Activated charcoal lasts up to three times longer than a box of baking soda at absorbing fridge odors, and it also reduces moisture and humidity, which helps cut down on mold and mildew and keeps food fresh longer.
Three Hints for a Fresher, More Organized Fridge

A few small changes can turn a cramped, smelly fridge into a real money, time, and health saver.
Banish Odors and Mold With Activated Charcoal
Find More Bottle Space With a Wine Rack
Bottles standing upright waste a lot of shelf space above them; repurposing an old wine rack to store them horizontally instead reclaims that space.
Make Spill-Proof Shelves With Place Mats
Vinyl or plastic place mats, cut to fit and laid on fridge shelves, work just like pricier purpose-made fridge liners for a fraction of the cost, and a lighter color keeps the fridge light reaching the lower shelves.
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This edition is part of the Genius House Hacks archive: 20+ years of tips, rebuilt from the original Handy Hints newsletter. Browse more hacks →