Ashes are often considered useless waste, especially after lighting a fireplace, wood-fired oven, or campfire. However, what many do not know is that these “ashes” contain an impressive wealth of properties and applications that make them the so-called “Grey Gold”.
In this article, we’ll explore why you shouldn’t throw them away and how they can be harnessed in a variety of practical uses, from gardening to household cleaning.
Various uses of “Grey Gold” ashes
Natural fertilizer for the garden Wood ashes contain potassium, calcium, and magnesium, essential elements for healthy plant growth. Sprinkling them in small amounts on the soil can help enrich it, especially for crops that prefer alkaline soil like tomatoes or roses.
Pest Control The ashes act as a natural barrier against slugs and snails. Sprinkle a thin layer around your plants to keep these pests at bay.
Odor Neutralizer Place a container of ashes in enclosed areas such as closets or pantries to absorb bad odors. Its absorption capacity is similar to that of baking soda.
Artisanal soap making Since ancient times, ashes have been used to produce bleach, a key component in making homemade soap. By mixing water and ashes, a natural soap base can be obtained.
Winter thaw Instead of using salt to melt the ice, the ashes can be scattered over slippery roads. Not only does this melt the ice, but it also improves traction.
Cleaning Kitchen Utensils With a mixture of ash and water, a paste can be created that is effective in cleaning cast iron pans and removing stubborn stains.
Water purifier Although it is a lesser-known use, in emergency situations, ashes can be used to filter impurities from water due to their alkaline properties.
Composting Adding ashes to compost can balance acidity levels and enrich the final result. However, this should be done sparingly to prevent the compost from being too alkaline.
Crop protection against fungi Sprinkling ash on plant leaves and stems can help prevent fungal growth, thanks to its ability to reduce moisture.
