The chefs' secret: why you should put a dry sponge in the vegetable drawer

If you have recently seen viral videos on social media where people place a clean, dry sponge in the refrigerator's vegetable drawer, you are surely asking yourself why.

This simple trend has become one of the most talked-about tips on TikTok and Instagram. Beyond the initial curiosity, it is a practical and effective solution that can change the way you store food.

Humidity control: the secret behind the tip

The biggest problem in refrigerator vegetable drawers is the accumulation of humidity. While cooling is essential for maintaining freshness, excess humidity creates an ideal environment for the growth of mold, bacteria, and rapid decay.

A dry sponge acts as a natural moisture absorber. It captures excess water from the air before it has a chance to settle on the surface of your produce, resulting in a more balanced and drier storage environment.

Extending shelf life

Excess humidity causes leafy greens to become slimy, berries to soften quickly, and root vegetables to lose their crunch. By using a sponge to absorb unnecessary moisture from the air, sensitive items like spinach, cucumbers, peppers, and carrots remain crisp and fresh for days longer, significantly reducing food waste at home.

Place one or two sponges in the corners or on the sides of the vegetable drawer. Ensure the sponge is completely clean and dry at the start (do not wet it beforehand). Do not place the sponge directly on the food; keep a small gap so it can collect humidity from the surrounding air.

Critical hygiene rules

Because the sponge absorbs moisture, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria if ignored. To maintain food safety:

1. Wash the sponge thoroughly every few days.

2. Allow it to dry completely before returning it to the refrigerator.

3. Replace the sponge entirely every few weeks, or immediately if an unfamiliar odor arises.

Remember: the goal is to reduce bacteria and humidity, not to create a new source of contamination.

Additional benefits

Beyond keeping vegetables fresh, this trick offers two extra bonuses:

• Odor neutralization: excess humidity often carries the smells of food that has begun to spoil. The sponge helps mitigate this and maintains a more neutral scent.

• Easier maintenance: less moisture in the drawers means less dirt, fewer mold stains, and less need for frequent, thorough cleanings.

The sponge is not a magic solution; it works best alongside maintaining the correct temperature (around 3–5 degrees) and avoiding overcrowding. But as a small, cheap, and simple trick, it is a quiet habit that saves money and keeps your refrigerator cleaner.