Keeping a refrigerator clean often feels like a losing battle. Spills appear without warning, produce drawers collect moisture, and shelves demand frequent wiping. A simple household item offers a surprisingly effective solution.
Placing paper towels inside the fridge has become a practical way to reduce mess, lower cleaning stress, and help fruits and vegetables last longer. This approach focuses on prevention rather than constant cleanup.
Paper towels placed inside refrigerator drawers and on shelves work quietly in the background. Their main role is absorbing excess moisture released from produce packaging, containers, and everyday food storage. Moisture often leads to soggy drawers, sticky shelves, and faster spoilage. Paper towels help limit that buildup before it becomes a problem.
Once installed, shelves stay cleaner for weeks. Drawers no longer need frequent scrubbing. When spills occur, the paper towel layer absorbs the mess, preventing it from spreading across plastic or glass surfaces.
How to Line the Fridge the Right Way
Freepik AI | Paper towels act as a moisture-absorbing barrier that keeps fridges clean and vegetables fresh.
The process remains straightforward and easy to maintain. Refrigerator shelves and drawers should be wiped clean first. After drying, paper towels are laid flat to fully cover the surface. Food items are then placed directly on top.
Although this step adds a few minutes at the start, it saves time later by reducing the need for deep cleaning sessions. The paper towels act as a protective barrier, making routine fridge maintenance much easier.
For those who prefer reusable options, Swedish dishcloths or washable kitchen rags are a good choice. These alternatives can be used in the same way and washed weekly. Slightly used paper towels that still have absorbency left can also be repurposed before composting.
What Changes After Using This Hack
Once shelves and drawers are lined, everyday fridge use feels more manageable. Small leaks or stains no longer trigger immediate cleaning. The mess stays contained, and the paper towel handles the hard work. When it becomes damp or sticky, it is simply removed and replaced.
In most refrigerators, paper towels need to be changed every three to four weeks. Timing may vary depending on humidity levels and the frequency of spills. Observing the condition of the towels helps determine the right replacement schedule.
This approach simplifies refrigerator care without adding new tools or extra steps. Paper towels manage excess moisture before it spreads, helping produce stay in better condition and keeping shelves free from residue.
Regular replacement reduces cleanup time and limits buildup that leads to frequent scrubbing. The outcome is a cleaner refrigerator that stays manageable with minimal effort.
