Easter is a time of celebration, renewal, and creativity - and for many of us, decorating eggs is a much-loved tradition. But instead of reaching for synthetic food colouring or artificial dyes that can be harsh on the environment (and sometimes even our skin), why not try a more natural approach this year?
More and more people are turning to natural, affordable, and eco-friendly ways to colour Easter eggs. Not only do these methods avoid synthetic pigments, but they also make use of ingredients you might already have at home - so they’re kinder to both your wallet and the planet.
If you're looking to keep things simple, natural, and sustainable this Easter, here are four lovely, tried-and-tested ways to colour your eggs using plant-based dyes and pantry staples.
Onion Skins – For Rustic Reds and Deep Amber Tones
One of the oldest and most beautiful ways to dye eggs naturally is using onion skins. This traditional method has been passed down through generations, and for good reason - it’s incredibly easy and produces stunning results.
To do this, simply collect a generous handful of onion skins (yellow or red onions both work well). Boil them in water for about 15–20 minutes to create a rich, coloured dye bath. Then, gently add your eggs and simmer for another 10–15 minutes, or longer if you'd like a deeper colour. Leave the eggs in the dye to soak and cool for extra vibrancy.
Top Tip: Use both white and brown eggs to create different tones. The contrast is beautiful, and each egg will come out uniquely patterned.
Don’t worry - your eggs won’t smell or taste like onions, we promise!
Turmeric – For Golden Yellows and Earthy Warmth
Turmeric isn't just for curries or lattes - it’s also a wonderful natural dye. Known for its strong yellow colour and anti-inflammatory benefits in skincare, turmeric can turn eggs a gorgeous golden hue.
To make the dye, add 2–3 tablespoons of ground turmeric to a pot of boiling water, along with a splash of white vinegar (this helps the colour stick). Let the mixture simmer for 15–20 minutes. Then, place your eggs in the pot and allow them to soak. The longer they sit, the more intense the yellow becomes.
Good to Know: White eggs will come out brighter and more lemony, while brown eggs give a deeper, mustard tone.
Beetroot – For Soft Pinks and Blush Tones
If you love soft, romantic tones, beetroot is a lovely option for colouring your eggs naturally. Plus, it’s a brilliant way to use up vegetables that might otherwise go to waste.
Peel and chop a fresh beetroot or two, then simmer the pieces in water for about 30 minutes. You’ll notice the water turning a beautiful magenta shade. Once your dye is ready, remove the beets (and maybe pop them into a salad later), then add your eggs and let them soak.
For a deeper colour: Leave the eggs in the beetroot dye overnight in the fridge.
The result? Beautiful eggs in shades of rose, pink, and soft plum - no artificial colour in sight.
Coffee – For Rich Browns and Earthy Neutrals
Yes, your morning brew can do more than just wake you up! Coffee is another great natural dye for Easter eggs, creating warm brown and caramel shades.
Make a strong pot of black coffee and let it cool slightly. Place your boiled eggs into the coffee and let them sit for a few hours. The longer they rest, the richer the colour will be. The final effect is quite similar to using onion skins, but with a softer, more neutral tone.
Try this: If you want a subtle pattern, wrap the eggs in a piece of natural cloth or pop them into a mesh bag before soaking. It’ll leave a lovely textured effect on the shell.
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