Camilla Jessen
No alarms. No cameras. Just a coffee cup.
No alarms. No cameras.
Just a coffee cup and a clever trick to boost your nighttime safety.
The Coffee Cup Trick That Could Keep You Safer
Did you know that your everyday ceramic coffee mug can do more than help you wake up in the morning?
A viral home security hack shows how this simple object can act as a DIY alarm system without spending a cent.
This tip, shared by House Digest, is catching on fast among travelers, students, and renters who want a little more peace of mind at night.
A Mug as a Motion Detector? Yes, Really
Forget high-tech gear. To try this trick, all you need is a ceramic mug and your doorknob.
Before going to bed, hang the mug on the outside handle of your door.
If someone tries to enter during the night, the movement will cause the mug to fall and shatter on the floor — the sound is loud enough to wake you up and scare off intruders.
For extra noise, you can even drop a metal spoon inside the cup.
Who Can Use This Trick?
This method is especially helpful for:
- Students living in dorms
- Travelers staying in hotels or Airbnbs
- Tenants who can’t install alarms
- Anyone in temporary housing or areas with power outages
It’s also handy if you’re staying in a place where you don’t trust the door lock completely.
How to Set It Up
Here’s how to use the method effectively:
- Hang the cup on the outer edge of the doorknob — not too deep, or it won’t fall easily.
- Add a spoon for more impact.
- For extra volume, place a glass of water behind the door and balance the mug on it. When the door opens, everything comes crashing down.
If you’re on a carpeted floor, try using a small bell or wind chime instead — something that makes a clear sound even on soft surfaces.
A Clever Extra, Not a Replacement
This trick doesn’t replace a real alarm system, but it’s a great backup, especially while traveling.
It takes less than ten seconds to set up and could alert you to a potential break-in.
Pro Tip for Travelers
Headed on a trip? Pack a mug in your luggage. It might be the cheapest — and most unexpected — safety tool you bring.
