Put a Roll of Toilet Paper in the Fridge? Here’s Why Some People Do It
At first glance, placing a roll of toilet paper in the refrigerator sounds like an unusual household hack. While it isn’t a scientifically proven way to improve food storage or eliminate odors, some people believe it can help absorb excess moisture and reduce unwanted smells inside the fridge.
Here’s what you should know.
The Idea Behind the Hack
Toilet paper is highly absorbent, leading some people to think it can:
- Absorb excess moisture from the refrigerator
- Help reduce musty odors
- Keep the inside of the fridge feeling drier
The theory is that a drier environment may help limit condensation, which can contribute to unpleasant smells.
Does It Really Work?
There is little scientific evidence that a roll of toilet paper is an effective deodorizer or moisture absorber for a refrigerator.
While the paper may absorb a small amount of moisture from the air, it is far less effective than products specifically designed for moisture control or odor removal.
If your refrigerator has persistent odors, the cause is usually:
- Spoiled food
- Food spills
- Dirty shelves or drawers
- A clogged or dirty drain pan
Cleaning the refrigerator thoroughly is usually a much better solution.
Better Ways to Keep Your Refrigerator Fresh
1. Clean Regularly
Wipe shelves, drawers, and door compartments with warm, soapy water or a mild cleaning solution.
2. Store Food Properly
- Keep leftovers in sealed containers.
- Wrap strong-smelling foods well.
- Check expiration dates regularly.
3. Remove Spoiled Food Promptly
Even a single forgotten item can cause unpleasant odors.
4. Use an Odor Absorber
An open box of baking soda is a well-known way to help absorb refrigerator odors. Activated charcoal products are another effective option.
5. Control Moisture
Store fruits and vegetables in the proper crisper drawers and avoid leaving standing water inside the refrigerator.
If You Want to Try the Toilet Paper Hack
If you’re curious, there’s little harm in trying it:
- Place a fresh, dry roll of toilet paper on a clean shelf.
- Replace it if it becomes damp or after a few weeks.
- Use the roll only for this purpose—don’t use it afterward for personal hygiene or around food preparation.
Just remember that it should be viewed as an experiment rather than a proven household solution.
Bottom Line
Putting a roll of toilet paper in the refrigerator is a popular internet hack based on the idea that the paper absorbs moisture and helps reduce odors. While it may absorb a small amount of humidity, there is no strong evidence that it works better than regular cleaning and proven odor absorbers like baking soda or activated charcoal. Keeping your refrigerator clean and storing food properly remain the most effective ways to keep it fresh.
