There’s nothing quite like starting the day with a warm cup of coffee. It’s a ritual that fuels the morning and brings a sense of comfort before tackling the day ahead. But as the evening rolls in, tea becomes the drink of choice, offering a soothing way to wind down.

The process is simple: boil some water, steep a tea bag, and enjoy. Most people, without a second thought, toss the used tea bag into the trash. But what if I told you that those little packets of brewed leaves are far more valuable than they seem?

Ever since my grandmother shared some of her tried-and-true household remedies, I’ve never thrown away a used tea bag again. These tiny leftovers are packed with benefits, offering solutions for everything from skincare to gardening. Repurposing used tea bags not only reduces waste but also helps save money and brings unexpected benefits to everyday life. Here are seven clever ways to reuse tea bags that will make you think twice before tossing them.

1. 1. Soothe sunburns. Long hours in the sun can leave skin red, inflamed, and irritated. Instead of reaching for a store-bought remedy, try using a tea bag. Take a used black tea bag, rinse it under cold water, and gently press it onto the affected area. The tannic acid in black tea helps to calm the burn, reduce redness, and accelerate skin recovery. This method provides an all-natural, cooling relief, making it a perfect go-to remedy for summer days.
   2. Relieve minor burns. Accidental burns while cooking can be painful, but a simple tea bag can provide instant relief. Just place a cool, damp tea bag directly onto the burned area. The natural tannins in black tea work to soothe pain, reduce inflammation, and promote faster healing. It’s a quick, natural fix that saves a trip to the medicine cabinet.
   3. Get rid of warts. Green tea is full of antioxidants that can help fight off unwanted warts. To try this remedy, take a cooled, used tea bag and press it directly onto the wart for 15 minutes. Replace with a fresh tea bag and repeat the process. With regular use, you’ll likely notice the wart shrinking and disappearing within a few days.

1. Reduce puffy eyes. Late nights and stress can leave eyes looking swollen and tired. Instead of buying expensive creams, try using chilled tea bags as an eye treatment. Store used tea bags in the fridge for a few hours, then place them over closed eyes for about 10 minutes. The tannins in black tea help to tighten skin and reduce puffiness, making you look more refreshed and awake.
2. Remove grease stains from dishes. If tough grease stains are making dishwashing a challenge, tea bags can help. Fill the sink with water, drop in a few used tea bags, and let your dirty dishes soak. The natural compounds in tea help break down grease, making scrubbing easier. This trick works especially well on pots and pans with stubborn residue.
3. Use as a natural weed killer. Chemical weed killers can be harsh on the environment, but a simple brewed tea solution can do the job naturally. Pour black tea directly onto unwanted weeds, or create a mixture of brewed tea, citrus peels, and vinegar to use as a homemade weed spray. This eco-friendly method is a great way to manage weeds without harming the soil.
4. Fertilize your plants. Used tea bags make an excellent addition to compost bins and garden soil. Roses, ferns, and houseplants benefit from the nutrients in tea leaves. Simply bury loose tea leaves or compostable tea bags near plant roots to enrich the soil and promote healthy growth. By using tea as fertilizer, you give your plants a natural boost without relying on synthetic chemicals.

Who knew that a simple tea bag could offer so many benefits? By reusing tea bags in creative ways, you can enhance your home, care for your skin, and even help your garden thrive. Have you ever tried any of these tea bag hacks? Which one are you most excited to try? Share your thoughts in the comments and don’t forget to spread the word—your friends and family might thank you for it!