How Much Stuff Should We Put In The Fridge For Best Results

The amount of stuff you should put in your fridge for best results depends on several factors, including the size and efficiency of your fridge, the types of items you’re storing, and your cooking and eating habits.

However, there are some general guidelines to help you optimize the performance of your refrigerator:

Don’t Overcrowd:

It’s important not to overfill your fridge, as this can obstruct airflow and make it harder for the appliance to maintain a consistent temperature. Overcrowding can also lead to uneven cooling, which can affect the freshness and safety of your food. Leave some space between items for air to circulate.

Allow for Proper Airflow:

Most modern fridges are designed with airflow in mind. There are strategically placed vents to ensure cool air circulates evenly. Be sure not to block these vents with food items or containers.

Use Shelves and Drawers Wisely:

The different shelves and drawers in your fridge are designed for specific types of food. For example, use the crisper drawers for fruits and vegetables, the meat drawer for meats, and the deli drawer for deli items. Follow these guidelines to ensure food stays fresh longer.

Keep Raw Meats Separate:

Raw meats should be stored on the lower shelves of your fridge to prevent any juices from dripping onto other foods and potentially causing contamination. Store them in airtight containers or on a plate to catch any drips.

Keep Dairy and Eggs on Shelves:

Dairy products like milk and cheese, as well as eggs, should be stored on the shelves, not in the door. The door is the warmest part of the fridge, and these items require consistent cold temperatures to stay fresh.

Use Clear Containers:

Transparent containers or storage bins can help you easily see what’s in your fridge and reduce the chance of items getting forgotten and going bad.

Fridge Temperature:

Ensure your fridge is set to the recommended temperature, which is usually around 37°F (2-4°C). This will help keep your food safe and fresh.

Rotate Items:

When you add new groceries to your fridge, try to move older items to the front so that you use them before the newer items. This helps reduce food waste.

Keep Fridge Clean:

Regularly clean your fridge to remove spills and expired items. A clean fridge is more efficient and keeps food fresher.

Consider Freezer Space:

If you have a freezer compartment in your fridge, remember that you also need to allocate space there for frozen items. Don’t overfill the freezer, as this can affect its ability to maintain the proper temperature.

Remember that these are general guidelines, and you should always follow any specific recommendations in your fridge’s user manual.

Additionally, some foods, like certain fruits and vegetables, may be best stored outside of the fridge to maintain their freshness, so it’s essential to know which items benefit from refrigeration and which do not.