The Essential Kitchen Ingredient That May Help Keep Skunks Away

From small holes in the yard and trash cans that have been rifled through to lingering musty smells and random animal droppings, there are a few dead giveaways that there's a skunk secretly living in your yard. If you've encountered any of these telltale signs, then you're probably curious about the different ways to get unwanted skunks out of your yard. While there are several tips and tricks you can try, one of the easiest methods comes straight from your kitchen — coffee grounds. Leftover coffee grounds release an acidic smell that serves as a deterrent for all kinds of pests, including skunks. This is one of many genius ways to use leftover coffee grounds in your yard and garden, serving as a natural pest control option for those hoping to avoid harsher methods.

If you're a daily coffee drinker already, this method becomes one of the most budget-friendly approaches in trying to repel your stinky invaders. In addition to the acidic smells, coffee grounds typically compost quite quickly. This composting process emits even more unpleasant smells that skunks can't stand. Interestingly enough, both coffee and skunk spray contain the same chemical compounds (thiols), which contribute to their distinct scents.

To help deter skunks, all you need to do is save up your leftover coffee grounds for the week in a sealable container (this will ensure you have enough to get the job done). You want to use a good amount so that the scent is as strong as possible. Spread your coffee grounds in areas that skunks frequent, such as under the deck and near the garbage bins. You can also spread coffee grounds alongside mulch in your garden to reap some added benefits for your plants. Either way, you will likely need to replenish the grounds often to keep the scent potent. While not as budget-friendly, fresh coffee grounds offer more pungent protection than spent ones. 

It is important to remember that caffeine is toxic to cats and dogs, so if you have furry friends running around your yard, this might not be the best method for you. While there is no scientific evidence stating whether or not this technique works, there are plenty of real-life stories claiming success in using coffee grounds to deter skunks. Some people believe it's the acidic smell that turns skunks away, while others think that the smell of coffee signals that humans are close by. Either way, with all the added benefits of putting coffee grounds in your yard, it can't hurt to try.