Since summer 2026, Spanish media have increasingly discussed a household trick: placing an unused roll Toilet paper in the Fridge in the fridge to reduce moisture and odours. Outlets such as Idealista, El Español and Xataka explained the idea behind it and tested its practical effects in articles published up to the end of September. The news hook is the widespread circulation of the tip in Spain; there is no official recommendation.
The mechanism is simple: dry cellulose fibres absorb water vapour and can temporarily reduce odours. In practice, this offers brief relief in overly damp interiors, for example after a container has leaked. However, expert articles consistently emphasise its limitations. The paper’s absorbency quickly diminishes once the roll becomes damp. At that point, it can itself harbour germs and intensify odours. The paper must also not come into direct contact with food and should be placed only in a dry, stable spot.
Consumer advice and hygiene guidance therefore recommend a clear priority: first identify and eliminate the causes by discarding spoiled goods, sealing leaking packaging, cleaning shelves and seals, and checking the temperature. Only then should absorbent aids such as toilet paper, bicarbonate of soda or coffee grounds be used as a supplement. Official food safety bodies such as FoodSafety.gov, with USDA and the FSIS generally recommend the four-step practice of cleaning, separating, cooking and chilling. This includes regularly and thoroughly cleaning the appliance to prevent contamination. These principles align with the assessment in Spanish advice articles, which present the trick as a short-term aid, not a lasting solution.
For use: replace the roll regularly, label it clearly and keep it away from uncovered food. If dampness persists or odours recur, experts point to technical causes, such as faulty drains or worn door seals, which should be serviced or replaced.
The toilet-paper-in-the-fridge trick, widely used in Spain, can temporarily reduce moisture and odours. However, it is no substitute for basic cleaning or fixing technical faults. The available expert guidance does not support marketing it as a general, long-term solution; reliable recommendations from official food authorities instead prioritise hygiene and maintenance.
Editor: Mira Cadena (Article created with AI assistance).