Orlando, Florida – Open refrigerators from Miami high-rises to suburban kitchens in Jacksonville this spring, and you might notice something unusual sitting beside the orange juice: a roll of toilet paper.
The household trend has picked up attention across Florida as heat and humidity climb early in the season. Supporters say placing a fresh, unscented roll inside the fridge helps absorb excess moisture and cut down on lingering food odors — a common issue in a state where indoor air can feel damp year-round.
The idea is rooted in simple material science. Toilet paper is made from cellulose fibers engineered to absorb liquid efficiently. Inside a refrigerator, those fibers can pull in condensation caused by frequent door openings and sharp temperature swings, especially during Florida’s warm afternoons and cooler overnight hours.
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 never be used near groceries.
Longer-term odor control methods such as baking soda, activated charcoal and routine refrigerator cleaning remain more effective, particularly in coastal communities where humidity stays elevated.
For households from the Panhandle to the Keys, the toilet paper trick may offer a short-term freshness boost this spring, but consistent cleaning and proper food storage remain the most reliable solution.
