Handy uses for used tea bags

Tea bag life hacks ... simple but effective. Source: Getty Images

WHO knew the humble tea bag could have so many uses?

Tea is chock-a-block full of antioxidants and goodness. It seems such a shame to throw out a tea bag after just one use.

Here are some handy ways you can get the most out of your tea bags.

Don’t throw your old tea bags away. They can be used for loads of purposes around the house. Source: Getty Images

1. Soothing minor skin irritations like sunburns, mosquito bites and cold sores

Take a cool damp tea bag and place it on the affected area to relieve inflammation and promote healing

2. Remove dark circles and rejuvenate tired, puffy eyes

Soak a used tea bag in warm water and gently place under the eye area.

3. Tea bags can make great deodorisers

To keep your footwear scent-free, tuck a dry tea bag in each overnight to absorb any odours.

4. Want to freshen up your fridge?

Place a few tea bags into a plastic container and place them in your fridge

5. Degreaser

Soaking your dishes in the sink overnight with a few tea bags will help remove tough, baked on grease. The next morning, they’ll be much easier to clean.

Who knew the humble tea bag could be so useful? Source: Getty Images

6. A few teabgs can go a long way when it comes to keeping bugs and rodents out of your home.

Simply place the tea bags in the cupboards, pantry and other problem areas. Mint flavours tend to work best — mice and bugs hate peppermint.

7. Bleeding gums

To stop the bleeding and soothe the pain from a lost or recently pulled tooth, wet a tea bag with cool water and press it directly onto your gums.

8. Clean wood furniture and floors

Boil two tea bags in a litre of water and let it cool. Dip a soft cloth in the tea, wring out the excess, and use it to wipe away dirt and grime. Buff dry with a clean, soft cloth.

9. Pimp your compost

Pour a few cups of strongly brewed tea (you can use old tea bags) into your compost heap. It will speed up the decomposition and attract acid-producing bacteria, creating desirable acid-rich compost.