Introduction
Have you ever walked into your grandmother’s kitchen and spotted an onion studded with cloves? At first glance, it may look strange—like some old-fashioned magic spell. But when I asked my grandmother why she did it, I was stunned. It turned out to be one of those timeless, clever tricks people used long before chemical sprays or fancy gadgets existed.
Once I understood the reasons, I started doing it myself. Now, I can’t imagine not having an onion with cloves in my kitchen! This practice isn’t just quaint folklore—it’s an effective, natural, and cost-saving solution for many everyday problems.
Today, you’ll discover 9 compelling reasons to try this surprising home remedy, learn the fascinating why behind it, and get answers to frequently asked questions. By the end, you might just find yourself adopting this brilliant tradition too.
The Power of Tradition: Why Cloves and Onions?
Before diving into the list, let’s establish the basics:
✅ Cloves are highly aromatic dried flower buds known for antibacterial, antifungal, and insect-repelling properties.
✅ Onions are natural odor absorbers with sulfur compounds that have antimicrobial properties.
When combined, these humble ingredients create a powerful natural remedy that addresses multiple household and health needs without synthetic chemicals or waste.
1. Natural Air Freshener and Odor Neutralizer
✔️ How it works:
Onions absorb odors from the air while cloves release a strong, pleasant, spicy fragrance. Together, they combat kitchen smells, mustiness, and even tobacco smoke.
✅ Key Benefit:
Chemical air fresheners often contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) linked to respiratory issues. Using onions and cloves eliminates the need for them.
💡 Statistic: A 2019 EPA study found indoor air pollution can be 2–5 times higher than outdoor levels due to synthetic sprays and products.
👉 Action Tip:
Place a clove-studded onion in your kitchen or living room. Replace every few weeks or as it dries out.
2. Effective Mosquito and Insect Repellent
✔️ How it works:
Clove oil is proven to repel mosquitoes effectively. Onions add another layer of scent that insects dislike.
✅ Key Benefit:
It offers a chemical-free solution to protect your home and loved ones.
💡 Statistic:
A study published in the Journal of Vector Ecology found clove oil provided up to 100% protection against certain mosquito species for two to four hours.
👉 FAQ: Does it really keep bugs away?
Yes! Many homeowners use this trick in pantries and windowsills to deter ants, flies, and mosquitoes.
3. Ward Off Moths and Pantry Pests
✔️ How it works:
The strong aroma of cloves disrupts moths and other pantry pests.
✅ Key Benefit:
Protects grains, flour, and dry goods naturally.
👉 Action Tip:
Store a clove-studded onion near your pantry shelves to repel pests without harmful insecticides.
✅ FAQ: Is it safe near food?
Absolutely—it’s all-natural and non-toxic.
4. Powerful Antibacterial Properties
✔️ How it works:
Clove contains eugenol, known for its antibacterial power, while onions have allicin-like sulfur compounds with antimicrobial activity.
✅ Key Benefit:
Helps purify the surrounding air and reduce bacterial contamination on surfaces.
💡 Statistic:
A 2020 study in Frontiers in Microbiology highlighted clove essential oil’s effectiveness against E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus.
👉 FAQ: Can it replace disinfectants?
While not a direct replacement for surface cleaners, it’s a helpful extra layer of protection for air and surfaces.
5. Economical and Eco-Friendly
✔️ How it works:
A single onion and a few cloves cost mere cents but last for weeks.
✅ Key Benefit:
Reduces waste and chemical use in the home.
💡 Statistic:
The average American household spends over $50/year on air fresheners and insect repellents—this simple swap can cut that significantly.
👉 FAQ: How often should I replace it?
About every 2–4 weeks, or sooner if it dries out completely.
6. Traditional Remedy for Colds and Congestion
✔️ How it works:
Onion vapors can help open nasal passages; clove’s aroma is soothing and warming.
✅ Key Benefit:
Many people place a clove-studded onion near the bed during colds to ease breathing.
👉 FAQ: Is there scientific proof?
While it’s largely traditional, both onion and clove vapors have mild expectorant and antimicrobial qualities.
✅ Action Tip:
Cut an onion in half, stick cloves in it, and place it on a bedside table when you’re congested.
7. Repel Rodents Naturally
✔️ How it works:
Rodents hate the strong, pungent aroma of onions and the spicy kick of cloves.
✅ Key Benefit:
Acts as a safe, non-toxic deterrent without traps or poisons.
👉 FAQ: Where should I place it?
Near entry points or dark corners where rodents might sneak in.
✅ Pro Tip:
Refresh or replace your onion regularly to keep the scent strong.
8. Creates a Beautiful, Rustic Decorative Piece
✔️ How it works:
When studded symmetrically, a clove-onion ball looks like a classic pomander.
✅ Key Benefit:
Adds a charming, vintage touch to your kitchen or living space.
👉 FAQ: Is this the same as a pomander?
Yes! Traditionally, pomanders were made with oranges and cloves, but onions work too and absorb odors better.
9. Sustainable and Zero-Waste Solution
✔️ How it works:
You can compost the entire onion with cloves when done.
✅ Key Benefit:
No plastic waste, no chemical residues—just natural, biodegradable materials.
👉 FAQ: What do I do with it when it dries?
Simply toss it into your compost or garden soil to enrich it naturally.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How do you make a clove-studded onion?
A: Peel the outer dry skin. Press whole cloves into the onion’s surface in a pattern or randomly. Store it on a plate or in a bowl.
Q: How many cloves do I need?
A: About 15–30 cloves for one medium onion is typical, but you can use as many as you want for stronger scent and effect.
Q: How long does it last?
A: Typically 2–4 weeks. Replace once it becomes too dry or loses its scent.
Q: Does it work better with certain onion types?
A: Yellow or white onions are most common, but any variety will do. Red onions also work and add color.
Q: Can I use clove oil instead of whole cloves?
A: Yes! You can drip clove oil onto an onion for even stronger aroma, but whole cloves last longer.
Benefits at a Glance
✅ Chemical-free air freshener
✅ Natural insect repellent
✅ Moth and pantry pest deterrent
✅ Antibacterial properties
✅ Cost-effective and eco-friendly
✅ Helps with congestion
✅ Rodent repellent
✅ Decorative and rustic
✅ Zero-waste solution
The Science Behind It
While much of this practice is rooted in tradition, scientific studies support its components:
✅ Cloves – Contain eugenol, a potent antimicrobial and insect repellent.
✅ Onions – Release sulfurous compounds that neutralize odors and have mild antibacterial effects.
When combined, they form a simple, effective synergy.
Why This Old Trick Is Making a Comeback
As consumers turn away from chemical-laden products, time-tested, low-cost solutions are experiencing a renaissance. Social media and eco-friendly influencers have popularized these practices as safer, more sustainable alternatives.
👉 2022 Nielsen Report: Sales of natural air care products grew by over 8% year over year.
👉 Google Trends: Searches for “natural air freshener” and “natural insect repellent” have doubled in the past five years.
This is more than just nostalgia—it’s a smart choice in a modern, health-conscious world.
Actionable Tips to Get Started
✅ Choose a fresh, firm onion.
✅ Use whole cloves with strong aroma.
✅ Place in a well-ventilated but central spot in your home.
✅ Replace every 2–4 weeks.
✅ Experiment with patterns for decorative effect.
✅ Combine with other natural remedies for comprehensive coverage.
Conclusion
When my grandmother told me why she stuck cloves into an onion, I was honestly surprised. It wasn’t just an old habit—it was a brilliant, multi-purpose, natural solution for a range of problems.
From freshening air to repelling insects, from warding off pests to reducing household costs, this humble tradition delivers surprising power. In a world overwhelmed by artificial fragrances and toxic sprays, this small act feels revolutionary.
I now do it myself, and I encourage you to try it too. It’s affordable, sustainable, effective, and rooted in generations of wisdom. Next time you see cloves and onions at the store, don’t just think of them as ingredients. Think of them as your new secret weapon for a healthier, fresher, and more natural home.
So why wait? Try it today, and see for yourself why this old-fashioned trick is still the best-kept secret in modern homes.
