There’s nothing quite like starting the day with a warm cup of coffee. It’s a ritual that fuels the morning and provides the perfect boost of energy. However, as the evening settles in, I find myself reaching for a cup of tea instead. The process is simple: boil water, steep a tea bag, and enjoy the soothing aroma and flavors.

Like most people, I used to toss my used tea bags into the trash without a second thought. But that all changed when my grandmother introduced me to the countless ways they could be repurposed. Since then, I have never looked at a tea bag the same way. These small, seemingly insignificant bags are packed with benefits that extend far beyond a simple drink. They can be used for skincare, home cleaning, gardening, and more—saving money and reducing waste along the way.

If you’re someone who loves finding practical, eco-friendly solutions, here are seven clever ways to make the most of your used tea bags.

1. 1. Soothe sunburns. Spending too much time in the sun can leave your skin feeling raw and irritated. Instead of reaching for store-bought lotions, try using a tea bag for natural relief. Simply take a used black tea bag, rinse it under cold water, and press it gently onto the affected area. The tannic acid in black tea helps reduce inflammation and promotes faster healing, providing an instant cooling effect that soothes the burn.
   2. Relieve minor burns. If you’ve accidentally touched a hot pan or scalded your skin with boiling water, don’t panic. Used tea bags can be an excellent remedy for minor burns. Place a cool, damp tea bag on the burned area and let the tannins work their magic. They help soothe pain, minimize redness, and promote faster healing—all without the need for expensive treatments.
   3. Get rid of warts. Green tea is full of antioxidants that can help fight unwanted warts. To try this remedy, take a cooled, used tea bag and press it directly onto the wart for about 15 minutes. Replace with a fresh tea bag and repeat the process daily. Over time, the antioxidants will help break down the wart and encourage the skin to heal naturally.

1. Reduce puffy eyes. Long nights and stress can leave your eyes looking swollen and tired. Instead of investing in pricey eye creams, try using chilled tea bags as a natural remedy. 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 tighten the skin, reduce puffiness, and leave you looking refreshed and awake.
2. Remove grease stains from dishes. Greasy dishes can be tough to clean, but tea bags can make the job much easier. Instead of scrubbing endlessly, fill the sink with warm water, drop in a few used tea bags, and let your dishes soak. The natural compounds in tea help break down grease and loosen stubborn stains, making cleanup a breeze.
3. Use as a natural weed killer. If you want to get rid of weeds without resorting to harsh chemicals, tea can be a great alternative. Simply brew black tea and pour it directly onto the weeds to dry them out naturally. For a more potent solution, mix tea with citrus peels and vinegar to create a homemade weed spray. This eco-friendly method is effective while keeping your garden chemical-free.
4. Fertilize your plants. Used tea bags make an excellent addition to your garden. They act as a natural fertilizer, enriching the soil with nutrients that plants love. Roses, ferns, and houseplants benefit from the organic compounds in tea leaves. Simply bury loose tea leaves or compostable tea bags near plant roots to nourish the soil and promote healthy growth.

Who knew that a simple tea bag could have so many uses? By reusing them in creative ways, you can enhance your home, care for your skin, and even improve your garden—all while reducing waste. 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 pass these tips along—your friends and family might thank you for it!