10 Down

NYT Daily ? September 17, 2025

Soothing home remedy for puffy eyes

Answer:

TEABAGS

Hint:

Think of what you might steep in hot water that, when cooled, can reduce swelling—often found in your kitchen pantry.

Explanation:

Puffy eyes often call for a simple at-home fix, and "teabags" are a classic remedy—chilled tea bags reduce swelling thanks to their caffeine and tannins. The clue plays on the literal use of tea bags beyond brewing, hinting at their repurposed role in skincare. It’s a straightforward answer with no wordplay, just a nod to a well-known household trick.

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General solving tip

Match the clue's grammar: plural with plural, past with past. If the clue ends in 's' or uses a past-tense verb, mirror that form in the entry.

More tips → General Hints