The internet has become an endless source of useful tips, tricks, and everyday wisdom that might once have been passed down only through families. Among the most interesting are simple household hacks that use ordinary items in unexpected ways. One unusual idea that has made the rounds online involves something almost everyone has at home: toilet paper. More specifically, some people claim that placing a roll of toilet paper inside the refrigerator can help keep it fresher.

If your refrigerator sometimes develops a musty smell, especially after you’ve been away for a few days, the problem may not always be a particular food. Spills, excess moisture, and lingering odors can build up inside the fridge and create an unpleasant smell. That’s why the toilet-paper trick has attracted attention. Toilet paper is highly absorbent, so proponents of the hack suggest that a roll can help absorb some of the moisture and odor-causing particles inside the refrigerator.

The idea is certainly inexpensive and simple, but it shouldn’t replace proper refrigerator cleaning. A thorough cleaning, checking for spoiled food, wiping up spills, and keeping food properly sealed are much more reliable ways to control odors. A roll of toilet paper may absorb some moisture, but there’s limited evidence that it can meaningfully eliminate refrigerator odors compared with products specifically designed for that purpose.

Still, the hack is interesting because it shows how ordinary household items can sometimes have unexpected uses. If you’ve ever opened your refrigerator and been greeted by a strange smell, you might understand why people are willing to try simple solutions. Just remember that if an odor persists, the best approach is to find its source and clean the refrigerator thoroughly rather than relying on a roll of toilet paper alone.