy to use. It also comes with a carrying strap for added convenience. 

It’s pretty light but can carry 2 gallons of liquid with an output of a max of 14 gallons per hour. If you need to fog a big backyard, this is one handy appliance that you may want to buy. 

Pros

  • Industrial quality
  • Perfect for large gardens
  • Good coverage
  • Portable

Cons

  • Quite bulky
  • The clam can be improved

Can You Bug Bomb a House With an Infant?

In a nutshell, it is not recommended to use bug bombs in a home with an infant or young child, even if the product claims to be non-toxic or environmentally friendly. The thing is, children are more vulnerable to pesticide poisoning than adults since they are smaller and have faster metabolisms.

Numerous scientific studies (1) (2) have shown that even the smallest amounts of exposure to pesticides can damage a child’s neurological, respiratory, immune, and endocrine systems. In addition, the chemicals used in bug bombs may leave a residue on surfaces that could be harmful if ingested by an infant.

How Do I Make a Bug Bomb For My House?

Here are some steps to make a bug bomb that will work safely and effectively:

  1. Fill a big bucket with very cold water and place it in the middle of the room that you want to treat. Use up to 10 cups of water for a 200-square-foot. Add 6 glasses of water for every extra 100 square feet you want to fog. Be sure to close all windows and doors, and it would be preferable to place a small fan or hair dryer in one corner of the room. Don’t forget that you have to protect yourself, so be sure to wear a mask, gloves, and preferably goggles, safety first!
  2. Use around 1 pound of dry ice, submerged in water, for an average-sized room. Feel free to add 1 pound of dry ice for every extra 100 square feet you plan to treat with this DIY bug bomb. Use around 1 pound of dry ice, submerged in water, for an average-sized room. Feel free to add 1 pound of dry ice for every extra 100 square feet you plan to treat with this DIY bug bomb. Pour a couple more cups of cold water over the dry ice to create the characteristic billowing fog.
  3. Leave the area immediately and don’t return until the specified amount of time has passed (usually several hours).
  4. After the specified time has passed, ventilate the area by opening windows and doors for at least 30 minutes. This will help dissipate any remaining insecticide and make the area safe to re-enter.

Can You Use a Bug Bomb Under a Mobile Home?

Yes, you can use bug bombs in your mobile home, but you must listen to the manufacturer’s instructions because they can be extremely harmful to humans and pets if used improperly.

It’s very important to opt for non-toxic ones because as you can imagine, the vast majority of mobile homes are often built with a crawl space underneath, which can allow the chemicals released by the bug bomb to spread into the living room of the home. For them, but no less important, chemicals released by a bug bomb can be flammable and could potentially cause a fire if used near any heat sources or appliances.

How Often Should You Bomb Your House For Bugs?

Regular bug bombs are designed to be used indoors to kill pests, and their primary purpose is not to be a common and frequent method of pest control in your home. In a nutshell, you should only use them once in a while, not too often.

What to Do After You Bomb Your House For Bed Bugs?

If you have decided to use a bed bug bomb to treat bed bugs, here are the steps you should take:

  • Open windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate. It is the easiest way to get rid of all the potential dangers to your health.
  • Remove any dead bed bugs or eggs by vacuuming as thoroughly as possible and be sure to remove and dispose of the vacuum bag immediately to prevent bed bugs from re-infesting your home.
  • To destroy any leftover bed bugs, don’t forget to wash all bedding and clothing in hot water.

How Do You Get a Bug Bomb Smell Out of Your House?

There are a few steps you can take to try to get rid of the smell left behind by a bug bomb, and these are our favorites:

  • Ventilate the area
  • Use air fresheners
  • Wash surfaces with a mixture of water and vinegar
  • Use some product specifically designed to remove odors
  • Change air filters if using air conditioning or a forced air heating system

Conclusion

In our opinion, those 5 products are the best choices you have for non-toxic bug bombs. If you were to ask us which one is our favorite, we think we’ll go with the Premo Guard Non-Toxic Natural Spray. 

Granted that it doesn’t have a strong residual effect, it can still kill a whole range of bugs quickly. If it can do that, you don’t need something with a high residual effect.

Also, its ingredients are completely safe being only made of natural essential oils. Lastly, its size is 1 gallon, which is the standard size for most bug bombs. With that size, you can have a lot of bug spray in one bottle.

Lastly, it’s pretty easy to use because it has a long spray hose. With that kind of length, you can just leave it on the ground and spray it around. 

That said, it gets a 4 out of 5 in our buying guide criteria. That’s why we chose it for our top pick. As for your choice, just go for the one that suits your needs best. Take your time in the selection process and grab the best deal.

FAQ’s

How effective are bug bombs?

If you wonder how effective bug bombs are in getting rid of crawling insects such as roaches and bed bugs, you may just have to try them out. You should know that the active ingredients in the bug bombs usually don’t have a lasting effect on large insects such as roaches and bed bugs. But it would be able to disperse them away from the area or crawl deeper into hard-to-reach spaces until the smell wears off. 

How long do you have to be out of the house after a bug bomb? 

You want to give yourself ample time away from the house after using bug bombs for insect control for safety reasons. The best time to use the insect treatment would be when everyone is out of the house. After this, you should stay out for a few hours (3 to 4) to say safe. You will also have to wait out after opening the windows for another hour, or more so fresh air can get into the home. Once you are sure that the residue is no more in the air, you can turn on the air conditioner.

Do I have to wash everything after a bug bomb?

If you follow a strict safety procedure before using a bug bomb, you may not have to do much cleaning and washing. But you should know that follow-up care would be necessary to get rid of the residue left behind from the spray. Most of the work would, however, be done at the beginning of the treatment.

Before you use insect foggers, you should hide all food and get the kids and pets to safety. You will also have to cover all kitchen and cooking ware to avoid contamination and potential food poisoning. The air conditioner, fans, and other ventilation equipment would need to be put off. Most aerosol-based foggers are highly flammable, so you want to follow the safety instructions printed on the bottle or the brand.

Do you have to turn off the refrigerator for a bug bomb?

Most aerosol manufacturers’ brands may advise that you switch off some of your home electrical devices, including your refrigerators. But as a matter of safety, you want to turn off your refrigerator before using a bug bomb in the house. The fumes from the fogger can pass through the small openings in the fridge and mix with the cooling air. This will undoubtedly contaminate any food you have in there. 

Is bug bomb residue dangerous?

The residues from a bug bomb treatment or an aerosol spray would undoubtedly be toxic to consume or breathe in. This is why you want to stay away until the place is dried. You should also avoid using too much of the spray in your indoor space as it can lead to the buildup of flammable air that can spark up a wildfire. 

Also, take the kids and pets away from the house when you use the spray. To keep you safe, you want to follow all the safety information provided above. 

8 Creative Uses for Unused Coffee Grounds You Probably Never Heard of Before

If you’re a coffee lover like me, then you probably have a lot of coffee grounds lying around right after brewing. However, instead of discarding them into the trashcan, you might be surprised to find out that you can actually use your coffee grounds in a few creative ways. 

That’s exactly what we’re going to talk about here. Without further ado, here are 10 creative uses for unused coffee grounds that you probably never heard of before: 

8 Creative Uses for Coffee Grounds

Garden Fertilizer

If you own a garden, then you’ll be glad to know that coffee grounds can actually be used to provide your plants with most of the nourishment they need to grow. In particular, coffee grounds contain a number of essential minerals including calcium, iron, nitrogen, potassium, magnesium, chromium, and phosphorus.

Apart from that, coffee grounds are also capable of attracting worms while decreasing the presence of heavy metals in the soil. To use them, you simply have to sprinkle them onto the surrounding soil.

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Exfoliator

Coffee grounds are naturally abrasive. However, by gently rubbing them on y our body, you can surely benefit from its exfoliating effect. Since it can help remove dead skin cells, you’ll be able to enjoy a vibrant and refreshed skin.

You can also use it as a facial scrub by adding a few tablespoons of coffee grounds with water to create a paste.

Odor Neutralizer

Due to the presence of nitrogen, coffee grounds are capable of eliminating the bad odor from the air. This simply means that coffee grounds are capable of absorbing and even getting rid of odors.

To do so, simply dry the grounds, place them in a bowl, then put them inside your fridge. This way, you can neutralize any foul odors coming from spoiled or even fragrant foods.

Alternatively, you can use them in place of Mothballs inside your closets to keep your clothes smelling nice and clean. Meanwhile, you can also use them for scrubbing your hands right after chopping spices like onion or garlic as they can help remove their stinky smell.

Cellulite Reduction

The appearance of cellulite in the body is completely natural. However, a lot of us prefer getting rid of it for aesthetic purposes. According to statistics, around 80-90% of adult women are affected by this condition.

However, by applying coffee grounds on the surface where cellulite is present, it might help break down fat deposits that are responsible for the appearance. Aside from that, it can also increase the flow of blood to the area.

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To do so, simply combine coffee grounds with coconut oil or water then apply it to the affected areas. Coffee’s ability to get rid of cellulite explains why several cellulite-reducing products on the market have caffeine in them.

Meat Tenderizer

Did you know that coffee grounds can actually be used to make your meat a lot more tender? Most of the time, we only use salt for tenderizing meat. However, coffee grounds actually contain natural acids and enzymes which are both effective when it comes to tenderizing meat.

Due to coffee’s acidic nature, it can even enhance your meat’s flavor. To achieve this, simply combine coffee grounds with your favorite dry-rub recipe. After that, rub it on your meat at least two hours before you start cooking. It will also give your meat that mild smokiness which will make your meal a lot more flavorful.

Repair Furniture Scratches

This might sound completely ridiculous, but coffee grounds can actually help you repair any visible scratches that might be present on your furniture. Apart from that, it can also help enhance its overall appearance as well.

While there are lots of products that can help reduce, if not remove, the appearance of scratches on your furniture, you want to turn to coffee grounds first if you have them sitting around in the corner.

8 Creative Uses for Unused Coffee Grounds You Probably Never Heard of Before

To start, simply make a thick paste using coffee grounds and water. After that, apply the paste onto the scratches with the use of a cotton swab. Let it sit for around 5 to 10 minutes before wiping it off with a cotton rag.

You can keep on applying the mixture into the scratch until you achieve the desired color. Allow at least a few hours interval between applications.

Natural Wood Stain

If you’re annoyed by how terrible wood stain smells, then you take a more natural and odor-free approach by making your own. This can be achieved with the use of coffee grounds, and you don’t even need to use any chemicals at all!

There are a number of DIY procedures out there to do this, but this one from Whole Green Love can surely help you. Do keep in mind that the darkness of your DIY wood stain will get darker the longer you let it sit.

Therefore, in order to get the desired color, you want to try it out on wood samples first.

Mushroom Grower

If you want to grow mushrooms but have been struggling lately since you failed doing so, then don’t lose hope yet. After all, growing mushrooms can be fairly tough as they only thrive in very specific conditions. To add to that, they’re notoriously difficult to grow as well.

If you’re starting out, then you will need a substrate just to start growing. Fortunately, coffee grounds make for an excellent substrate due to their high nutrient content that mushrooms need to grow.

Conclusion

Most coffee drinkers normally discard their coffee grounds right after brewing. If you’re most coffee drinkers, then it’s time to reconsider throwing your coffee grounds. The simple fact that they come with a lot of amazing benefits like reducing cellulite, tenderizing meat, and others make them really useful in a lot of ways.

Aside from that, they also come with a lot of essential nutrients for plant growth and have the ability to deter pests that might be lying in your garden. Also, their natural abrasiveness makes for an excellent cleaning scrub all throughout your house.

There are several other benefits of coffee grounds that we haven’t mentioned here. So the next time you brew a cup of coffee, save and repurpose those grounds and consider these creative ideas above.

Thanks for reading!

Can You Recycle Shoes? Here Are Quick and Easy Ways How

Do you have a bunch of old shoes in your home that is in bad condition that you want to get rid of? Of course, you do have the option to throw them away, but that’d be rather bad for the environment. Is there something else that you can do with it that’s more eco-friendly? Can you recycle shoes? 

You’re not the only one that has asked this question before. Fortunately, there are ways that you can do this. You can actually turn your shoes into something that’s more useful and good for the environment as well. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the ways you can recycle some of the old shoes you have in your house that you don’t use.

Put In a Shoe Recycle Bin

Probably the easiest thing that you can do is dump the shoes in a shoe recycle bin. There are actually clothing recycle bins in most municipalities that accept shoes. Usually, the collectors of these types of things know of ways to use the parts of shoes to turn them into something more useful. 

There are also some collectors that can create brand new shoes out of the old ones. In any case, you should ask your local government if there are any shoe recycle bins in the area so that you can give your shoes to someone who can use it. 

Can You Recycle Shoes

Donate to Charity

Do you believe that one man’s trash is another man’s treasure? This is definitely true for old shoes. There are actually some charity centers out there that take in old shoes that can be sold in salvation armies.

Of course, this will totally depend on the condition of the shoes that you give. Wearable shoes can still be sold at a cheap price while the really worn-out shoes will be given to shoe recyclers. In any case, the shoes that you cast away will be put to good use or given to other people who may want to have them. 

Get In Touch With Shoe Manufacturers

If there are no charity centers or recycle bins in your area, then another good bet is to get in touch with shoe manufacturers. In some cases, the shoe manufacturers will actually want to get old shoes for recycling. In fact, a lot of well-known brands do this. Here are a few of them that you may know about:

Adidas

Adidas is one of the first shoe companies that offered this type of service to those who want to donate old and tattered shoes. If you give your old shoes back to Adidas, they will either give those shoes a second life or turn the raw materials into something that can be used. In other words, they’ll be the ones to recycle the stuff for you. 

Sometimes, I find it easier to work with shoe manufacturers than recycle and charity centers since they really know what they’re doing. That’s why approaching Adidas is definitely an option that I recommend. 

Asics

Asics is another brand that has a rather similar program to that of Adidas. Just like Adidas, Asics also partners with I: CO for their collection of old shoes. They also recycle old shoes to turn them into raw materials and sell them in the secondhand market. So if you don’t want to approach Adidas, then Asics is another alternative. 

Nike

Aside from these two brands, Nike is also known to have a really good shoe recycling program known as “Reuse a Shoe”. The program is similar to Adidas’ and Asics’ program in the sense that they will also ask for old shoes. Nike will then think of ways to use the old materials for their textile recycling to turn these old shoes into something else that’s useful. That way, there will be no wasted shoes. 

Native Shoes

Lastly, the brand Native Shoes also has a similar program that’s known as the Remix program. The cool thing about the Remix program is that you can do everything online. If you want to donate old shoes, all you have to do is go to the Native Shoes website and fill up this form.  From there, just bring a bunch of your old shoes to the nearest UP store and you’re done.

The cool thing about this program is that it turns the shoes into playgrounds. So if this sounds like an advocacy that you’ll be into, by all means, try it out. I myself have tried donating my shoes to the Remix Program and am pretty happy with how Native Shoes handle it. 

Compost Your Shoes

Did you know that there are now plant-based shoes that can be composted? In the spirit of environmental friendliness, a few brands such as Reebok or Adidas have created shoes that can be turned into compost. It’s not exactly recycling but it’s definitely good for the environment. When your shoes are completely worn out, you can throw them into the compost heap and turn them into food for your plants.

Recycle Shoes Quick and Easy Ways How

However, do take note that there are only some shoes that can be turned into compost. You need to find the right plant-based shoes in order to do this. I highly recommend that you check out Reebok’s Cotton+Corn material shoes as these are made out of sustainable materials that are really good for the environment. 

Conclusion

I admit that it’s pretty hard having a bunch of old shoes in the house and not knowing where to put them. It’s especially difficult if you’re an environmental enthusiast who wants to minimize waste at any opportunity. That’s why you need to know the ways on how to recycle your old shoes. So now that you know the different ways to go about, let’s summarize the steps you need to take:

  • Choose the best shoe recycling method for yourself
  • Call up the facility/company that supports it
  • Give or donate your shoes
  • If you choose to compost your shoes, call up the company that sold the pair to know-how

Isn’t it totally easy to recycle your old shoes? 

If you have any more questions, feel free to leave a comment in the comment box below.