Refrigerator drawers are an essential part of any modern kitchen. They provide a convenient way to store and organize fresh produce, deli items, and other perishable goods. Keeping your refrigerator drawers organized not only helps to maximize the storage space but also ensures that your food stays fresh and lasts longer. In this article, we will discuss the best practices for organizing your refrigerator drawers and suggest some items to put in them.
Organizing Your Refrigerator Drawers
1. Clean and Prepare
Before you start organizing your refrigerator drawers, it’s important to clean and prepare them. Start by removing any items that are no longer fresh or have expired. Take out the drawers and shelves and wash them with warm soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and let them dry before putting them back into the refrigerator.
2. Optimize Temperature and Humidity
Different types of foods require different temperature and humidity levels to stay fresh. Most refrigerator drawers have adjustable temperature and humidity controls. For example, leafy greens and delicate herbs prefer higher humidity levels, while fruits and vegetables like it slightly less humid. Adjusting the settings according to the needs of the items you store in each drawer can extend their shelf life and keep them in optimal condition.
3. Separate and Categorize
The key to an organized refrigerator drawer is separating and categorizing your items. This not only makes it easier to find what you need but also prevents cross-contamination. Consider using clear plastic bins or dividers to create separate sections for different types of items such as fruits, vegetables, and deli products.
4. Utilize Proper Storage Containers
Investing in the right storage containers can make a big difference in keeping your refrigerator drawers well-organized. For fruits and vegetables, choose breathable containers or produce bags to allow for proper airflow. This prevents moisture buildup and helps to maintain freshness. For deli items, use airtight and leak-proof containers to prevent odors from spreading and to keep them fresh for longer.
5. Arrange According to Shelf Life
To minimize food waste, it’s important to arrange your items based on their shelf life. Place the items that have a shorter shelf life, such as delicate greens and herbs, in the top drawers or on the upper shelves where they are more visible. Place items with longer shelf life, such as root vegetables, towards the bottom of the drawers.
6. Keep it Neat and Tidy
Maintaining a neat and tidy refrigerator drawer not only makes it visually appealing but also helps in preventing spills and other accidents. Regularly check for any leaking containers or spoiled items and clean up any spills immediately to avoid contamination. Consider using labels or clear storage containers to easily identify the contents of each drawer.
What to Put in Refrigerator Drawers
Fruits
Refrigerator drawers are an ideal place to store various types of fruits. Apples, oranges, berries, and melons can all be stored in separate drawers to prevent them from emitting ethylene gas, which can cause other produce to ripen quickly. If you have a crisper drawer, use it specifically for fruits that require higher humidity levels.
Vegetables
Vegetables such as leafy greens, broccoli, carrots, and peppers should also have their own designated drawers. Leafy greens like spinach and lettuce can benefit from slightly higher humidity levels, so it’s best to store them in a crisper drawer or in perforated produce bags. Be sure to remove any ties or rubber bands from the vegetables before storing to allow for proper airflow.
Deli Items
Refrigerator drawers can also be used to store deli items like cold cuts, cheeses, and prepackaged salads. Place these items in airtight containers or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to maintain freshness and prevent any odors from spreading to other items in the refrigerator.
Eggs and Dairy
Many refrigerators have a dedicated drawer for eggs. This drawer typically provides a stable temperature and offers protection for the delicate eggs. If your refrigerator doesn’t have an egg drawer, the main shelves of the refrigerator can also be used. Be sure to keep eggs in their original carton for added protection. Dairy products like milk, yogurt, and butter can also be stored in refrigerator drawers to extend their shelf life and maintain freshness.
Meat and Seafood
When it comes to storing meat and seafood, it’s best to keep them in the coldest part of the refrigerator. Most refrigerators have a designated drawer specifically for these items. The low temperature of the drawer helps to prevent bacterial growth and keeps the meat and seafood at their best quality. Make sure to place raw meats and seafood on the bottom shelf to prevent any potential drips or spills onto other foods. Store them in airtight containers or sealed freezer bags to avoid cross-contamination.
Bread and Baked Goods
If you have a separate drawer or compartment for bread and baked goods in your refrigerator, use it to keep them fresh for longer. Bread tends to stale faster when exposed to air, so sealing it in a plastic bag or airtight container can help to retain its freshness. However, if your refrigerator does not have a designated drawer, it’s best to store bread at room temperature or freeze it.
Conclusion
Organizing your refrigerator drawers is a simple yet effective way to maximize their storage capacity and keep your fresh produce, deli items, and other perishables at their optimal condition. Remember to clean and prepare the drawers, separate and categorize the items, utilize proper storage containers, arrange based on shelf life, and maintain a neat and tidy environment. By following these tips and suggestions for what to put in your refrigerator drawers, you can ensure that your food stays fresh, lasts longer, and is easily accessible whenever you need it.