Eggshells: The eco‑friendly cleaning hack for scorched pans
A scorched pan can easily deter you from cooking again. Not only did the dish not turn out as you hoped, but now you also have to tackle the task of scrubbing the pan. The simplest solution is to use a scouring pad, which isn't suitable for delicate surfaces. A gentler and more eco-friendly solution is to use remnants of food products that usually end up in the trash.
Ideally, nothing should stick, but in reality, even experienced cooks face this unfortunate situation. Fortunately, there's an effective remedy for a scorched pan within your reach. All you need to do is use eggshells. Blended into a fine powder, they can quickly restore the pan to its best condition.
Don't throw away eggshells
Eggshells are primarily composed of calcium carbonate, which constitutes about 95% of their mass. The remaining 5% consists of other organic and mineral compounds, including proteins, collagen, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and sodium. Due to their composition, eggshells are a valuable addition to compost and a fertilizer for flowers. Furthermore, after blending, you can use them to clean scorched surfaces. They act like gentle sandpaper.
Owing to their alkaline nature, eggshells can also neutralize the taste of sour coffee. Before adding them to your morning cup, wash them thoroughly and pour boiling water over them. Then, dry and blend them into a fine powder using a blender. Add them to the filter in a drip coffee maker or to the infuser in a coffee pot—this is the best way to change the coffee's taste and quickly separate the shells from the exquisite "drink of the gods."
Eggshells can also be used in a home spa. Mix them with hand cream and rub into your hands to strengthen your nails. Use them to prepare a natural homemade scrub for cleansing the skin of your face and body.
How to make eggshell liquid for cleaning pans?
Using eggshells, you can prepare a simple and eco-friendly cleaner for scorched surfaces of dishes.
Ingredients:
- 6 eggshells,
- 250 mL of warm water,
- 1 tablespoon of baking soda.
Preparation:
- Wash and dry the eggshells thoroughly, then blend them into a fine powder. You can use a blender or mortar.
- Add warm water and a tablespoon of baking soda. Mix and apply to the dirty surface.
- Wipe with a sponge, then rinse with water.
For greasy surfaces, it's worth adding a bit of dish soap. Do not use this mixture to clean Teflon pans, as it may damage the non-stick coating. However, it works well for cast iron, steel, and ceramic pans, as well as for cleaning ovens. You can also use it for washing sinks, washbasins, or bathtubs. It effectively removes limescale and restores a white colour.
