UK households are being encouraged to place a bag of coffee grounds in their cars as a natural method to absorb unwanted smells and deter pests. The technique, which combines used coffee grounds with bicarbonate of soda, has gained popularity among drivers and car enthusiasts for its surprising efficiency.
How the Mixture Works
According to experts at TheKitchn, coffee grounds contain nitrogen that actively neutralises odours rather than just masking them, similar to baking soda but with a milder coffee scent. The grounds naturally absorb funky smells and leave behind a light coffee aroma. Bicarbonate of soda is widely recognised for its neutralising properties, making the combination particularly effective.
The US Department of Agriculture recommends sprinkling fresh coffee grounds or baking soda loosely in a large, shallow container placed at the bottom of refrigerators and freezers to absorb food smells.
Pest Repellent Properties
Gardening specialists at WWNursery have highlighted this approach as an effective way to repel insects. Most insects, including spiders and mosquitoes, have a keen sense of smell and find the pungent aroma of coffee grounds off-putting. The experts stated: "As unlikely as it sounds, the solution is coffee grounds! Coffee grounds are a safe and effective way to keep pests away. Coffee grounds can help repel not only mosquitoes but also other annoying insects like wasps and bees."
Preparation Instructions
To prepare the mix, households should follow these steps:
- Place the used coffee grounds on a plate or baking sheet to dry completely. This is important as wet coffee can get mouldy quickly.
- Once dry, place the coffee into a bowl, small container, or bag and add two or three spoons of bicarbonate of soda.
- Place the bowl wherever odour or pest help is needed, such as in the car, fridge, bin, or on patios and windowsills.
Andrea Blazquez, Editor of Spare Time, noted that this method has become a popular trick among car owners seeking a natural, cost-effective solution.
