Every woodworking project leaves behind sawdust, and mills create it by the ton.
Instead of taking up space in landfills, though, saw dust can be put to good use in many ways.
In the Garden Recycled sawdust can be used as is for mulching around plants.
Left to decompose in the compost pile for a while, it becomes a rich plant fertilizer.
Be sure to take a soil sample and test the pH, though, because some types of sawdust can make soil highly acidic.
Also, some types of wood (walnut, for example) contain natural herbicides and will harm plants, so it pays to do a little research.
Another good use for recycled sawdust is mulching paths.
Along with providing a soft place for feet to land, sawdust will help prevent soil erosion.
And certain types of sawdust will even prevent weeds from poking through the path.
Around the House Need to clean up spilled oil? Spread your recycled sawdust over the shop or garage floor, then sweep.
The sawdust absorbs any grime or spills, making cleanup a snap.
The absorbency of sawdust also comes in handy for disposing of almost empty paint cans.
Sprinkle in some sawdust, let it absorb any remaining paint, then let it dry before tossing the can in the trash.
An excellent home use of sawdust and wood chips is smoking.
Each type of wood lends a unique flavor to foods.
Use clean hardwoods free of resin, glue, nails, and so on.
Soak the woodchips, then wrap in foil and poke numerous holes into the foil.
Place the foil packet directly on hot charcoals, or near the heat source of a gas grill.
The wood needs to get very hot to create the smoke that will flavor your meat.
Mixed with wax, your recycled sawdust can become an excellent fire starter brick.
Simply pack leftover sawdust and wood shavings into an empty paper towel roll or a tray made from foil.
Melt wax in a double boiler, then pour over the shavings.
Once the wax cools and hardens, you will have a homemade starter log.
Try making some for your next camping trip! If you have piles of sawdust and wood chips left behind after a project, don't just throw them in the trash.
Try a few of these methods to recycle sawdust instead.
You will be saving money and protecting the environment at the same time.