Your Fridge's Produce Drawers Are Begging For Paper Towels, Here's Why

When you keep fruits and vegetables in your fridge, you might think that putting them in the crisper drawer is enough to keep them fresh. Although these drawers provide a controlled environment with humidity settings that you can adjust, placing paper towels inside them can improve their effectiveness. It may surprise you, but the ordinary sheets you use to clean up messes and wipe surfaces can significantly extend the lifespan of your produce.

Produce drawers are designed to provide a suitable environment for fruits and vegetables that need higher humidity, such as leafy greens, broccoli, and berries. However, excess moisture can cause condensation to build up, leading to faster spoilage and mold growth. By lining the drawers with paper towels, you create a barrier that absorbs moisture while maintaining the desired humidity for your produce. This simple trick helps strike the right balance, keeping your fruits and vegetables fresh for longer.

To achieve the best results, choose a brand that is durable and highly absorbent when using this paper towel hack. Thicker towels tend to have a longer lifespan in your produce drawers. As an alternative to paper towels, you can use butcher paper. If you prefer a more environmentally-friendly approach, you can opt for a reusable, absorbent cloth like a clean flour sack towel.

It's a good idea to check the towels regularly and replace them as needed or when they become saturated with moisture. Avoid placing wet fruits and veggies directly onto the paper towels, as this will cause them to become soggy and ineffective. Instead, dry produce with a clean cloth or paper towel before storing them in the fridge. Paper towels are handy for leafy greens and vegetables, but you can also use them for juicy fruits like berries or peaches. You can enjoy fresh produce longer with a bit of care and attention.