Boil eggshells in a saucepan – it’s smart and saves a lot of money

#### Step 3: **Boil the Eggshells**
– Fill the saucepan with enough water to cover the eggshells completely. Bring the water to a boil and let the eggshells simmer for 10-15 minutes. This process softens the shells and helps release their calcium content.

#### Step 4: **Cool and Strain the Liquid**
– Once the eggshells have been boiled, remove the pan from the heat and let the liquid cool down. Strain the liquid to remove the eggshells, and you’ll be left with calcium-rich water.

#### Step 5: **Store the Water or Use Immediately**
– Use the boiled eggshell water immediately for plants or composting. If you have extra water, store it in a jar and refrigerate it for later use.

#### Step 6: **Repurpose the Eggshells**
– After boiling, the eggshells can be crushed and added to compost, used in DIY crafts, or ground into a fine powder for use as a supplement for pets or as a natural cleaning agent.

### Additional Tips for Using Eggshells:

– **Incorporate Eggshells into Your Garden:** Crushed eggshells can be sprinkled directly onto the soil in your garden to deter pests like slugs and snails. The sharp edges make it uncomfortable for them to crawl over.

– **Recycling for Health Benefits:** If you’re a gardener or a homesteader, consider using your eggshells for multiple purposes, such as creating homemade calcium supplements or as a natural pest deterrent.

– **Eggshell Powder for Cooking:** While less common, some people grind the boiled eggshells into a fine powder and use them as a calcium supplement for themselves or as an additive to smoothies or shakes.

### Why Boiling Eggshells Saves Money:

1. **Eco-Friendly Gardening:** Instead of buying expensive fertilizers or plant supplements, you can create your own nutrient-rich solution from boiled eggshells. Not only does this reduce your carbon footprint, but it also cuts down on the need to purchase commercial fertilizers that often contain harsh chemicals.

2. **Waste Reduction:** Boiling eggshells and reusing them for your garden, crafts, or pet care helps reduce kitchen waste. This small habit contributes to a more sustainable lifestyle and can even save you money on gardening supplies.

3. **Boosting Pet Health:** If you have pets, adding ground eggshells to their diet can save you money on calcium supplements, and it’s a more natural way to support their bone health.

### Conclusion:

Boiling eggshells in a saucepan is a simple and practical way to make use of an otherwise discarded kitchen item. Whether you’re using the nutrient-rich water for your plants, turning the shells into natural fertilizer, or repurposing them for crafts or pet care, this hack saves you money and helps reduce waste.

Next time you crack open eggs, don’t toss the shells away—boil them instead! This small, sustainable practice can make a big difference in your home and garden while contributing to a more eco-friendly lifestyle.