A recent video featuring fitness and travel influencer Tara Woodcox has gone viral, igniting significant backlash online. The clip, which originally surfaced in late 2025, has been redistributed widely on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, amassing millions of views along with a wave of disapproval. Woodcox’s suggestion to use hotel coffee machines for rinsing underwear raised concerns about hygiene and respect for shared facilities.

Content of the Video

In the video, Woodcox presented an unconventional solution for travelers who find themselves short on clean undergarments. She stated, “Say you’re traveling and you didn’t pack enough underwear and you’re like, ‘Oh my gosh, what am I going to wear tomorrow?’” She then demonstrated her method, instructing viewers to place underwear in the coffee maker instead of coffee grounds. “All you have to do is put your underwear where you put the coffee grounds, you close it, you press brew, and it puts scorching hot water through it,” she explained. Furthermore, she suggested using a bathroom hairdryer to assist in drying the items, referring to the technique as “one of the coolest tricks ever” that she had learned from a flight attendant friend.

Legal Rumors Emerge

As the video gained traction, unverified claims began circulating that a hotel chain was pursuing a $1 million lawsuit against Woodcox due to the controversial suggestion. However, there has been no formal confirmation or official statement substantiating these rumors.

Public Reaction

The reaction to Woodcox’s advice has largely been negative. Many viewers expressed their disgust, arguing that using a coffee maker for laundry purposes crossed a line of appropriateness in shared spaces. Comments flooded in, highlighting concerns about hygiene. One user remarked, “Not brilliant. Let’s bring back having consideration for others.” Another user commented on alternative cleaning methods, stating, “So they have never heard of the sink, the bathtub, or the washing machine that most hotels have available? Ultra disgusting and base behavior. Nothing like setting up a cholera outbreak.” These comments reflect a wider sentiment of disapproval regarding the idea.

Influencer Responds to Criticism

In light of the growing backlash, Woodcox addressed the criticism on her Instagram account on February 23, clarifying that she had never actually attempted the hack. “I’ve never actually done that — but this is really funny, you guys,” she stated, laughing. She explained that her intention was to humorously illustrate why one should avoid using hotel coffee pots. Woodcox mentioned that she personally steers clear of such appliances due to her belief that they are often not cleaned thoroughly. The controversy intensified when users shared an earlier video from 2023 in which she explicitly stated that she would “never” use a hotel coffee maker after hearing about others using them to wash underwear.

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