When we think about keeping our kitchens clean and fresh, the usual routines come to mind: scrubbing down the counters, taking out the trash, or giving the refrigerator a good wipe inside and out. But there’s one trick, strange as it sounds, that many households are quietly swearing by: placing a roll of toilet paper inside the fridge.
At first, it seems almost laughable. Toilet paper belongs in the bathroom, not the kitchen. Yet this little household hack is gaining attention because it solves a problem we’ve all battled at one time or another — the stubborn, lingering odors that seem to cling to refrigerators no matter how often we clean them.
For older adults, especially those who grew up learning the value of frugality and practical wisdom, this trick hits all the right notes: it’s simple, it’s budget-friendly, and it works. Let’s take a closer look at why people are keeping toilet paper in their refrigerators, and why you may want to give it a try.
Why Refrigerators Develop Smells in the First Place
Almost everyone has experienced it — that dreaded moment when you open the fridge door and are met not with the aroma of fresh food, but with a stale, musty, or sour smell.
Often the culprit is not just a forgotten piece of food that went bad. Refrigerators are damp, enclosed spaces where odors build up over time. The constant cycle of cold air, condensation, and leftover food particles creates a breeding ground for bacteria and mold. Even after you’ve wiped down the shelves and tossed out anything expired, a faint smell can still linger.
