At first glance, the idea of placing a roll of toilet paper inside your refrigerator might sound unusual—or even like a practical joke. However, this simple trick has a surprisingly useful purpose that many households are now discovering. Let’s break down why some people are doing this, the science behind it, and what it could mean for your fridge and food.
The Science of Refrigerator Odors
Refrigerators are designed to keep food fresh, but over time, smells from leftovers, strong cheeses, spoiled produce, or forgotten containers can mix together, leaving an unpleasant odor. Even after a thorough cleaning, these odors sometimes linger.
Toilet paper, surprisingly, offers a unique solution.
How Toilet Paper Works as a Deodorizer
Unlike air fresheners or chemical sprays, toilet paper doesn’t add fragrance. Instead, it helps absorb excess moisture and odors in the refrigerator. Here’s why:
- Highly Absorbent Fibers
Toilet paper is made from porous paper fibers designed to absorb liquid. When placed in a fridge, it draws in the extra moisture that often causes smells to intensify. - Moisture Reduction
Excess moisture in a refrigerator can lead to mold, mildew, and faster spoilage of fruits and vegetables. Toilet paper helps reduce this humidity, creating a drier, fresher environment. - Odor Neutralization
By trapping small particles and moisture molecules, it reduces the strength of bad odors naturally.
How to Use This Trick at Home
If you want to try this hack, follow these simple steps:
If you want to try this hack, follow these simple steps:
- Choose a Fresh Roll
- Take a new, unused roll of toilet paper. Avoid scented or colored varieties, as these may introduce chemicals or artificial smells.
- Place It in the Fridge
- Set it on a shelf where it won’t touch damp food or liquids.
- Replace Regularly
- Once the roll becomes damp or saturated, replace it with a new one (usually every 2–3 weeks).
- Combine With Cleaning
- This trick is not a substitute for cleaning. Make sure to wipe spills and remove expired food regularly.
Why People Are Talking About It
This unusual method has gained popularity on social media and lifestyle blogs because it’s:
- Affordable – Toilet paper is cheaper than specialized odor-absorbing products.
- Convenient – Most people already have it at home.
- Non-toxic – Safe for households with children and pets, unlike some chemical odor removers.
Other Household Alternatives for Fridge Odors
While toilet paper works, there are other tried-and-true methods:
- Baking Soda – A classic deodorizer that neutralizes acids and bases causing odors.
- Activated Charcoal – Extremely effective at absorbing smells.
- Coffee Grounds – Provide a strong scent that masks bad odors.
- Lemon Halves – Natural, fresh-smelling, and mildly antiseptic.
The Bigger Message: Fridge Health
If your fridge frequently develops odors that require extra hacks, it could be a sign of:
- Poor air circulation inside the appliance.
- Food being stored past its expiration date.
- Leaks or spills that haven’t been thoroughly cleaned.
- A need to check the fridge’s drainage system or temperature settings.
In this way, a roll of toilet paper in your fridge isn’t just an odd trick—it might be “telling you” that your refrigerator needs better maintenance or organization.
Final Thoughts
Placing a roll of toilet paper in your refrigerator may seem quirky, but it’s a clever and inexpensive way to absorb excess moisture and unwanted odors. While not a replacement for cleaning, it can serve as a quick fix to keep your fridge smelling fresher for longer. Sometimes, the simplest solutions really are the most effective.
