The Paper Towel Method That Keeps Bread Fresh for Days Longer

Bread goes stale or moldy faster than almost any other food. This bakery secret uses a simple paper towel to absorb excess moisture that causes both problems, extending freshness by several days.

What You Need

• One paper towel
• Your bread bag, box, or container
• Fresh bread (works with any type)

The Simple Method

1 Choose the Right Paper Towel

Use a single sheet of regular paper towel—not the thick, ultra-absorbent kind. Regular paper towels provide the right balance of moisture absorption without over-drying.

2 Place in Bread Storage

For bagged bread: Slide the paper towel into the bag alongside the bread.

For bread boxes: Place the paper towel on the bottom of the box before adding bread.

For containers: Put the paper towel on one side of the container.

3 Seal as Normal

Close the bread bag with its original tie or clip. The paper towel works best in a closed environment where it can control moisture levels.

Why This Works

Moisture control: Paper towel absorbs excess humidity that promotes mold growth and makes bread soggy.

Air circulation: The towel creates slight air gaps that prevent condensation from building up.

Prevents staleness: By controlling moisture, bread maintains its texture longer.

Mold prevention: Mold needs moisture to grow—reducing humidity significantly slows mold development.

Expected Results

Without paper towel: Most bread starts going stale in 2-3 days, develops mold in 5-7 days

With paper towel: Bread stays fresh 5-7 days, mold development delayed by 3-5 days

In humid climates: Results are even more dramatic—paper towel can double bread's lifespan

When to Replace the Paper Towel

Replace weekly: Even if the towel doesn't look wet, replace it every 7 days for best results.

Replace if damp: If the paper towel feels moist, change it immediately.

Replace with new bread: Start fresh with each new loaf for maximum effectiveness.

Works With All Bread Types

Sliced bread: Perfect for sandwich loaves—keeps end pieces from drying out

Artisan breads: Helps crusty breads maintain texture without getting soggy

Bagels: Prevents them from getting hard or developing mold

Rolls: Keeps dinner rolls soft and fresh longer

Tortillas: Prevents them from drying out or getting moldy

Additional Bread Storage Tips

Store in cool, dry place: Avoid areas near stoves, dishwashers, or sunny windows.

Don't refrigerate most breads: Cold temperatures actually make bread go stale faster.

Keep bags sealed: Exposure to air accelerates both staleness and mold growth.

Use clean hands: Always handle bread with clean hands to prevent introducing bacteria.

Signs Your Method Is Working

Bread feels springy: Fresh bread bounces back when gently pressed

No condensation: You shouldn't see water droplets inside the bag

Even texture: No soggy spots or overly dry areas

No musty smell: Fresh bread has a clean, yeasty aroma

Troubleshooting

If bread still gets moldy quickly: Your kitchen may be too humid—try storing bread in a different location.

If bread dries out: The paper towel might be too absorbent—try a thinner towel or replace it less frequently.

If method doesn't work: The bread may have been stale when purchased—this method works best with fresh bread.

Money-Saving Benefits

This simple trick helps you:

• Reduce bread waste from spoilage
• Buy bread in larger quantities when on sale
• Avoid frequent grocery trips for fresh bread
• Get full value from artisan breads that cost more

Most families throw away 1-2 loaves of bread monthly due to spoilage. This method typically eliminates most of that waste.

Share this article:

React to this article: