From the page: Used coffee grounds: far beyond the cup
Idea 7
Refrigerator and room deodorizer
Drying coffee grounds to absorb odors is an old trick of those who worked with coffee and didn't want smells mixing around the warehouse. It works because the grounds are full of microscopic pores and oil remnants that trap odor molecules in the air, like an invisible sponge.
What you need
- Used coffee grounds (from a filter or French press)
- A baking sheet or shallow plate
- Lidless glass jar, glass, or cup
- Paper towel or thin cloth (optional, to cover)
How to make it
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1
Spread the wet grounds on a baking sheet in a thin layer — moisture is the enemy here, because wet grounds can mold instead of drying well.
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2
Let them dry in the sun or near a window for 2 to 3 days, stirring once a day. The grounds need to be completely dry and loose, so the pores are free to absorb odors.
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3
Place the dried grounds in the glass jar or cup without closing it — the air in the fridge needs to circulate inside the container to be cleaned.
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4
If you prefer, cover the jar's mouth with paper towel held by an elastic band: air passes, but the grounds don't spill if someone bumps it.
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5
Replace the contents every 2 or 3 weeks, when the pores are saturated and the effect fades.
Finishing touches
A small open dish in the fridge takes care of strong garlic and fish smells; another in the cupboard near the kitchen bin softens the environment. After use, the grounds can still go straight into a plant pot.
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