How to clean with coffee grounds thumb

Coffee is a daily essential for many of us. In fact, two-thirds of Americans drink coffee every day, averaging about three cups, according to a spring 2025 report from the National Coffee Association.

With the rising prices of seemingly everything, more people are opting to make coffee at home. And with each cup of steaming or iced coffee made on a machine that doesn't use pods comes leftover coffee grounds. The grounds create magic in your cup — and they can work magic around your home, too.

Watch this video for three creative ways to use coffee grounds.

What can I do with used coffee grounds

There’s a lot you can do with used coffee grounds. Next time you make a cup of coffee, consider using the grounds to:

Deodorize your fridge. Put the used grounds in an uncovered plastic container or bowl and set them in the fridge. This is an easy alternative to baking soda.

Clean your pots and pans. Add a spoonful of grounds, dish soap and water to the pot, then scrub. The coffee grounds act as a mild abrasive and help remove debris caked onto your cookware without scratching. Be careful not to use too many grounds, as they can clog your sink drain.

Make an exfoliating body scrub. Mix used coffee grounds with coconut oil, and it’s ready to use. Keep it in the shower or kitchen so you can exfoliate and moisturize anytime. Add a couple of drops of your favorite essential oil, and it makes a great gift or addition to a guest bathroom.

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Are used coffee grounds good for plants

One popular way to upcycle coffee grounds is to sprinkle them into your garden or houseplants.

Rinse the grounds with water to remove excess caffeine, then let them fully dry before sprinkling some on top of the soil. Too much can be harmful, so use it sparingly and toss the rest into your compost.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Yes, you can repurpose used coffee grounds. This video shows you how.

Reporting by Cody Godwin, USA TODAY / USA TODAY

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