For many, your refrigerator becomes a tomb for forgotten leftovers, expiring condiments and spoiled produce. And for those on the go, you don’t have time to sift through a messy fridge when it’s time to eat. The good news is that instilling a few simple habits can keep your fridge organized and your food fresh.
Here are a few simple and inexpensive ways to take your refrigerator organization to a new level:
Clear it Out
First thing’s first–take everything out, throw away all expired foods and ditch any leftovers that are older than five days. You can’t start organizing if you don’t know what you’re working with!Wipe it Down
Once your fridge is emptied, take the time to wipe it down with disinfectant wipes or soap and water. Wiping surfaces clean in your refrigerator will remove any stains, stickiness and bacteria, which can also help eliminate lingering odors.Prep Shelves
Be proactive and expect that spills will happen. Since the inside of your fridge is already cleared out and wiped down, consider lining the bottoms of shelves and drawers with cling wrap or paper towels. If a spill happens, you can easily dispose of it and replace it for an easy cleanup.Organize it
Magazine holders, small storage bins and detachable shelving work great for extra spacing in your fridge and are especially useful for foods that come in strangely-shaped packages .This tip is great for those living in small apartments, as these spaces are typically equipped with smaller than normal refrigerators.Add Labels
Labels give everything a home in your fridge and allocates a certain amount of space for items. Shelves and drawers can be labeled with names like: condiments, dairy, fruit, vegetables and snacks. Mix and match labels and spaces to find the best fit for you!Group Like Items
You should never store fruits, vegetables and meat in the same place. We often throw these items together in a drawer, but this can actually lead to them spoiling faster! Designating separate areas in your fridge for different items will help your food stay fresher, longer.Rotate and Repeat
Moving any items that are about to expire to the front of the fridge will allow you to see what you have in stock at a glance. Try taking a quick picture on the way out the door so you can reference it in the store later.
As you plan your next trip to the grocery store make it a habit to check the fridge beforehand to determine what you need to buy and what you already have on hand. Use this simple checklist to get started! Follow these simple and inexpensive tips, and your refrigerator is sure to stay clean and organized.
