Turn holiday mess into magic: Clever uses for Christmas tree needles
Christmas trees are a beautiful part of holiday decorations until they shed needles. Then, they become a problem because we must vacuum the floor frequently. However, you don't have to throw them away. They can be put to good use.
Live Caucasian fir and common spruce are often considered ideal Christmas trees; they look beautiful and smell wonderful. However, they have one significant drawback: they quickly shed needles and can make a mess on the floor. Most people simply gather the needles and throw them in the trash, but that's a mistake! Thanks to the tree needles, you can clean more effectively or relax with a pleasant bath.
Unusual uses for Christmas tree needles
The needles from a Christmas tree can be useful for household cleaning. You can use them to create your own detergent that will make surfaces and dishes shine. It doesn't matter what type of needles you use—those from spruce, fir, or pine will be equally effective. How do you do it?
You need a jar with a capacity of about 1 quart. Put the needles in it, then cover them with vinegar and seal tightly. Leave it for about 2-3 weeks, then strain and dilute with water in equal proportions. Pour the solution into a container with a dispenser. Use it to polish mirrors, glass, and kitchenware. And that's not all—this solution also helps remove residue from the shower cabin and is effective for mopping floors and dusting furniture.
Other ways to use fallen needles
What can you do with the excess needles? You can use them to create a fragrance sachet for your closet. Simply place the needles that have fallen from the tree in a fabric bag with a cotton ball soaked in alcohol. Then, place it in a closet, drawer, or even in the car to enjoy a pleasant, forest-like scent.
You can also use leftovers from the tree to prepare aromatic bath salts. Simply spread a handful of needles on a tray and let them dry on a radiator overnight. The next day, grind them into a fine powder in a food processor and mix with coarse salt. Transfer the mixture to a jar, seal tightly, and set aside for 2-3 days. The ready aromatic salt can be added to your bath by using 2-3 tablespoons in the water.
You can use the needles in the garden as a natural mulch. They help retain water in the soil and protect plants from winter cold. Due to their acidifying properties, they can be used for acid-loving plants, such as heathers, rhododendrons, azaleas, and hydrangeas.
