The fridge is a space that can be delicious and inviting, but for some it can be a space that is unappealing and something to avoid. Having a fridge that is unorganized can not only make locating food more of a challenge, but also become a money-waster with unused food gone bad.
By using the tips below you will be equipped to organize your fridge to save time!
Save time by using effective storage containers.
Do you have a cabinet or drawer with multiple shapes and sizes of food storage containers? I recommend that you sort through your food containers and keep the ones that are in good condition, stack well, and have lids to them. By having food containers that are stackable and in good condition, you will not only save space, but you will save time by having food already prepared and stored in the containers.
Foods that are perfect for storing in containers include cut veggies, pre-made salads, leftovers for next-day lunches, snacks for kids, and pre-cut items for upcoming meals. Making these items ahead will save you time when making lunches, in meal preparation, and the kids can easily get their own snacks.
You can also use clear fridge containers to hold items that are odd-shaped and hard to stack. Examples include juice packs, eggs, and yogurt.
Save time by using erasable food labels.
It can be annoying and time-consuming when you have to open every container to see what’s inside. By using food labels you can not only label the contents but you can also date them.
Erasable labels can be found online or at a number of retail stores. They seem to be very durable and long-lasting. Sharpie markers can be used on some labels and can also be washed off with a little rubbing alcohol, a “Magic Eraser” sponge, or in the dishwasher. Test the labels you purchase and see what works best for you. It will save you time not having to re-label your containers for each use.
Save time by creating a food rotation system.
Once you have made a trip to the grocery store, I recommend storing items in the fridge behind the current like-item instead of just sliding the fresh items anywhere in the fridge. Knowing which food products need to be used will help to keep them from going bad. You can also date items using the date of purchase if you are not able to keep all your like items lined up. Whether you use a traditional grocery list or a phone app, keeping like items together and dating them will help you when it’s time to take inventory for your grocery trip.
Save time by creating a “Clean Sweep” day.
I like to use trash day as a motivator to get my fridge cleaned out of food that is no longer needed. Pick a day that you can call your “Clean Sweep” day. You can either do this sweep the night before trash day or the morning of. You can also ask your kids to help participate in this and make it a game. Having a set day and asking for help will save you time from having a major overhaul of your fridge down the road. Keep your fridge on a regular maintenance plan and you will save tons of time!
These tips are very simple and easy to implement. By having your family on board with your new fridge system, you will be pleased every time you open the fridge door. You won’t question what’s hiding in the back or if food is being wasted. Most of all, you will save time with your new organized fridge!
Do you have any special tricks in you use to organize the fridge to save time? Tell us in a comment!
This post is a guest post by Angela Agranoff from The Uncluttered Angel.Being a mother and business owner, Angela understands how important it is to be organized in the home, especially when it comes to the kitchen and meal preparation. Our lives can be busy between working and family activities. Having solutions that are easy, economical, and healthy can make the heart of the home, the kitchen, a wonderful place to be.
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