Fridge & Freezer Organization Made Easy
Maintaining an organized fridge and freezer has several benefits. First, it helps make meal prep much less stressful when you can find all your condiments and ingredients easily. Smart fridge storage also helps you save money when grocery shopping—otherwise, you might end up buying food you already have. Plus, it helps prevent perishables from becoming old and stinky.
Such a kitchen storage makeover can be a big task, but we've put together a list of refrigerator organization tips to help you get organized.
Make Adjustments for Maximum Freshness
- First, take advantage of any adjustable shelves and drawers by rearranging the interior to suit your needs. Seems simple enough, but it's easy to forget that most fridges allow for a small amount of customization.
- Keep fruits and greens at their peak with clever solutions like our BluApple Produce Fresh Guard and OXO greensaver Crisper Inserts. These ingenious tools combat ethylene gas ane extend shelf life, therefore minimizing food waste. Then you can invest in fresh produce, knowing it will stay delicious until you're ready to use it.
Accessibility is Key
- Place frequently used items within easy reach for the whole family. Pre-washed and ready-to-eat fruits and veggies in plastic bins become irresistible temptations when prominently displayed.
- If possible, utilize the deep shelf for leftover storage. Stackable storage containers help maximize this space, but don't forget to label them for quick identification.
Organize by Size and Space
- Group items within your fridge and freezer by size. This creates designated zones for each item, preventing the frustrating hunt for elusive ingredients. Create a dedicated space for your weekly staples. Store jam jars and salad dressing bottles in the door, and utilize the freezer door for bagged items to maximize every inch of valuable space.
- Embrace the vertical space between shelves by using stackable clear bins. These versatile solutions—some even have adjustable dividers—allow you to tailor the storage to your needs and easily identify what you have without rummaging through the depths.
- Conquer those awkward nooks and small spaces with smart food storage tools like our egg holders, soda can dispensers, and lazy susans. These space-saving wonders let you store more while keeping things neat and tidy.
- When it comes to your crisper drawers, adding a few drawer organizers work wonders in keeping different types of veggies separated.
Bonus Tips
- Use clearly labeled plastic containers and storage bins eliminate guesswork and keep contents fresh longer.
- Rotate your stock regularly. Use the "first in, first out" method to prevent forgotten treasures lurking in the back.
- Clean your fridge regularly. Spills and crumbs happen, so wipe down shelves, drawers, and organization bins to maintain a clean and inviting space. (You may even want to cover certain surfaces with a fridge liner.) Check those expiration dates and perform a semi-regular fridge declutter to make sure it says smelling fresh.
- To Refrigerate, or Not to Refrigerate?: Not all of your produce should be stored in fridge bins. Items like garlic bulbs, avocados, uncut onions, and potatoes are best kept on the countertop, in your pantry, or inside a kitchen cabinet.
By implementing these simple kitchen organization ideas, you'll get transform your fridge and freezer into streamlined wonderlands of culinary convenience.
Shop all of The Container Store's fridge organization ideas here!