There’s nothing quite like starting the day with a warm cup of coffee. It’s a comforting ritual that helps set the tone for the day. However, as the evening rolls in, I usually switch to tea, winding down with a steaming cup of my favorite blend. Like many people, I would brew my tea, enjoy the drink, and then toss the used tea bag into the trash without a second thought.

That was until my grandmother shared some surprisingly clever ways to reuse old tea bags. Ever since, I’ve never looked at them the same way again. These little pouches of brewed leaves have plenty of hidden uses, and by repurposing them, you can save money while making your home, skin, and garden happier. If you’re someone who enjoys finding new ways to reduce waste, you’re going to love these practical ideas.

1. 1. Soothe sunburns. A long day under the sun can leave your skin feeling irritated, red, and inflamed. Instead of reaching for an expensive bottle of aloe vera, try using a used tea bag instead. Grab a black tea bag, rinse it under cold water, and gently apply it to the affected area. The tannic acid in black tea has natural anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce redness and promote healing.
   2. Relieve minor burns. If you’ve accidentally touched a hot pan or burned yourself while cooking, don’t panic. Used tea bags can also work wonders for minor burns. Simply place a cooled tea bag over the burned area and let the tannins work their magic. This simple trick can provide relief and speed up the healing process without the need for expensive creams.
   3. Get rid of warts. Green tea isn’t just packed with antioxidants—it can also help get rid of warts. After you finish your cup, let the tea bag cool, then press it directly onto the wart. Leave it there for about 15 minutes before replacing it with a fresh tea bag for another 15 minutes. Repeat this process daily, and within a few days, you’ll notice the wart shrinking and eventually disappearing.

1. Reduce puffy eyes. Tired eyes? Puffy under-eye bags? Don’t rush out to buy an expensive eye cream. Instead, pop a few used tea bags into a small container and store them in the fridge for a day or two. When you’re ready, place the chilled tea bags over your eyes and relax for a few minutes. The tannins in black tea help constrict blood vessels and reduce puffiness, leaving you looking refreshed and awake.
2. Remove grease stains from dishes. Stubborn grease stains on your dishes? Don’t waste time scrubbing endlessly. Instead, let your dirty dishes soak in the sink with a few used tea bags. The natural compounds in tea help break down grease and make scrubbing much easier. This trick works especially well for pots and pans that have stubborn residue.
3. Use as a natural weed killer. Skip the chemical-laden weed killers and try using brewed black tea instead. Pour it directly onto the weeds in your garden to dry them out naturally. For a more powerful solution, mix tea with citrus peels and vinegar in a spray bottle and apply it to unwanted weeds. This natural method is not only effective but also safe for the environment.
4. Fertilize your plants. Used tea bags can be a great addition to your garden. They act as a natural fertilizer, enriching the soil with nutrients that plants love. Roses, ferns, and other houseplants thrive when tea bags or loose tea leaves are buried near their roots. You can also add them to your compost bin to give your soil an extra nutrient boost.

Have you ever tried repurposing your tea bags in any of these ways? These easy, eco-friendly hacks prove that a simple tea bag has more uses than just brewing a hot drink. Give them a try and see the benefits for yourself. And if you found these tips helpful, don’t forget to share them with your friends and family on social media!