Why You Should Never Burn a Toilet Paper Roll in the Bathroom

Some claim that burning a toilet paper roll can eliminate bathroom odors, similar to lighting a match. While the idea may seem simple, this method is ineffective, hazardous, and completely unnecessary.

Before you consider setting a toilet paper roll on fire, let’s explore why this practice is dangerous—and what you can do instead to keep your bathroom smelling fresh.

Why Do People Burn Toilet Paper Rolls?

The belief behind this trick is that burning paper produces smoke that neutralizes bad smells. Some also think the ashes absorb moisture and bacteria, reducing odors.

In reality, there’s no scientific proof that burning paper eliminates odors effectively. The risks of fire, toxic fumes, and smoke stains far outweigh any supposed benefits.

Why Burning Toilet Paper Rolls is a Bad Idea

1. Fire Hazard

Bathrooms are full of flammable materials—towels, tissue, toilet paper, and cleaning products. A small flame can quickly turn into a dangerous fire, especially in enclosed spaces.

2. Toxic Fumes

Toilet paper often contains dyes, fragrances, and chemicals. When burned, these substances release harmful toxins into the air, which can cause respiratory irritation, headaches, and indoor air pollution.

3. Smoke Stains

Burning paper in a small space leads to soot buildup on walls, tiles, and ceilings. Over time, these stains are difficult to remove, making the bathroom look dirty and unkempt.

4. It Doesn’t Actually Remove Odors

At best, burning a toilet paper roll temporarily masks odors—it doesn’t eliminate them. The best way to keep a bathroom fresh is to target the source of the smell, not just cover it up.

Safer and More Effective Ways to Eliminate Bathroom Odors

Instead of setting fire to your bathroom, try these proven odor-fighting solutions that work without the risk of fire or toxic fumes.

1. Improve Ventilation

Letting fresh air in is the easiest and most effective way to remove odors.

✔ Open a window or use an exhaust fan to clear out bad smells.
✔ Keep the bathroom door open after use to prevent trapped odors.

2. Use Baking Soda

Baking soda is a natural deodorizer that absorbs bad smells instead of masking them.

✔ Place a small bowl of baking soda on the bathroom counter or behind the toilet.
✔ Sprinkle baking soda into the toilet bowl before flushing to neutralize odors.

3. Try Essential Oils

Essential oils provide long-lasting freshness without artificial chemicals.

✔ Add a few drops of lemon, tea tree, lavender, or peppermint oil to a diffuser.
✔ Place cotton balls soaked in essential oil inside the trash can or behind the toilet.

4. Use a DIY Air Freshener Spray

Make a natural air freshener using ingredients you already have at home.

✔ Mix:

• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons rubbing alcohol
• 10 drops of your favorite essential oil
  ✔ Shake well and spray around the bathroom to keep it smelling fresh.

5. Light a Match or Candle (Safely!)

If you like the idea of burning something to remove odors, use a match or candle instead.

✔ Matches: The sulfur in matches neutralizes odors quickly.
✔ Candles: Scented candles provide a lasting fragrance and a cozy atmosphere.

⚠ Safety tip: Never leave candles unattended, and keep them away from towels and paper products.

6. Keep the Toilet Clean

A dirty toilet is one of the biggest sources of bathroom odors. Regular cleaning prevents smells from lingering.

✔ Quick Toilet Cleaning Hack:

• Pour ½ cup of vinegar and ½ cup of baking soda into the toilet bowl.
• Let sit for 10 minutes, scrub with a toilet brush, and flush.

7. Use Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal absorbs odors and moisture naturally, making it a great long-term solution.

✔ Place a small container of activated charcoal near the sink or toilet.
✔ Replace every 2–3 months to maintain effectiveness.

8. Try White Vinegar for Stubborn Odors

Vinegar is a powerful natural deodorizer that eliminates smells at their source.

✔ Fill a small bowl with white vinegar and leave it in the bathroom overnight.
✔ The vinegar smell will fade, taking bad odors with it.

Final Verdict: Ditch the Toilet Paper Trick

Burning a toilet paper roll won’t solve your bathroom odor problem—and it could create serious safety hazards.

Instead, try these safer, proven solutions:
✔ Improve ventilation (open a window or use a fan).
✔ Use baking soda or activated charcoal to absorb odors.
✔ Make a DIY air freshener spray with essential oils.
✔ Light a match or candle (safely).
✔ Keep your toilet and bathroom clean and dry.

By making small habit changes, you can eliminate bathroom odors safely and effectively—without the risk of fire, toxic fumes, or smoke stains.