Most people think of paper towels as cleanup tools, not refrigerator helpers. But this simple household item can quietly transform the way your fridge works — keeping produce fresher, reducing waste, and even helping your appliance run a bit more efficiently. It sounds odd at first, but once you see the difference, you’ll never store your fruits and veggies the same way again.
When produce sits in the fridge, it naturally releases moisture. That moisture collects in drawers and bags, creating the damp environment that ruins greens, wilts herbs, and speeds up decay. A layer of paper towels absorbs that excess water, keeping the environment dry and extending the life of your fruits and vegetables by days — sometimes a full week. Less spoilage means fewer grocery trips, better-tasting meals, and real savings for your family.
To use the trick, simply line your produce drawers with a layer or two of paper towel, or place a sheet inside produce bags before sealing. Replace the towel whenever it becomes damp (usually once a week). You’ll notice your drawers stay cleaner, odors decrease, and your veggies stay crisp much longer.
While a paper towel alone won’t literally cut your electricity bill in half, it does help your fridge run more smoothly by reducing moisture buildup and helping you open the fridge less often, thanks to longer-lasting food. Paired with good habits like checking door seals and keeping shelves organized, this tiny hack supports better energy efficiency, a cleaner fridge, and fresher food — all for free.