- 1Rinse eggshells to remove raw egg residue
- 2Crush or grind shells into small pieces for faster decomposition
- 3Allow shells to dry before adding to compost (optional)
- 4Save in a container until you have enough to add to compost
- 5Mix well into compost pile to distribute calcium
- Home compost bins
- Worm composting bins (crushed only)
- Municipal food waste programs
- Backyard chicken feed supplement
- Direct garden application (crushed)
Crushing eggshells speeds decomposition from months to weeks. They add calcium to compost and can help balance pH in acidic soils.
Americans consume 80 billion eggs annually, generating over 150,000 tons of eggshells. Composting returns calcium carbonate to soil, reducing need for lime amendments.
- Grind and feed back to chickens for calcium supplement
- Add directly to garden soil around tomatoes and peppers
- Use in seed starting to prevent damping off
- Create calcium water for houseplants
Accepted
- Chicken eggshells
- Duck and quail eggshells
- Any other bird eggshells
Not Accepted
- Eggshells with significant egg residue (rinse first)
- Decorated or dyed eggshells (some programs)
Estimated value: Natural source of calcium worth $15-25 per pound as supplement; free soil amendment
Do eggshells need to be washed before composting?
A quick rinse is recommended to prevent odors from raw egg residue, but it's not absolutely necessary for composting.
How long do eggshells take to decompose?
Whole shells can take 6-12 months. Crushed shells break down in 3-6 months. Finely ground shells decompose in weeks.
Can eggshells go in worm bins?
Yes, but crush them first. Worms don't eat shells directly, but the grit aids their digestion and shells add calcium to vermicompost.