The refrigerator is the heart of the kitchen, and the kitchen is the heart of the home. But having the latest refrigerator means nothing if you don’t use it properly: you won’t be able to make the most of it.
You need to take care of it to ensure your food stays in good condition for longer and is more practically organized for daily use.
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No matter if your fridge is the newest model. If you’re not using it correctly, you’re not reaping all the potential benefits. From setting the wrong temperature to improperly storing leftovers, here are seven mistakes that can ruin your fridge usage.
Check out seven common refrigerator mistakes:
1. Storing things that don’t belong in the fridge
If you think all perishables belong in the refrigerator, you’re wrong. Some foods, like potatoes and bread, can turn into sugar faster when refrigerated. Additionally, cold air can accelerate the decomposition process of certain fruits, such as melons, bananas, onions, tomatoes, mangoes, and apples.
2. Not setting the correct temperature
According to the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA), the ideal refrigerator temperature is below 40°F (4°C). Storing food at a higher temperature can lead to bacterial growth and even infections. Conversely, refrigerating some foods below 32°F (1°C) can cause freezing and flavor loss.
3. Storing dairy products incorrectly
It might seem logical to store dairy products in the door compartments of your fridge, but it’s not a good idea. The door is the warmest part of the refrigerator, making items stored there spoil faster. Use the door for sugary drinks (like sodas) and processed items. Milk, butter, and eggs should be stored on the top shelf.
4. Improperly storing leftovers
Avoid storing leftovers in deep plates or plastic containers, especially stacked on top of each other, as this slows down cooling and makes the food spoil faster.
5. Not closing the door properly
Nothing warms up a fridge more than a door with a broken seal. It doesn’t close properly and can spoil your food. Regularly check the seal on your refrigerator door.
6. Storing meat too high
If you store raw meat, fish, or poultry on the top shelf, you’re doing it wrong. Juices from raw meat can drip onto other items in the fridge, causing contamination. Keep them on the lowest shelf.
7. Not cleaning it often enough
Your fridge is a magnet for bacteria. Don’t wait for something to smell bad before cleaning it. Perform a deep cleaning every three months, including washing and sanitizing the shelves and drawers.
Source: U.S. Food & Drug Administration. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
