Clever uses for coffee filters
Coffee filters are a household staple and something many of us always keep stocked in our cupboards.
They’re not only good for making a cup of coffee though – there’s plenty of ways you can repurpose coffee filters around the home.
Check out a few of our favourites, then find out what you can do with leftover coffee grounds, too!
Make an air freshener
Coffee filters work well as homemade air fresheners. Put a few scoops of bicarbonate of soda into the filter and tie shut – they work well in shoes and closets, cupboards, and even the fridge. You can also make drawer fresheners using lavender instead of baking soda, or even add your favourite potpourri.
Catch soil leakage
Prevent soil from leaking through the bottom of your flower or plant pots by placing a coffee filter in the bottom before repotting. The coffee filter will allow water to drain through but will catch any soil that might be tempted to go along with it.
Filter cork
If you’ve ever lost a bit of cork in a bottle of wine you’ll know how irritating it can be to try and retrieve it. Next time you have cork droppings, try this trick instead and decant your wine into a glass or jug through a coffee filter. The filter will catch even the smallest bits of cork and won’t compromise the flavour of the wine.
As a cheese cloth alternative
If you have a colander or strainer that’s too large, line it with a coffee filter first. Liquid will still strain through but you’ll catch small bits like pulp and seeds easily.
For the microwave
Coffee filters are microwave safe, and are especially useful for covering bowls and plates to prevent splatter.
Polish mirrors
Coffee filters are ideal for cleaning mirrors, glasses and even monitors without scratching or leaving behind lint. Simply use your favourite spray and wipe away for a streak-free finish.
Create a funnel
You can use a cone-shaped coffee filter to quickly create a funnel to use around the house – and even for adding windscreen washer to the car! Cut the end off the filter and you’ll have a ready-to-use funnel.
Protect dishes
You can protect your occasional-use dishes and fine china easily with the help of coffee filters by placing a filter in between plates and bowls.
DIY teabags
If you have loose leaf tea or herbs but don’t have a tea strainer to hand, you can use coffee filters to strain the tea through or make your own teabag to add to the pot. Cut a coffee filter in half if it’s too large, add your tea and firmly tie shut. Place in your teapot and pour over the boiling water. Job done!
Do you know any clever uses for coffee filters? Share your knowledge in the comments below!
Rachel - Silversurfers Assistant Editor
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