If you often fill every inch of your refrigerator after going to the grocery store, you probably need to know how to organize your refrigerator. Not only will things be easier to find, but storing foods in the right temperature zones will make foods last longer.
It’s always frustrating when your favorite food (which you’ve been looking forward to eating!) spoils quickly. Or you forgot expired foods in the back of the fridge.
Knowing how to properly organize your fridge means less food is wasted, which saves you money in the long run. So before you get rid of any spoiled food, follow these five tips to organize your fridge and make food last longer.
If you want a bigger refrigerator or an upgrade, check out best refrigerators before you buy. While you’re organizing, this is it 3 reasons why you shouldn’t fill your freezer too much.
How to organize the refrigerator
1. Store leftovers of food and drinks on the upper shelves
This area is best for storing ready-to-eat foods that have a shorter shelf life. These include yogurt, cheese, cold meats, and any leftover meals. Keep any refrigerated jars, spices, and drinks open on the top shelves.
2. Keep the raw ingredients on the bottom shelf
This is the coolest part of the fridge, so it’s the best place to store raw ingredients for cooking. These include packaged raw meat, fish, dairy products, and other perishable items. Always make sure that raw meat/foods are tightly wrapped with plastic film, or in an airtight container to avoid bacteria.
3. Avoid mixing vegetables and fruits in the vegetable drawer
The crisp drawer in your refrigerator is the perfect place for fresh produce. However, avoid placing fruits and vegetables next to each other. This is because the ethylene in the fruit can spoil the vegetable quickly. So, if your refrigerator doesn’t have two crisper drawers, separate your fruits and vegetables. Make sure the leafy greens are well wrapped or in a sealed plastic bag to preserve their freshness.
4. Do not store milk or eggs in the door
The refrigerator door is the warmest part of the refrigerator, so only spices should be stored here. While most of us store milk or eggs in the door, it is recommended to put them on the bottom shelf, as this is the coldest part of the refrigerator. Other items such as sauces, butter, and less perishable groceries are suitable for door storage.
5. Use transparent food storage containers
Organize and group ingredients or meals into clear storage containers like the 32-Piece Food Storage Container Set ($29, Amazon (Opens in a new tab)Not only will this keep it fresher for longer, but you can immediately see exactly what you need to eat. If you want to go further, label each container by type of food or expiration date.
Other tips on how to make food last longer
- Always keep the temperature between 32°F (0°C) and 41°F (5°C)
- Do not leave the refrigerator door open
- Never leave frozen food on the counter, and return it as soon as possible
- If you have a full refrigerator, always lower the temperature to prevent ice formation
- Avoid cramming things in the refrigerator to allow air to circulate and maintain a constant temperature
- Eat leftover meals within two days to avoid contamination
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