Tips&TricksThe hidden weapon against fridge odors and stubborn stains

The hidden weapon against fridge odors and stubborn stains

Chalk in the fridge.
Chalk in the fridge.
Images source: © Brilliant

3 February 2024 12:58, updated: 7 March 2024 09:25

Historically, chalk has been used to write on educational boards and for pavement art. While these still remain its primary uses, chalk can also surprisingly solve the issue of foul smells in your refrigerator. A mere piece can effectively eliminate this problem permanently.

How to use chalk for removing bad odors in your refrigerator

Opening your refrigerator to be greeted by an unpleasant smell is experiences many of us have had. The instinctual reaction is to quickly close the door and contemplate never opening it again. But the presence of these smells doesn't necessarily mean that you've neglected cleaning your refrigerator. They can be a result of different food odors, particularly from food that isn't properly sealed, intermingling.

Since it's not ideal to keep a freshener inside the fridge, another method that can absorb bad odors is required. This is where chalk - with its hygroscopic properties - comes into play. While chalk is well-known for absorbing moisture, it is also effective in eliminating strong odors. The chalk has to be a whole piece and can be placed on any shelf in the refrigerator. It should ideally be placed on a paper towel or a small plate. Make sure to replace it every few days or when it starts to soften or change color.

How to leverage chalk for everyday cleaning

Chalk can prove beneficial in various everyday situations due to its ability to absorb water efficiently. For instance, if fats have seeped into fabrics, chalk can help eliminate the stain without causing any damage to the material.

If you have a greasy stain on a tablecloth, simply rub the mark with powdered chalk and leave it for a few minutes. Then, lightly scrub the affected area with a stiff brush. The powdered chalk will absorb and help remove the grease from the fabric. After repeating this process a few times, rub some dish soap on the stain before washing the item normally. You'll find that chalk can effectively work as a DIY stain remover. This method is much more environmentally friendly in comparison to using chemically-loaded, store-bought products. It can be used on a variety of surfaces, from tackling unpleasant odors in your fridge to eradicating grease stains.

Related content