Why You Should Put Toilet Paper in the Fridge – The Weird Trick That Actually Works

Let’s break down exactly why more and more people are storing toilet paper in their fridges, how it works, and whether it’s worth adding to your household routine.

The Reason Behind the Hack: Absorbing Fridge Odors

One of the main reasons people are giving this trick a shot is because toilet paper is naturally absorbent. If you’ve ever opened your fridge and been hit by a wave of unpleasant smells, you know how frustrating it can be. Leftovers, forgotten vegetables, or even strong-smelling items like fish or garlic tend to leave a lingering odor. Often, the root of these odors isn’t just the food itself—it’s the excess moisture in the refrigerator that can foster bacteria, mildew, and mold, creating that musty smell.

Toilet paper, being highly absorbent, soaks up this extra moisture, indirectly reducing the damp environment where bacteria thrive. In turn, this can minimize the intensity of bad smells circulating in your fridge.

Does Toilet Paper Really Work Better Than Other Methods?

While toilet paper does have some ability to freshen up your fridge, it’s not necessarily the best option available. Baking soda, for instance, has been a classic refrigerator deodorizer for decades. It doesn’t just absorb moisture; it neutralizes acids and basic compounds that cause strong smells.

Still, some people like to combine the two methods. One variation of this hack suggests sprinkling baking soda onto the roll of toilet paper before placing it in the fridge. This way, you get the double benefit of moisture absorption and odor neutralization.

However, there’s a practical consideration to keep in mind—cost-effectiveness.

Toilet Paper vs. Baking Soda: Which is Cheaper?

Let’s talk numbers.

• Baking Soda: A typical box of baking soda costs around $0.99. When placed in the fridge, it lasts for about three months before needing replacement

• Toilet Paper: A single roll of inexpensive toilet paper averages about $0.84. However, its lifespan in a moist fridge environment is significantly shorter. It usually needs replacing every two to three weeks since it absorbs moisture quickly and becomes soggy.

Over time, sticking to baking soda will cost less while being more effective. So, why do people still opt for toilet paper sometimes?

Emergency Odor Control: Toilet Paper to the Rescue

Here’s where the toilet paper trick shines. Let’s say you suddenly discover an unpleasant smell in your fridge just hours before guests arrive. You may not have baking soda on hand, but chances are, you do have toilet paper.

In such cases, this quick fix can offer temporary relief. Simply place a roll in the fridge, ideally in a corner or on a shelf where moisture tends to accumulate. It will start absorbing excess humidity and some of the smell immediately.

While not a long-term solution, it’s perfect in a pinch.

How to Properly Use Toilet Paper in Your Fridge

If you’re curious to try this trick, here are some practical tips to get the most out of it:

1. Choose a Basic, Unscented Roll:
   Avoid toilet paper infused with scents or lotions. Fragrance additives can mix oddly with food smells and may transfer unwanted odors to your food items.
2. Place Strategically:
   Set the roll where moisture builds up the most. Typically, this is in the back corners or near crisper drawers.
3. Change It Regularly:
   Don’t leave the same roll in the fridge indefinitely. It becomes damp over time, and a moist roll will stop being effective. Replace it every two to three weeks, or sooner if visibly wet.
4. For Maximum Impact:
   Enhance its effect by sprinkling a bit of baking soda on the roll. You’ll combine moisture absorption with odor neutralization in one easy hack.

Should You Replace Baking Soda with Toilet Paper?

In a word: No.

While toilet paper is a handy stopgap, baking soda remains the superior choice for regular, ongoing fridge maintenance. It’s specifically designed to absorb odors on a chemical level, whereas toilet paper only tackles excess moisture.