The smell from the refrigerator or the crate of the kitchen waste, usually caused by food remains, is not always pleasant. However, the remains of this very common food, often discarded as waste, can be a surprising and effective solution to neutralize these unwanted odors. Find out now what it is.
According to a scientific study published in Catalysts magazine in (2021), eggshells are composed of 90-95% porous calcium carbonate and showed capacity to adsorb malcheinous gases such as hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), especially when crushed in fine particles.
Use of bark in the refrigerator
A method released by the Thai Portal Sanook, quoted by, recommends the placement of crushed and dried eggshells in an open container inside the fridge, exchanging the content every two or three weeks to absorb the smell.
Application of bark in the garbage bucket
The same Thai portal also suggests spreading the ground shells at the bottom of the garbage bucket before placing a new bag, repeating the process with each replacement of the bag.
Mandatory hygiene before reuse
Before reusing eggshells for any domestic purpose, it is essential to ensure correct hygiene.
The United States Disease Control and Prevention Center (CDC) warns that shells may be contaminated with Salmonella and other microorganisms, and it is essential to wash them carefully and completely dry them to the sun to avoid health risks or the development of additional odors.
Environmental sustainability and circular economy
The reuse of eggshells fits a circular economy principle, according to the study referred to above, representing a sustainable form of domestic waste reuse that would normally go to landfill.
Although the individual environmental impact is modest, the reuse of bark contributes to avoid waste and reduce the use of conventional mineral adsorbents.
Proven alternatives to eliminate the smell
There are widely recognized and documented natural methods to eliminate domestic odors, such as sodium bicarbonate, activated charcoal and coffee strokes.
According to Better Homes & Gardens magazine, these options are effective and often recommended by cleaning experts, being more reliable and better studied alternatives than eggshells.
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