Every day, millions of eggs are cracked open for breakfast, baking, or cooking—and in most households, the shells end up in the bin. But those fragile shells are far from useless. Packed with calcium and other minerals, eggshells are a natural resource that can be reused in surprisingly practical and creative ways. From gardening to health remedies and even arts and crafts, recycling eggshells is a small step toward sustainability with big benefits.

Eggshells in the Garden
Gardeners have long known the value of eggshells. Crushed shells can be sprinkled directly into the soil to add calcium, which helps prevent problems like blossom-end rot in tomatoes and peppers. Their rough texture also acts as a natural deterrent to soft-bodied pests like slugs and snails. Some people even start seedlings in half-shells—the shell provides a biodegradable “pot” that can be planted directly into the soil, where it breaks down and nourishes the plant.

Eggshells for Health and Home
Eggshells are made up of about 95% calcium carbonate, making them an excellent source of calcium. Some people dry and grind eggshells into a fine powder to use as a natural calcium supplement. When prepared safely, this powder can be added in small amounts to smoothies or baked goods. Eggshells also come in handy around the home. For example, adding crushed shells to coffee grounds when brewing can reduce bitterness. They can even be used as a gentle, natural abrasive for scrubbing pots and pans.

Eggshells in Crafts
Beyond their practical uses, eggshells can inspire creativity. Crushed shells make a unique material for mosaics, adding texture and a natural shimmer to art projects. Dyed shells can be used in decorative vases or as colourful fillers for ornaments. Even whole shells can be carefully decorated and transformed into delicate keepsakes, a tradition seen in many cultures around the world.

Re-purposing eggshells is not just clever—it’s eco-friendly. By recycling something that would otherwise be thrown away, you reduce household waste while adding value to everyday life. Whether you’re nourishing your garden, boosting your calcium intake, or creating something beautiful, eggshells remind us that even the most fragile things can have lasting uses.