Having a well-organised fridge is not only pleasing to the eye, but also reduces food waste and makes everyday life easier. By planning and organising your fridge, you can more easily keep track of what's at home, avoid forgotten best-before dates and plan meals more efficiently. Here are some simple and effective tips to organise your fridge and reduce food waste.
Why should you organise your fridge?
Keeping your fridge tidy gives it an inviting feel and can inspire you to cook. It also makes it easier to plan meals and reduces everyday stress. Most importantly, however, is the sustainability aspect. A well-organised fridge provides a clear overview of expiry dates, allowing you to use food before it goes bad, and reduce unnecessary consumption.
7 tips for organising your fridge
Follow these steps to organise your fridge efficiently and reduce food waste:
Step 1: Start with a thorough cleansing
- Detail 1: Empty the fridge completely and place all food items on one surface.
- Detail 2: Go through the goods and throw away what has expired. Give away edible food that you don't need.
Step 2: Clean the fridge properly
- Detail 1: Take out the shelves and drawers and clean them with hot water and washing-up liquid.
- Detail 2: Wipe all surfaces before putting them back.
Step 3: Plan the placement of food items
- Detail 1: Place raw meat and dairy products in the coldest part at the bottom.
- Detail 2: Store fruit and vegetables in the centre and drinks in the door.
Step 4: Use transparent containers
- Detail 1: Store different types of food in labelled containers.
- Detail 2: Make sure the containers are transparent for better visibility.
Step 5: Maximise space with smart storage
- Detail 1: Use spinning trays and stackable boxes to optimise space.
- Detail 2: Use reusable bags to keep vegetables fresh for longer.
Step 6: Some goods do not need to be in the fridge
- Detail 1: Store tomatoes, avocados, onions and potatoes outside the fridge.
- Detail 2: Create more space in your fridge by storing these items in bowls or the pantry.
Step 7: Maintain order over time
- Detail 1: Clean out the fridge regularly and put new food in the right place.
- Detail 2: Follow rules and use storage solutions to maintain order.
Tips and advice
Follow these tips to achieve the best results:
- Tips 1: Place items that need to be used soon at eye level.
- Tip 2: Label the containers clearly to avoid confusion.
A well-organised fridge makes it easier to see what's at home and reduce food waste. A tidy home is not only about the inside of the fridge, common areas such as stairwells should also be kept tidy, and regular staircase cleaning makes your whole house feel as well cared for as your fridge.
Frequently asked questions
How can I prevent food waste in the fridge?
Use transparent containers and place food items that need to be used soon at eye level.
Which foods should not be kept in the fridge?
Tomatoes, avocados, onions and potatoes thrive better outside the fridge. Store them in bowls on the kitchen counter or in the pantry.
How often should I clean the fridge?
Clean out the fridge at least once a month to keep things tidy and avoid food going stale.
Organise by season
For holidays such as Christmas and Midsummer, reserve a whole shelf for specific festive foods.
