Chicago, Illinois – Open refrigerators from downtown Chicago condos to suburban homes in Indianapolis this spring, and you may find something unexpected sitting beside the leftovers: a roll of toilet paper.
The household trend has quietly gained traction across Illinois and Indiana as spring temperature swings and rising humidity levels create more condensation inside refrigerators. Supporters say placing a fresh, unscented roll inside the fridge helps absorb excess moisture and reduce stubborn food odors, especially in older homes common in Chicago, Fort Wayne and Springfield.
The idea is rooted in basic material science. Toilet paper is made from cellulose fibers designed to absorb liquid efficiently. Inside a refrigerator, those fibers can draw in condensation caused by frequent door openings and sharp temperature fluctuations — common during Midwest spring mornings that start chilly and end mild.
Food safety experts caution that the method offers only temporary benefits. Once the roll becomes damp, it can trap bacteria rather than prevent it. Specialists recommend replacing it regularly and keeping it away from uncovered food. Scented or dyed varieties should not be stored near groceries.
Long-term odor control methods such as baking soda, activated charcoal and routine refrigerator cleaning remain more effective, particularly during damp stretches across the Ohio River Valley and southern Lake Michigan region.
For households from Chicagoland to central Indiana, the toilet paper trick may provide a short-term freshness boost this spring, but consistent cleaning and proper food storage remain the most reliable solution.
