Best Refrigerator Hacks

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Food storage hacks

Organising your refrigerator efficiently can help extend the shelf life of your food, prevent waste, and make meal prep easier. Here are some food storage hacks for maximising space and maintaining freshness in your refrigerator:

1. Maintain proper temperature

Keep your refrigerator temperature set between 3°C to 4°C to ensure food safety and freshness.

2. Rotate food regularly

Practice the “first in, first out” rule by rotating older items to the front of the fridge and placing newer items towards the back. This helps prevent food waste and ensures that perishable items are used before they expire.

Use labels or masking tape to label containers and leftovers with the date they were stored. This makes it easier to track freshness and prevents forgotten items from spoiling.

3. Keep food fresh for longer

Store fruits and vegetables in the crisper drawers, and consider using produce storage containers or bags to help regulate humidity and extend their shelf life.

→Related article: How Long Does Cooked Chicken Last in the Fridge? 

Cleaning hacks

Cleaning your refrigerator regularly is essential for maintaining food safety, preventing odors, and keeping your fridge running efficiently. Here are some effective fridge cleaning hacks to make the process easier and more thorough:

1. Use shelf liners

Place removable shelf liners or mats on refrigerator shelves to catch spills and prevent them from sticking to the glass or plastic surfaces. This makes clean-up easier and helps keep your fridge looking clean and fresh.

2. Clean condenser coils

Periodically vacuum or brush the condenser coils at the back or bottom of the fridge to remove dust and debris. Clean coils help improve energy efficiency and prevent the refrigerator from overworking.

3. Use baking soda for odour control

Place an open box of baking soda in the back of the fridge to absorb odors and keep it smelling fresh. Replace the box every few months for best results.

Maintenance hacks

Properly maintaining your refrigerator properly can help extend its lifespan, keep it running efficiently, and ensure food safety. Here are some maintenance hacks to keep your fridge in top condition:

1. Defrost manual defrost freezers

If you have a manual defrost freezer, regularly defrost it to prevent ice build-up. Excessive ice can reduce the efficiency of the freezer and lead to increased energy consumption. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for defrosting your freezer safely.

2. Check the door alignment

Ensure that the refrigerator doors are properly aligned and close tightly. Misaligned doors can cause air leaks, leading to temperature fluctuations and increased energy consumption. Adjust the door hinges if necessary to improve alignment.

3. Inspect and replace water filters

If your refrigerator has a water filter, monitor its condition and replace it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. A clogged or old filter can affect water quality and taste.

→Related article: Most Energy-Efficient Refrigerators

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About the author of this page

This report was written by Canstar Content Producer, Caitlin Bingham. Caitlin is an experienced writer whose passion for creativity led her to study communication and journalism. She began her career freelancing as a content writer, before joining the Canstar team.