The Magic of Overnight Brewed Tea: Discover the Surprising Benefits

Don’t throw away that leftover tea just yet! While drinking overnight tea is not recommended, it has several practical uses around the house. Here are some clever ways to reuse overnight tea instead of pouring it down the drain.

Feed Your Plants

Overnight tea can be a great fertilizer for your plants and flowers. Nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and other essential elements found in tea provide vital nutrients that promote plant growth. Caffeine in tea also acts as a natural pesticide, keeping those pesky bugs at bay.

However, do not pour undiluted overnight tea directly onto the roots. Instead, mix it with water at a ratio of 1:10, and then water your plants with this solution. For an even more potent plant food, try fermenting tea leaves. Place the used tea leaves in a sealed container with a bit of water and probiotics, and let it sit in a sunny spot for 30-45 days. Then, strain the liquid, dilute it with clean water, and use it to water your plants or spray on the leaves to deter fungi and insects. Remember, as with any fertilizer, don’t overdo it!

Grease-Busting Dishwasher

The tea’s essential oils and theophylline are excellent at cutting through grease and neutralizing odors. So, instead of reaching for chemical-laden detergents, try washing your dishes with overnight tea. Simply soak or scrub your dishes with the tea, and then rinse them with clean water. Say goodbye to greasy residue and hello to sparkling clean dishes!

Odor Neutralizer

Overnight tea can also come to your rescue when it comes to tackling unpleasant odors. Tea leaves are highly effective at absorbing odor-causing molecules. To eliminate fridge odors, place a bowl of overnight tea inside, and by the next day, the fridge will smell fresh again. For trash can odors, pour overnight tea into a spray bottle and spritz it directly into the trash can.

Wood Polish

Here’s a surprising use for overnight tea—wood polishing! Simply soak a soft cloth in overnight tea and use it to wipe down your wooden furniture. Not only will this method make your furniture shine, but it will also help prevent scratches and keep the wood from looking old and dull. The tannic acid in tea acts as a natural cleaner and polish, giving your furniture a new lease of life.

Additionally, you can use overnight tea as a mouthwash to eliminate bad breath. Gargle with the tea for about 10 seconds before spitting it out and repeating 2-3 times. Finish by brushing your teeth as usual, and say goodbye to embarrassing mouth odors!