Unpleasant odors in the car are one of the biggest concerns, especially for drivers who travel long distances and use their cars intensively daily. Expensive room fragrances, sprays, and perfumes often do not provide the expected effect. A very simple and affordable method recently circulating on social media has attracted great interest: hanging a tea bag inside the car.
Milli.Az reports that this natural, inexpensive method without the use of chemicals has been tested by thousands of people in a short time. Experts also say that this method is more effective than you might think.
Dry tea, by its natural structure, has the property of absorbing both odors and moisture particles. This helps gradually eliminate sweat, food, cigarette, and damp smells that accumulate in the car over time. Especially black tea is stronger in odor absorption due to the high tannin content it contains.
Simply placing a tea bag on the mirror, door pockets, or under the seat can cause the car to smell cleaner and fresher for several hours.
Dr. Emily Carter, a chemist conducting research on environmental odors in the USA, explains why this method is effective as follows:
"Dry tea leaves are natural adsorbents that can attract volatile substances in the air. Odors in cars usually consist of moisture and organic particles. Tea bags attract these particles and neutralize the environment. Since it contains no chemicals, it is a safe and sustainable method."
According to Carter, black tea and flavored teas like Earl Grey are more successful in masking odors.
Which teas are more effective?
- Black tea - the strongest odor-absorbing type of tea
- Green tea - gives a lighter, clean scent
- Flavored teas (Earl Grey, bergamot tea) - create a soft perfume effect in the car
- Mint tea - provides a fresh and clean air feeling
Point to note: The tea bag must be completely dry. Moist tea does not show its effect and may cause mold risk.
What to do to increase the effect?
Hang the tea bag in the part of the car exposed to sunlight - the effect speeds up.
Using multiple tea bags simultaneously in large cars gives better results.
It is recommended to change the tea bag every 1-2 weeks.
Green tea yields better results in areas with high moisture.
