Health & Beauty
Mastering Fridge Organization: The Ultimate Guide
Gazing upon a meticulously arranged, harmoniously colored refrigerator is nothing short of captivating. It’s a sight where every pepper seems to have found its perfect perch. Yet, the allure of an organized fridge extends far beyond its visual appeal. In reality, a well-structured refrigerator can be a time and money-saving wonder. With a clear inventory of its contents, grocery shopping becomes a breeze, and meal preparation becomes an efficient endeavor, leading to less food waste and the elimination of unpleasant odors.
To embark on this journey of fridge transformation, the experts at the Good Housekeeping Test Kitchen advise beginning with the items you reach for most frequently. From there, systematically group similar items and house them within clear containers, a keyword being “clear” for that uniform and inviting appearance. Beyond this point, it’s all about personalization: Invest in various storage solutions to battle against rogue soda cans, overstuffed snack drawers, and that ever-expanding wine collection.
When it comes to shelving strategies, think about what makes the most sense for you and your groceries. For instance, while most people store milk on the top shelf or in the door, it should actually reside at the rear of the bottom shelf where the temperature is coldest. Likewise, eggs should find their place in their original cartons on the middle or top shelves for more consistent temperature control. As for the fridge door, it’s the ideal haven for condiments, butter, soft cheeses, and processed juices.
For households with young children, make life easier by keeping their favorite snacks at eye level, allowing them to grab them without causing a snack avalanche. You can either designate a special bin for each child or create a communal snack zone, promoting the spirit of sharing.
To maintain order, practice the art of rotation: When you introduce a new item, like a fresh gallon of milk, move the older ones to the forefront, ensuring they’re used before their expiration dates. Be vigilant, not just about odors, but also about leftovers. Dispose of fish after one to two days, meat after two to three days, and vegetables or grains after five to seven days.
Before you dive into the world of fridge organization, equip yourself with essential storage solutions and gadgets that will make the process a breeze.
