Homeowners urged to burn coffee grounds outside their homes

Your morning coffee might be doing more than just waking you up, it could also be your best line of defence against an unexpected springtime . As Brits across the country savour their daily morning pick-me-ups, few realise that the they use could double as a powerful, natural pest repellent.

According to storage expert Chris Hutton, owner of , dried and gently burned coffee grounds release a strong, smoky aroma that acts as an effective deterrent for .

"Most people just toss their grounds in the bin," says Chris. "But if you let them dry and then smoulder them in a fireproof dish, the scent overwhelms the sensitive smell receptors of wasps, making any potential nesting area feel unsafe."

With spring now in full swing, temperatures are rising, and so is wasp activity. While many associate the insects with summer barbecues and sugary drinks, the early part of the season is when queen wasps begin quietly searching for warm, undisturbed spots to build their nests.

Common hiding places include lofts, boiler cupboards, wall cavities and even unused corners of spare rooms.

The problem is that these nests often go unnoticed until they grow in size and noise, becoming a serious and dangerous issue inside the home. Professional removal is frequently the only option at that stage, often coming with a hefty price tag.

The technique is simple, let the grounds from your used coffee dry completely, then place a spoonful in a fireproof container such as an old ashtray or metal dish. Carefully light the grounds so they smoulder and release a thick, smoky scent similar to incense.

This smell repels wasps and can be used both indoors and outside.

Chris recommends burning the grounds once or twice a week in areas where wasps are known to scout, such as attic spaces, window ledges, near extractor fans, or quiet corners of sheds and garages.

The same method can also be used during outdoor meals or garden parties to keep wasps at bay without the need for sprays or traps.

"It's about being proactive," Chris says. "If you've had wasp nests before, get ahead of it now. A bit of coffee smoke in the right spot can save you a major headache later."