Sold outLotus Glass Teapot€19.98Creative uses for used tea leaves
Good loose leaves give more than one cup. Once they are truly spent, they can still be useful around the house and garden.
Start by getting the most out of them. Then dry or compost what is left, so nothing goes to waste.
- 01
Brew again first
Most oolongs, pu-erh and many green teas give several infusions. Add a little time with each one. Rosebuds and chrysanthemum can often be steeped a second time as well; follow the guidance on the pack.
- 02
Compost
Spent tea leaves and botanical teas are a welcome addition to the compost heap or green bin. Tea bags only go in if they are made without plastic.
- 03
Feed the garden
Dried leaves can be worked into the soil around plants or used as a thin mulch. Use them in moderation and mix them with other organic material.
- 04
Absorb odours
Dried, used leaves absorb smells. Put them in a small open dish in the fridge, or in a cotton pouch in a cupboard, and replace them every week or two. Make sure they are completely dry, or they may turn mouldy.
- 05
Sweep up dust
An old household trick: scatter damp, used leaves on a hard floor or rug before sweeping. They gather dust so it does not fly up. Test first on light-coloured surfaces, as tea can stain.
- 06
Care for your teaware
Never leave wet leaves in a teapot overnight. Empty and rinse the pot after use and let it dry with the lid off. This keeps glass, porcelain and clay clean and free of stale smells.
