It sounds like a weird internet trick—but this one actually has a practical purpose (and yes, it can save you money). Here’s what putting a paper towel in your refrigerator really does 👇
🧻 Why Put a Paper Towel in the Fridge?
1. It Absorbs Excess Moisture
- Refrigerators trap humidity.
- Extra moisture makes the fridge work harder to maintain temperature.
- A paper towel absorbs that moisture, reducing strain on the motor.
➡️ Less strain = lower energy use over time.
2. Keeps Food Fresher Longer
- Moisture causes fruits and veggies to spoil faster.
- Paper towels reduce condensation, slowing mold and rot.
➡️ Less food waste = indirect savings on groceries.
3. Helps Temperature Stay Stable
- Less moisture means less frequent cooling cycles.
- Your fridge doesn’t need to kick on as often.
➡️ Small change, quiet energy savings you won’t notice day to day.
✅ How to Do It Correctly
- Fold 1–2 paper towels.
- Place them:
- In the vegetable crisper drawer, or
- On a shelf near high-moisture foods.
- Replace every 5–7 days or when damp.
💡 Extra Fridge-Saving Tips (Bigger Impact)
- Don’t overload the fridge—but don’t leave it empty either.
- Let hot food cool before refrigerating.
- Keep door seals clean and tight.
- Set fridge temp to 37–40°F (3–4°C).
⚠️ Reality Check
This trick won’t slash your electric bill overnight—but over months, reduced compressor strain + less food waste adds up.
If you want, I can also share 5 other silent fridge tricks that save energy without changing your routine at all.