We’ve all been there—a distracted moment in the kitchen leads to a burnt meal, leaving behind an unpleasant odor that lingers for hours, if not days. While throwing open windows or lighting candles might help, there’s a surprisingly effective and natural solution hiding in your refrigerator: fresh celery. This humble vegetable, often relegated to salads or soups, has an uncanny ability to absorb and neutralize stubborn burnt smells, offering a quick fix for culinary mishaps.

The science behind this trick lies in celery’s high water content and porous cellular structure. When exposed to smoky or burnt odors, the vegetable acts like a sponge, drawing in airborne particles responsible for the unwanted smell. Unlike artificial air fresheners that merely mask odors, celery tackles them at the source. Simply chop a few stalks and place them near the affected area, and within hours, you’ll notice a significant reduction in the burnt aroma. It’s a method passed down through generations, yet it remains lesser-known in modern households.

Beyond its odor-absorbing properties, celery brings another advantage: zero chemical residue. Commercial deodorizers often contain synthetic fragrances or volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can irritate allergies or pollute indoor air. Celery, on the other hand, is entirely biodegradable and safe, making it ideal for homes with children or pets. After use, the stalks can be composted or discarded without environmental guilt. This aligns with a growing trend toward eco-friendly solutions for everyday problems.

For best results, use celery at room temperature rather than chilled. Cold celery contracts slightly, reducing its ability to absorb odors efficiently. Cut the stalks lengthwise to expose more surface area, and arrange them on a plate near the stovetop, oven, or even inside a microwave where the smell is strongest. Some swear by lightly crushing the celery to release its natural juices, which may enhance the effect. Replace the stalks every 12 hours until the odor dissipates completely.

Interestingly, this trick isn’t limited to burnt food smells. Celery has shown promise in neutralizing other stubborn odors, such as fishy aromas or the stale scent of closed-up spaces. It’s a versatile, low-cost alternative to specialized products, proving that sometimes the simplest solutions are the most effective. Next time your kitchen bears the brunt of a cooking mishap, skip the aerosol sprays and reach for the crisper drawer instead. Your nose—and the planet—will thank you.

While celery is a star player, it’s worth noting that other fresh vegetables like lettuce or cucumber share similar properties, though to a lesser degree. What sets celery apart is its sturdy structure and longevity; it won’t wilt as quickly, allowing for prolonged odor absorption. Pairing it with baking soda or activated charcoal can create an even more powerful deodorizing duo for severe cases. However, for everyday kitchen accidents, celery alone often does the job admirably.

The next time you’re faced with the aftermath of a culinary disaster, remember that nature might have already provided the perfect remedy. Fresh celery, often overlooked, is a quiet hero in the battle against persistent odors. It’s a reminder that some of the best solutions don’t come from a lab or a spray bottle but from the earth itself. So before you resort to harsh chemicals or expensive gadgets, give this green-stalked wonder a chance. You might just be surprised by how well it works.