Social media trends often spark curiosity, and the recent toilet paper in the fridge hack is no exception. This unusual method suggests placing a roll of toilet paper in your refrigerator to absorb odors. But does it really work? We consulted kitchen and appliance experts to separate fact from fiction.
The Toilet Paper Theory: Absorbency vs. Effectiveness
The premise behind this hack lies in toilet paper’s absorbent nature. Moisture contributes to mildew and unpleasant smells in the refrigerator. Proponents believe toilet paper absorbs this excess moisture, thereby eliminating odors. While there’s some logic to this, is it the most effective solution? References to this trick date back to 2015, but its recent resurgence on platforms like TikTok and Facebook raises questions about its true efficacy.
Toilet Paper in the Fridge: A Temporary Fix?
Toilet Paper Rolls in a Refrigerator
While toilet paper might offer a slight improvement, our findings suggest it’s a temporary fix at best. Amy from AmyandRose.com, who tested the method to combat fishy odors, confirmed its limited effectiveness. It might absorb some smells, but it’s not a long-term solution. Furthermore, there are more efficient, space-saving, and aesthetically pleasing alternatives.
Superior Solutions for Refrigerator Odor Control
Let’s explore proven methods to keep your refrigerator smelling fresh:
The Baking Soda Standard
Baking soda remains a household staple for odor absorption. Its popularity stems from its ability to neutralize acidic odors, the primary source of unpleasant smells in refrigerators. Remember to replace baking soda every three months for optimal performance and avoid using deodorized baking soda for baking.
Black Cumin Seed Oil: A Natural Deodorizer
Corinne Segura, a building biologist and founder of My Chemical-Free House, recommends black cumin seed oil. Its potent deodorizing properties effectively neutralize methyl mercaptan, a chemical responsible for rotten smells. Segura suggests mixing five drops of the oil with dish soap, applying it to the fridge’s interior, and rinsing after two hours.
Activated Charcoal: Odor Trapping Powerhouse
Activated charcoal, available in various forms, effectively traps odor-causing particles. Whether in powder, filter, or fabric form, activated charcoal provides long-lasting odor control. Replace it monthly to maintain its effectiveness.
Vanilla Extract: A Sweet Solution
For a pleasant aroma, try vanilla extract. Soak a cotton ball in vanilla extract and place it in your refrigerator. This simple trick masks odors and leaves a delightful bakery-like scent.
UV Light Purifiers: High-Tech Odor Elimination
For a technological approach, consider a refrigerator with a UV light filter. These purifiers sanitize the air and surfaces inside the fridge, eliminating odor-causing bacteria and mold. Brands like Samsung offer UV deodorizing filters in their Bespoke line. UV purifiers are particularly beneficial for large refrigerators or persistent odor issues.
Newspaper and Charcoal: A Deep Cleaning Duo
For a budget-friendly deep clean, use crumpled newspaper and charcoal. Fill the refrigerator with this combination, replacing the newspaper daily for a week. This unconventional method effectively tackles stubborn odors.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Odor Eliminator
While the toilet paper fridge hack might offer a temporary fix, more effective and practical solutions exist. From baking soda to UV light purifiers, choose the method that best suits your needs and preferences to keep your refrigerator fresh and odor-free. Consider factors like effectiveness, longevity, cost, and convenience when making your decision.