Published By: Elisa Ghosh

Used tea leaves have a wealth of potential: This is how you can recycle them

Tea does not fall under the category of food waste because it is non-perishable before brewing, resulting in little to no waste in our supply chains or homes.

Tea is a timeless and beloved beverage that has earned its status as the best first drink of the day for a variety of reasons. Aside from its pleasant aroma and soothing warmth, tea provides a slow awakening of the senses, preparing us for the day ahead. The small dose of caffeine helps to jumpstart our minds and increase alertness without the jittery impacts of coffee. After brewing the tea, we always discard the tea leaves. But have you ever considered that these tea leaves could be really valuable in other ways? Don't be surprised; these tea leaves can be utilised for more than just gardening.

Reinfuse the tea leaves again as food

Use a tea bottle at home or when travelling to re-infused tea leaves. Refined whole-leaf teas can be steeped two or three times. Just be sure that before steeping again, you remove all of the tea fluid from each infusion.

Compost

Is a garden being grown in your backyard? Your old tea leaves may have some useful information. It’s time for your plants to absorb the nutrients that have been given to them by the tea with each sip. Every week, gather the strained tea leaves and scatter them across your flower beds. Before starting a new plant, you can also combine the leftover tea leaves with compost or soil. The leaves’ varied nutrients will undoubtedly aid in the growth of your plant. To your soon-to-be flourishing garden, cheers!

Wardrobe freshener

Does your mother or partner usually complain about the smell of your clothes? This problem can be solved quickly and easily by combining dry tea leaves with a tablespoon of dried lavender blossoms. For example, you could use green tea leaves as an odour neutraliser. Meanwhile, the lavender blossoms will deter the moths. Remember to only use fully dried tea leaves and distribute them evenly.

Sore eye relief

If your eyes are weary, swollen or sore, you can apply used tea leaves. Tea's antioxidants and anti-inflammatory qualities may provide the calming relaxation that the eyes require. Place the damp tea leaves in a cotton bag and gently cover your eyes.

Used a cleaning agent

Are you doing some spring cleaning or seeking another way to unwind from work? Why not attempt cleaning your windows? Used tea leaves are also effective cleaning agents for making your windows glossy and pristine. Use 5 teaspoons of black tea leaves per litre of water. Steep for about 20 minutes, then let it cool to room temperature. Grab a cleaning cloth and soak it in the used tea mixture before wiping the glass.

Bath scents

You may also soak your muslin-wrapped tea leaves in the bath for a fragrant, aromatic experience. Flower teas, such as rosebuds or chamomile, are especially nice, but they will dissolve if left uncontained in the tub.

Room freshener

In Japan and China, dried tea leaves are frequently placed on top of little burners (similar to those used to burn essential oils). The candle’s gentle flame will gradually heat the tea leaves, releasing a lovely, roasted tea leaf smell.

Dying clothing

If drinking tea adds colour to your life, you can do the same with your clothes by using used tea leaves. Some black teas generate yellowish notes, but if you want orange or reddish tones, rooibos tea is the best option.

You no longer have to be concerned about strange odours or plant care. You may completely save money while ensuring that everything you use is organic and natural.