Why People Are Trying It
A strange kitchen hack has been making the rounds online: putting a roll of toilet paper in your refrigerator. The claim? It keeps food fresher, absorbs odors, and might even save you money by reducing waste. At first, it sounds silly—but the idea comes from a simple fact: toilet paper is absorbent.
How It Works
Toilet paper is made from cellulose fibers that soak up moisture. Since refrigerators often collect excess humidity, that moisture can speed up the growth of mold and bacteria, making produce spoil faster. A dry roll can take in some of this dampness, and the paper fibers may also trap odor molecules, leaving the fridge smelling a bit cleaner.
The Drawbacks
But here’s the downside—once the toilet paper gets damp, it can turn into a breeding ground for the very mold and bacteria you’re trying to avoid. Some rolls also contain dyes, fragrances, or chemicals that aren’t meant to be near food. And let’s be honest: nobody wants paper fibers floating around next to their leftovers.
Does It Really Save Money?
Some online claims suggest this trick could save “thousands” by reducing food waste. That’s an exaggeration. While the average family does lose $1,500–$3,000 worth of food to spoilage each year, the causes go far beyond moisture—like poor storage, improper temperature, or simply forgetting what’s in the back of the fridge. A roll of toilet paper won’t fix all of that.
Better Alternatives
If your goal is to keep food fresh and your fridge odor-free, there are safer and more effective options:
- Activated charcoal bags: Excellent at trapping odor molecules.
- Baking soda: A proven, food-safe odor neutralizer.
- Airtight containers: Prevent smells from spreading and keep food fresher longer.
- Paper towels in crisper drawers: Absorb excess moisture around fruits and vegetables.
- Regular cleaning: Toss expired items, wipe down shelves, and sanitize seals to stop bacteria and mold from taking hold.
The Bottom Line
Putting a roll of toilet paper in your fridge can absorb a little moisture and temporarily reduce odors, but it’s not a long-term solution. If you’re curious, try it—but use a new, unscented roll, keep it away from direct contact with food, and replace it once it gets damp.
For real freshness and savings, stick with evidence-based methods like baking soda, activated charcoal, airtight storage, and good cleaning habits. Those will do far more for your fridge—and your wallet—than a bathroom staple sitting next to the milk.
