Can Hard Boiled Egg Shells Be Composted? The Definitive Answer and Other Uses

Eggshells are a common household waste product, but rather than throwing them in the trash, you might be wondering if you can compost them or use them in some other way. Can hard boiled egg shells be composted? The good news is that eggshells are actually a great addition to compost and soil, providing a natural source of calcium and other nutrients.

In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of composting eggshells and provide tips on how to do it safely and effectively. We’ll also delve into other uses for eggshells, such as using them as grit for animal feed, as a pest deterrent, and as a dietary supplement for worms and birds. We’ll also end with more creative uses for eggshells – such as home and health uses.

Table of Contents

Can Egg Shells Be Composted?

Can egg shells be composted? The short answer is yes, eggshells can be composted. In fact, they make a great addition to a compost pile or bin because they provide a natural source of calcium and other nutrients. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when composting eggshells.

First, it’s generally recommended to wash and crush the eggshells before adding them to the compost pile. This helps them break down more quickly and reduces the risk of unpleasant odors. To wash the shells, simply rinse them in warm water and let them dry completely before adding them to the compost. To crush them, you can place them in a blender for a fine powder, or break them up in a bowl using the back of a wooden spoon until they’re the desired size.

It’s also worth noting that raw and cooked eggs are among the food items that many gardeners say are best left out of the compost pile, along with meat, fat, and bones. There are a few reasons for this. One is that eggs can produce unpleasant odors as they decompose. Additionally, adding raw eggs to a compost pile can attract unwanted visitors, such as flies and rodents. However, it is possible to safely and effectively compost whole eggs, raw and cooked, as long as you use the right composting method and keep the system healthy.

Guidelines for Composting Eggshells

If you’re interested in composting eggshells, there are a few guidelines to follow to ensure that the process goes smoothly and safely. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Rinse and crush the eggshells: As mentioned earlier, it’s a good idea to rinse the eggshells in warm water and crush them before adding them to the compost pile. This will help them break down more quickly and reduce the risk of unpleasant odors.
Add the shells to a hot compost system: If you have a hot compost system, such as a tumbler or bin that reaches high temperatures, the eggshells will break down more quickly. However, it’s worth noting that it may take several months for the shells to fully decompose in a hot compost system.
Mix the shells with other materials: To help the eggshells break down more quickly and effectively, be sure to mix them with other compostable materials, such as vegetable scraps and yard waste. This will provide a good balance of carbon and nitrogen, which is essential for the composting process.
Keep the compost pile moist: It’s important to keep the compost pile moist, but not too wet. Adding water as needed will help the eggshells break down and release their nutrients.
Avoid adding meat, fat, and bones: As mentioned earlier, it’s generally recommended to avoid adding meat, fat, and bones to the compost pile. These materials can produce unpleasant odors and attract unwanted visitors, such as flies and rodents.
Sift out any remaining shells: If you find that your compost is finished before the eggshells have fully broken down, you can sift them out and toss them back into the pile for another round of composting. Alternatively, you can crush the shells further to help them break down more quickly.
Use the finished compost: Once the eggshells have fully broken down in the compost pile, you can use the finished compost in your garden as a natural fertilizer. Simply mix it into the soil around your plants or use it as a top dressing.

Benefits of Composting Eggshells

Composting eggshells has a number of benefits for both your garden and the environment. Here are a few reasons why you might consider adding eggshells to your compost pile or bin:

Eggshells provide a natural source of calcium: Calcium is essential for healthy plant growth, and eggshells are a natural source of this important nutrient. Adding eggshells to your compost pile will help to enrich the soil and provide a boost to your plants.
Eggshells improve soil structure and drainage: Eggshells are made up of calcium carbonate, which helps to improve the structure of soil. When added to compost, eggshells can help to improve drainage and prevent soil compaction, which can be especially useful in clay soil.
Composting eggshells reduces waste: Rather than throwing your eggshells in the trash, composting them is a more eco-friendly way to dispose of them. Composting reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfills and helps to conserve resources.
Composting eggshells saves money: Adding eggshells to your compost pile is a cost-effective way to enrich your soil and improve your garden. Rather than purchasing expensive fertilizers, you can use the eggshells you already have on hand to provide nutrients to your plants.

Other Uses for Eggshells in the Garden

Can hard boiled egg shells be composted? As mentioned above, yes, but, in addition to composting, there are a number of other ways you can use eggshells in the garden and around the house. Here are a few ideas:

Use eggshells as grit for animal feed: If you have chickens, ducks, or other birds, you can use eggshells as grit for their feed. Simply crush the shells and mix them into the feed. The shells will provide a natural source of calcium and other minerals that are essential for the birds’ health.
Use eggshells as a pest deterrent: Some gardeners swear by using crushed eggshells as a natural pest deterrent. To use them in this way, simply crush the shells and sprinkle them around plants or on the soil surface. The sharp edges of the shells can deter slugs, snails, and other pests from entering the area.
Use eggshells as a dietary supplement for worms: If you have a worm composting bin, you can use eggshells as a dietary supplement for the worms. Simply crush the shells and mix them into the bin. The worms will consume the shells and use the calcium and other nutrients to help them thrive.
Use eggshells as a calcium supplement for plants: Eggshells are a natural source of calcium, which is essential for healthy plant growth. To use them as a calcium supplement for your plants, crush the shells and mix them into the soil around the base of the plants. Alternatively, you can make a compost tea by soaking crushed eggshells in water and using the resulting liquid to water your plants.

Eggshells as a Natural Cleaner and Deodorizer

Eggshells can be used in a number of ways around the home, beyond just composting them or using them in the garden. For example, eggshells can be used as a natural cleaner and deodorizer in a number of ways:

Clean pots and pans: Eggshells can be used as a natural abrasive to help clean pots and pans that have burnt-on food or other tough stains. To use them in this way, crush the shells into a fine powder and mix them with a small amount of water to create a paste. Apply the paste to the affected area and scrub with a sponge or scrub brush. Rinse the pot or pan thoroughly with water to remove any remaining shell bits.
Deodorize the garbage disposal: To deodorize your garbage disposal, toss a handful of crushed eggshells down the drain and run the disposal for a minute or two. The shells will help to remove any lingering odors and leave your disposal smelling fresh.
Freshen the fridge: To help remove odors from your refrigerator, place a bowl of crushed eggshells on a shelf or in the back of the fridge. The shells will absorb any unpleasant odors, leaving your fridge smelling fresh.
Make a natural air freshener: To create a natural air freshener, place a handful of crushed eggshells in a small bowl or jar. Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil, such as lemon or lavender, and place the bowl or jar in an area where you want to freshen the air. The shells will help to diffuse the essential oils and provide a natural, refreshing scent.

Eggshells and the Environment

In addition to the benefits that eggshells can provide for your garden and home, there are also environmental benefits to using them in various ways. Here are a few examples:

Composting eggshells reduces waste: By composting eggshells rather than throwing them in the trash, you’re helping to reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills. Composting reduces the need for new resources and helps to conserve the ones we already have.
Using eggshells as a natural cleaner and deodorizer reduces the use of chemical cleaners: By using eggshells as a natural cleaner and deodorizer, you can reduce your reliance on chemical-based products, which can be harmful to the environment. Eggshells are a natural and safe alternative that can help you keep your home clean and fresh without using harsh chemicals.
Using eggshells as a natural pest deterrent reduces the use of chemical pesticides: If you use eggshells as a natural pest deterrent in your garden, you can reduce your reliance on chemical pesticides. Chemical pesticides can be harmful to the environment, as well as to humans and pets. Using eggshells as a natural alternative can help you protect your plants without relying on potentially harmful chemicals.
Using eggshells in craft projects reduces the need for new materials: By using eggshells to create craft projects, you can help to reduce the demand for new materials. This can have a positive impact on the environment by conserving resources and reducing waste.

Overall, eggshells are a versatile and environmentally-friendly resource that can be used in a number of ways around the home and garden. Whether you decide to compost them, use them as a natural cleaner and deodorizer, or create craft projects with them, eggshells offer a number of benefits that can help you live a more sustainable lifestyle.

Eggshells and Health

Eggshells are not only good for the environment and your garden, but they can also have a number of health benefits. Here are a few ways that eggshells can support your health:

Eggshells as a natural calcium supplement: As mentioned earlier, eggshells are a natural source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth. If you’re looking for a natural way to boost your calcium intake, you can use crushed eggshells as a dietary supplement. Simply mix a small amount of crushed shells into water or smoothies, or sprinkle them over food. Be sure to consume the shells in moderation, as too much calcium can have negative effects on your health.
Eggshells for reducing inflammation: Some research suggests that eggshells may have anti-inflammatory properties and may be effective in reducing inflammation in the body. To use them in this way, you can consume eggshells in the same way as a calcium supplement, or you can apply a paste made from crushed eggshells directly to the affected area.
Eggshells for improving sleep: Eggshells are a natural source of strontium, a mineral that has been shown to improve sleep quality. If you’re having trouble getting a good night’s sleep, you can try consuming a small amount of crushed eggshells before bed.
Eggshells for improving digestion: Eggshells contain a number of trace minerals that can support digestive health, including zinc, copper, and iron. To use them in this way, you can consume a small amount of crushed eggshells as a dietary supplement, or you can apply a paste made from crushed eggshells directly to the affected area.

While eggshells may offer a number of health benefits, it’s important to consume them in moderation. As with any dietary supplement, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before adding eggshells to your diet.

Eggshells and Cooking

Eggshells are not only useful for composting and various household and garden tasks, but they can also be used in cooking in a number of ways. Here are a few ideas:

Eggshells as a natural thickening agent: Eggshells can be used as a natural thickening agent in soups and stews. To use them in this way, rinse and dry the shells, then grind them into a fine powder using a blender or food processor. Mix the powder into the soup or stew and allow it to simmer for a few minutes. The shells will help to thicken the liquid and add a subtle, eggy flavor.
Eggshells as a natural clarifying agent: Eggshells can also be used as a natural clarifying agent in stocks and broths. To use them in this way, rinse and dry the shells, then grind them into a fine powder. Add the powder to the stock or broth and allow it to simmer for a few minutes. The shells will help to remove impurities and clarify the liquid.
Eggshells in baking: Eggshells can be used in baking to add a subtle, eggy flavor and a crunchy texture. To use them in this way, rinse and dry the shells, then grind them into a fine powder. Mix the powder into your favorite baked goods, such as bread, cakes, or cookies.
Eggshells as a natural food dye: Eggshells can also be used as a natural food dye in a number of dishes. To use them in this way, rinse and dry the shells, then grind them into a fine powder. Mix the powder with water to create a paste, then add the paste to your food to give it a pale yellow or beige color.

Overall, eggshells can be a useful and flavorful addition to your cooking repertoire. Whether you use them as a thickening agent, clarifying agent, or natural food dye, they offer a number of creative and tasty options for the kitchen.

Conclusion

Can hard boiled egg shells be composted? That has been answered, and it’s great news!

Eggshells are a versatile and environmentally-friendly resource that can be used in a number of ways around the home and garden. Whether you decide to compost them, use them as a natural cleaner and deodorizer, or create craft projects with them, eggshells offer a number of benefits that can help you live a more sustainable lifestyle.

In the garden, eggshells can be used as a natural fertilizer, pest deterrent, and calcium supplement for plants. They can also be used as grit for animal feed, or as a dietary supplement for worms.

Around the home, eggshells can be used as a natural cleaner and deodorizer to help remove stains and odors. They can also be used to improve sleep, reduce inflammation, and support digestive health when consumed as a dietary supplement.

The answer to “can hard-boiled egg shells be composted” is yes. More broadly, however, composting eggshells or incorporating them into your daily life can be a simple and effective way to reduce waste, save resources, and support the health of your garden and home.