Not just washing it, this is how to keep the jar smelling fresh when stored for a long time

How to store jars/photo illustration: Gemini AI

Brilio.net – Jars are kitchen utensils that are very multifunctional, especially for maintaining the quality of food so that it remains crispy and lasts a long time. On the market, we can find various types of jars, ranging from plastic to glass, which are used according to daily needs.

However, challenges arise when the jars are not in use. If the storage process is careless, the inside of the jar often becomes damp, changes color, and even produces a strong musty aroma. In extreme conditions, mold can grow between the jar lids.

To avoid this, the cleanliness and dryness of the jar before storing is the main key. A TikTok user with the account name Ayu shares her personal secrets for caring for her jar collection.

“how I store used cookie jars,” wrote TikTok @ayuasmoro972 quoted BrilioFoodFriday (27/2/2026).

Steps to Store Jars Correctly

The method Ayu uses is very pocket friendly because it uses clean and dry waste paper. Following are the stages:

1. Total Cleaning: Make sure all jars have been washed thoroughly and are completely dry. Residual water trapped between the jars is the main cause of dampness.

2. Preparing Paper: Take waste paper (make sure it is not dirty or wet). Squeeze or clench the paper until it forms a circle.

photo: TikTok/@ayuasmoro972

3. Inserting the Paper Fist: Place one or more paper balls into the jar. The amount of paper can be adjusted according to the size of the jar.

4. Close Meeting: Seal the jar with the lid tightly, then store it in a cool kitchen cupboard or drawer and not exposed to direct sunlight.

photo: TikTok/@ayuasmoro972

Why is Paper So Effective?

Paper has natural properties as an absorber of moisture and food residue odors that may still remain in the surface of the jar’s pores. Interestingly, the ink on printed paper or newspapers also has an additional role.

Reporting from blog.suvie.com, the ink on paper apparently has the ability to help neutralize unpleasant odors. That is the reason why paper is often used to remove odors from other items such as shoes, and this method has proven to be very effective when applied to food storage containers.

FAQ Repel Jar Odors

1. Does the type of paper used have to be newsprint?

Do not have to. Used HVS paper or clean book paper can also be used. However, newsprint is often considered more effective because the type of fiber and ink are more effective at absorbing strong odors.

2. Does the paper need to be replaced periodically when the jar is stored?

If the jar is stored for a very long time (months) in a slightly damp place, you should check the condition of the paper periodically. However, for standard storage, one laying of paper is enough until the jar is used again.

3. Is this trick safe for plastic jars?

Very safe. In fact, plastic jars are more likely to absorb food odors than glass, so using paper is highly recommended to keep the plastic aroma neutral.

4. Will the smell of ink on the paper not stick to the jar?

Usually the aroma of ink will not leave a permanent impression. Before the jar is reused for storing food, it is highly recommended to rinse it once again with clean water and dry it.

5. Apart from paper, what other natural materials can absorb the odors in the jar?

Some other natural alternatives are a pinch of ground coffee (wrapped in a thin cloth) or a small amount of activated charcoal, both of which are known to be very strong natural odor absorbers.

(brl/tin)