Getting Started
Having an organized fridge not only makes you feel great every time you open the door, but it saves time when you're trying to get a meal put together. And while it can seem like a daunting task, just follow these easy steps and you'll have the job done in no time.
Step 1: Clean Out and Discard
The first step in organizing your fridge and freezer is to take inventory and discard out-of-date items or items you will not likely use. Be sure to put perishable items in a cooler while you work.
Quick Tip: Be sure to wipe down shelves and drawers with a multi-purpose cleaner.
Step 2: Adjust Your Shelves
Take advantage of adjustable shelves and drawers, found in most new appliances. Since many shoppers like to buy the same brands (with the same packaging) over and over again, taking time to set your shelves and drawers accordingly will save you time in the long run.
Quick Tip: Store the same things in the same place from week to week.
Step 3: Line Your Drawers and Shelves
Using a heavy-duty, water-resistant shelf liner in your crisper drawers makes cleanup a lot easier when fruit or vegetables inevitably go soft. The same is true for your shelves. While you don't have to use a liner, it can be helpful in preventing spills and drips from making everything sticky.
Step 4: Group Like Items Together
Put things like condiments, salad dressings and sandwich fixings together in labeled bins. Consider choosing organization bins and containers with handles to make these items easy to grab out of the refrigerator and take to a prep area.
Step 5: Keep Snacks Front and Center
Keep the most often used items in front for easy access the whole family will appreciate. You may also find that ready-made snacks in easy-to-open containers are helpful to curb your cravings -- fresh fruit or veggies that are pre-washed and ready to eat will suddenly seem more enticing!
Step 6: Stack to Save Space
If you like to store water bottles, soda cans or beer cans in the refrigerator, consider a bottle or can dispenser. These allow you to stack bottles or cans in a small space, while providing easy access to a cold beverage.
Step 7: Keep It Fresh
There are lots of ways beyond a box of baking soda to combat odors. Vanilla extract will also keep your fridge fresh. Soak a cotton ball or paper towel, put it on a paper plate and wait for it to dry before removing. Or use a fridge deodorizer.
To help keep your fruits, vegetables and herbs fresher longer, consider specially designed Produce and Herb Keepers. These containers work in three ways to keep foods fresh.
