Wasps & Coffee
In short: Smouldering dry ground coffee or coffee grounds can repel wasps because they dislike the smoke and intense burnt-coffee smell. Place well-dried coffee in a heat-resistant dish, light it carefully so it smoulders rather than flames, and set it securely on a garden table or patio.

You’re sitting outside enjoying a cup of coffee and there they are again: those annoying wasps. Nothing is more irritating than constantly swatting at the air when you just want to enjoy the lovely weather. Luckily there’s a simple and natural solution: repelling wasps with coffee. It might sound odd, but the smell of smouldering coffee keeps those buzzing intruders at bay. Want to know how it works and how to try it yourself? Follow the tips below.

Why does coffee work against wasps?

Wasps have an extremely sharp sense of smell, and you can use that to your advantage. The smell of smouldering coffee might be pleasant and spicy to us, but for wasps it’s an absolute nightmare. They hate the smoke and the intense smell of burned coffee grounds or coffee beans and would rather stay well away.

On top of that, coffee is a natural alternative to chemical pesticides. You don’t need to use any toxic sprays and you repel the wasps in an animal-friendly way. A win-win!

How do you use coffee to repel wasps?

Repelling wasps with coffee is very simple. Follow these steps to quickly get rid of those annoying buzzing visitors:

  1. Use dry coffee or coffee grounds: Freshly ground coffee or dried coffee grounds work best. Make sure they’re well dried out so they smoulder easily.

  2. Place it in a heat-resistant dish: Use a fireproof dish, an aluminium tray or an old coffee cup, for example.

  3. Light the coffee: Use a lighter or match to carefully light the coffee. It won’t actually flame up, but will smoulder and release smoke.

  4. Put it in the right spot: Place the dish on your garden table or patio, in a safe spot where it can’t fall over.

Avoid using instant coffee, as it doesn’t have the same effect as ground coffee or coffee grounds.

Extra tips to keep wasps at bay

Although coffee is an effective way to repel wasps, there’s more you can do to keep them away. Here are a few extra tips:

  • Put out lemon with cloves
  • Use vinegar or essential oils
  • Keep food and drink covered
  • Wear neutral clothing
  • Stay calm

What you should NOT do: swat at wasps or disturb their nest. This can make them aggressive and attract even more wasps!

Frequently asked questions about wasps and coffee
Does any type of coffee work to repel wasps?

Ground coffee and dry coffee grounds work best. Instant coffee, on the other hand, does not.

Should I roast the coffee or just display it?

You need to let the coffee smoulder so that it gives off smoke. This ensures that wasps stay far away from your terrace.

Is it safe to burn coffee?

Yes, as long as you use a heat-resistant container and do not leave it unattended, it won’t do any harm.

How long does the effect of freshly roasted coffee last?

On average 15-30 minutes, depending on how much coffee you use.