Why You Should Always Have a Tea Bag in the Car
Keeping a tea bag in your car may seem odd, but it can absorb odors, help in emergencies, and even serve as a quick fix for minor injuries or spills. Discover the surprising benefits of this simple item.
Most of us think of tea bags as something for the kitchen. We reach for them when we want a warm drink. But what if I told you that a tea bag can be one of the most useful things to keep in your car? Let’s take a closer look at why a single tea bag could be a smart addition to your vehicle.
Tea Bags Absorb Unpleasant Odors
One of the biggest complaints drivers have is lingering smells inside the car. Fast food, damp gym clothes, spilled coffee, or even pets—all can leave behind strong odors. A dry tea bag works as a natural deodorizer.
Tea leaves contain tannins and other compounds that trap and neutralize bad smells. Simply place an unused tea bag under a seat or in the cup holder. Over a few hours, you’ll notice the air becomes fresher. Unlike chemical air fresheners, tea bags offer a gentle, natural scent without artificial fragrances or harsh chemicals.
Emergency Aid for Small Cuts and Bites
Minor injuries can happen anywhere, even when you’re on the road. Maybe you get a small paper cut, a bug bite, or a little scrape while loading groceries. A tea bag, especially black tea, contains tannic acid, which has mild antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.
If you dampen the tea bag with a bit of water and press it gently against the skin, it may help soothe the area and slow minor bleeding. While it’s not a substitute for a first aid kit, it can be helpful if you’re caught off guard.
A Quick Fix for Oily Skin
Have you ever noticed your skin getting oily or shiny while driving, especially during long trips or in the heat? Tea bags can help. They absorb oil naturally. If you don’t have facial tissues or wipes, you can gently blot your skin with a dry tea bag for a quick refresh.
This trick can be useful if you have to head straight to work, a meeting, or an event after driving. Green tea bags are particularly gentle on the skin and contain antioxidants that may calm irritation.
Handy for Cleaning Up Small Spills
Accidents happen. A coffee cup might tip over, or a water bottle might leak. A tea bag, thanks to its absorbent nature, can help soak up small spills in a pinch.
While it won’t replace paper towels, having a few tea bags in your glove box gives you an option when you need to blot up moisture quickly, whether on a seat, the dashboard, or even your clothes.
Eases Nausea or Car Sickness
Many people struggle with motion sickness, especially on long drives or winding roads. Ginger or peppermint tea bags are a simple remedy you can keep on hand. If you or a passenger starts to feel queasy, just add the tea bag to hot water from a travel mug or ask for hot water at a rest stop.
Both ginger and peppermint have long been used to settle the stomach. Even sniffing the tea bag can sometimes help ease mild nausea.1
Natural Relief for Eye Strain
Spending hours behind the wheel can lead to tired, dry, or irritated eyes, especially during long trips or late-night drives. If you take a break, dampen two tea bags with cold water and rest them over your closed eyes for a few minutes.
This trick, often used at home for puffy eyes, can also provide relief on the go. The antioxidants in tea help soothe and refresh the delicate skin around the eyes, making you feel more alert and comfortable before you continue driving.2
Useful in Unexpected Situations
A tea bag’s usefulness doesn’t end there. Imagine you’re caught outside and need to freshen your breath—green tea has mild antibacterial effects and can be chewed for a quick boost. If your shoes or gym bag start to smell, placing a tea bag inside can help neutralize odors. Even if you simply want a warm, calming drink during a break on the road, all you need is access to hot water.
How to Store Tea Bags in the Car
If you decide to keep tea bags in your car, place them in a sealed plastic bag or a small airtight container. This keeps them dry, fresh, and free from dust or moisture. Choose individually wrapped tea bags for extra protection.
FAQs
1. Can any type of tea bag work for odor absorption?
Yes, most types will help, but black tea and green tea bags are especially effective due to their higher tannin content.
2. Is it safe to use a tea bag on my skin?
Dry tea bags are generally safe for blotting skin. For cuts or bites, ensure the bag is clean and use only on minor injuries.
3. Will tea bags prevent motion sickness completely?
They can help mild symptoms, especially ginger or peppermint, but severe cases may need medical advice.
4. How often should I replace the tea bag in my car?
Change it every couple of months or sooner if it absorbs strong odors or moisture.
5. Can I use flavored tea bags for car freshness?
Yes, but keep in mind that some flavors may be stronger or more noticeable than others. Stick with natural scents if you prefer a milder aroma.
