Coffee is a widely loved beverage for its ability to kickstart our mornings, but did you know that it has many other uses beyond just drinking? From cooking to home remedies, coffee has a myriad of benefits that are often overlooked.
In this article, we’ll explore some lesser-known coffee hacks that will make you see this beverage in a whole new light.
Coffee Scrubs and Masks for Skin Care
Coffee is packed full of antioxidants which makes it a great ingredient for homemade skin care products. Coffee scrubs are a popular way to exfoliate dead skin cells and reveal a healthier glow.
Simply mix together 1/4 cup of coffee grounds, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, and 1/4 cup of coconut oil. Apply it to your skin in a circular motion and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing it off. You’ll be left with smooth and refreshed skin.
Coffee masks are another great way to cleanse and tighten your pores. Mix together a tablespoon of ground coffee, a tablespoon of honey, and a tablespoon of plain yogurt.
Apply the mixture to your face and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing it off. Your skin will feel rejuvenated and refreshed.
Coffee Stain Remover
We’ve all experienced the frustration of spilling coffee on our clothes or carpets. Luckily, coffee can also be used to remove these stubborn stains. First, blot the stain with a cloth or paper towel to remove as much of the excess coffee as possible.
Then, mix together equal parts of water and vinegar and pour the mixture onto the stain. Blot the area again until the stain disappears. Finally, rinse the area with water and let it dry.
Coffee as a Meat Rub
Coffee isn’t just for sweet desserts – it can also add an unexpected depth of flavor to savory dishes. In fact, coffee has become a popular ingredient in meat rubs because of its smoky, slightly bitter taste.
To make a coffee rub, combine 1/4 cup of coffee grounds, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of smoked paprika, 2 tablespoons of chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Rub the mixture onto your meat of choice and marinate for a few hours before cooking.
Coffee Fertilizer for Plants
If you’re looking for an eco-friendly way to fertilize your plants, look no further than your coffee grounds. Coffee grounds contain many essential nutrients that plants need, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Simply sprinkle your used coffee grounds around your plants and mix them into the soil. Your plants will thank you for the boost of nutrients.
Coffee as a Natural Deodorizer
Have a pesky odor that just won’t go away? Try using coffee as a natural deodorizer. Place some fresh coffee grounds into a bowl and leave it in the area for a few hours.
The coffee grounds will absorb the odor and leave the space smelling fresh and clean. This is particularly useful for strong-smelling food like seafood or garlic.
Coffee on Ice Cubes
If you’re a coffee lover, chances are you’ve tried iced coffee. But have you ever tried coffee ice cubes? These are a game-changer on hot summer days. Simply pour leftover coffee into an ice cube tray and freeze it.
Add the coffee ice cubes to your next iced coffee to prevent your drink from becoming watered down by regular ice cubes. This also works great for iced tea or other cold beverages.
Coffee Scented Candles
If you love the smell of coffee but don’t always have time to brew a fresh cup, try making coffee scented candles. It’s surprisingly easy to make your own candles at home with just a few ingredients and some candle wax.
Melt the wax in a double boiler and add some coffee essential oil. Pour the wax into a container and add a wick. Wait for the wax to harden and you’ll have a lovely coffee scented candle that you can light whenever you want to fill your home with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee.
Coffee Gifts
Coffee also makes for a great gift, especially for the coffee lovers in your life. Consider DIY coffee-themed gifts like coffee bean bags, mugs, coasters or even a gift basket filled with coffee flavored candy and snacks.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to coffee-themed gifts. Be creative and enjoy giving someone a unique and thoughtful present.
Conclusion
There you have it – some amazing coffee hacks that go beyond just drinking it. From skin care to meat rubs to deodorizing your home, coffee really is a versatile ingredient.
The next time you brew yourself a cup, consider how else you could use the coffee grounds or think about your friends and family who could appreciate a coffee-themed present.