Place a roll of toilet paper in the refrigerator, and you’ll be amazed at the results.
Does It Work?
Indeed, it does! Many unpleasant odors emanating from the refrigerator stem from excess moisture, leading to mold or mildew. Toilet paper, being highly absorbent, effectively absorbs the moisture responsible for the unwanted smells.
However, it is not as effective as baking soda, which not only absorbs moisture but also neutralizes acidic compounds causing odors. Some suggest applying baking soda to toilet paper before putting it in the fridge.
Despite this, let’s examine the cost difference between using baking soda and using toilet paper.
Baking soda costs approximately $0.99 per box. While inexpensive toilet paper rolls are available at around $0.84 each, they need replacement every three weeks. In contrast, baking soda lasts about three months. Therefore, there isn’t a cost advantage to switching to toilet paper.
Although toilet paper may not be the most cost-effective choice, the hack proves valuable for temporary emergency situations. It can be a lifesaver when you discover an odor in your refrigerator just before guests arrive for dinner.
Tips for Keeping Toilet Paper in the Fridge
If you choose to use toilet paper in the fridge, consider the following tips for optimal effectiveness:
Use a fresh roll – replace toilet paper rolls every three weeks.
Avoid placing the roll near potential leaks – prevent a mushy mess by keeping it away from leaks.
Conceal the roll at the back of the refrigerator – avoid an unsightly appearance next to food items.
Discard the roll after its time in the refrigerator – do not attempt to reuse it in the bathroom, as it will have absorbed odors.
Other Ways To Deodorize Your Fridge
Baking soda:
Excellent at absorbing and eliminating refrigerator smells.
Black cumin seed oil: Mix with dish soap and coat the inside of the refrigerator to refresh and deodorize.
Activated charcoal:
Available in powder, filter, or fabric form, it absorbs moisture.
Vanilla extract: Apply to a cotton ball and place it in the refrigerator for a pleasant fragrance.
Newspaper:
Crumple newspaper, place it in the fridge, sprinkle water, and let it sit for a couple of days to eliminate strong odors.
If you’re in the market for a new refrigerator, consider one with a UV light purifier. This built-in solution uses ultraviolet light to destroy bacteria and mold, providing an effective means of deodorizing the fridge without relying on other methods.
