Raleigh, North Carolina – Open refrigerators from Charlotte suburbs to coastal homes in Wilmington this spring, and you might notice something unexpected sitting next to the leftovers: a roll of toilet paper.
The household hack has been gaining traction across North Carolina as warmer temperatures and rising humidity create more moisture inside refrigerators. Supporters say placing a fresh, unscented roll inside the fridge helps absorb excess condensation and reduce lingering food odors, especially in older homes common in Raleigh, Greensboro and Durham.
The concept is rooted in basic 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 spring temperature swings — common during North Carolina’s cool mornings and humid afternoons.
Food safety experts caution that the method offers only short-term 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 used near groceries.
Longer-lasting odor control solutions such as baking soda, activated charcoal and routine refrigerator cleaning remain more effective, particularly in coastal and Piedmont communities where humidity climbs quickly this time of year.
For households from the Outer Banks to the Blue Ridge foothills, the toilet paper trick may offer a temporary freshness boost this spring, but consistent cleaning and proper food storage remain the most reliable solution.
