2. Repel Garden Pests

Wood ashes act as a natural pest deterrent, keeping slugs, snails, and certain insects away from plants.

How to Use:

  1. Sprinkle a small circle of ashes around the base of plants.
  2. Reapply after rain, as water washes away the ash barrier.

3. De-Ice Walkways

The gritty texture of wood ashes provides traction and helps melt ice on slippery surfaces.

How to Use:

  1. Spread wood ashes evenly over icy walkways or driveways.
  2. Allow the sun to activate their ice-melting properties.

4. Clean Glass and Metal

The fine abrasiveness of wood ashes makes them an effective cleaner for glass, stainless steel, and tarnished silver.

How to Use:

  1. Mix wood ashes with a small amount of water to form a paste.
  2. Apply the paste to the surface using a soft cloth.
  3. Rinse and buff with a clean, dry cloth.

5. Neutralize Odors

Wood ashes can absorb and neutralize odors in your home or garden.

How to Use:

  1. Place a small bowl of wood ashes in areas prone to bad smells, such as garbage bins or musty basements.
  2. Replace the ashes once they lose their effectiveness.

6. Control Algae in Ponds

Wood ashes can help limit algae growth by increasing the potassium level in pond water.

How to Use:

  1. Add 1 tablespoon of wood ashes per 1,000 gallons of water.
  2. Monitor the pond to ensure the ashes don’t overly alter the water’s pH.

7. Polish Silver

Ashes can restore the shine to tarnished silverware.

How to Use:

  1. Mix ashes with a bit of water to create a paste.
  2. Rub the paste onto silverware using a soft cloth.
  3. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a clean towel.

8. Boost Compost

Wood ashes add essential nutrients to your compost pile, enriching the final product.

How to Use:

  1. Sprinkle a thin layer of wood ashes between compost layers.
  2. Avoid adding too much, as it can make the compost overly alkaline.

9. Make Homemade Soap

Wood ashes can be used to create lye, a key ingredient in traditional soap-making.

How to Use:

  1. Place ashes in a large container and pour water over them.
  2. Let the mixture sit for a few days, stirring occasionally.
  3. Strain the liquid to extract lye water for soap-making.

10. Shine Your Garden Tools

Wood ashes can remove rust and grime from gardening tools.

How to Use:

  1. Dampen a cloth and dip it in dry wood ashes.
  2. Scrub the tools with the ash-coated cloth.
  3. Rinse and dry the tools thoroughly to prevent further rusting.

11. Freshen Chicken Coops

Wood ashes can help control moisture and odor in chicken coops.

How to Use:

  1. Spread a thin layer of ashes on the coop floor or mix it with bedding material.
  2. Replace or refresh the ashes as needed.

12. Create a DIY Fertilizer Tea

Ashes can be used to make a nutrient-rich liquid fertilizer.

How to Use:

  1. Fill a cloth bag or old pillowcase with wood ashes.
  2. Submerge the bag in a large bucket of water for 24–48 hours.
  3. Use the ash tea to water your plants.

13. Remove Skunk Odor

Wood ashes can help neutralize the pungent smell of skunk spray.

How to Use:

  1. Mix ashes with water to create a thick paste.
  2. Apply the paste to the affected area, whether on skin or fur.
  3. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

14. Extend the Life of Vegetables

Wood ashes can help preserve root vegetables like carrots and potatoes.

How to Use:

  1. Layer a box or container with wood ashes.
  2. Place the vegetables in the container, ensuring they don’t touch each other.
  3. Cover with another layer of ashes and store in a cool, dry place.