We’ve heard about the many great benefits that most types of teas offer. They are refreshing, help with weight loss, protect against free radicals and are believed to reduce the risk of certain types of cancers.  

We also know that most things can be reused. Tea bags are no different! 

Here’s a list of seven practical ways to reuse your tea bags after you’ve enjoyed that delicious cup of tea. 

Cooking: Add light flavour to rice or pasta, by dropping a few used tea bags into the water while boiling. Jasmine, lemongrass and chai are flavourful options to consider. Feel free to experiment with other teas that you enjoy. 

Skincare: We are familiar with using tea bags on our eyes to reduce puffiness and dark circles. Used tea bags are also great for soothing the skin after extended sun exposure. For a relaxing bath, fill your bathtub and drop a few used tea bags in. Get in and soak. The antioxidants in teas will help to soothe your skin. 

Gardening: Old tea bags can be used for composting, scaring away insects and as a natural fertiliser for plants. Use old tea bags to create a strong brew for composting. Replace water with a weak tea, brewed from old tea bags, for watering plants to get rid of pests.  

Haircare: Used tea bags also have a few benefits for your hair. Make a strong brew from used tea bags, allow it to cool and then saturate your hair with the cooled tea. Leave it in for 10 minutes and then shampoo and condition as usual. It will leave your hair feeling soft and shiny! 

Degreasing: It can be tough getting rid of grease in containers but used tea bags can do the job. To degrease containers, add a used tea bag to water and leave to soak overnight. This should make it easier to wash out. 

Cleaning: Used tea bags can eliminate scratches on wooden furniture and other surface areas.  Re-steep tea bags and then use the mixture with a soft rag to wipe counter-tops. Use the tea bags to polish and buff wooden surfaces. 

Air Freshening: Get rid of strong odours by placing used tea bags in your garbage bin, refrigerator or any other area that needs it. Allow the tea bag to dry before using it. You can add a few drops of essential oils to the tea bag to help to add even more fragrance. 

There are many other ways that used tea bags can be repurposed. Try a few of the ones suggested and be sure to share with others.  

You may be surprised at what else you find out once you start sharing! 

Sources: WebMD, Time, Tea How, Mind Body Green, Balcony Garden and One Good Thing.