When was the last time you did a thorough clean of your fridge? We know how daunting it can be to remove everything and reorganise. It’s important to do it once every three months to make sure the fridge is clean and the contents are safe for consumption. We’re here to help with this step-by-step guide on how you can keep your fridge in optimal condition.

1. Remove All Content from Fridge

Take out every single thing in your fridge in portion (to prevent the bulk of food from turning bad in the open air). Store frozen food in a cooler box while you’re cleaning to keep them cool. Once done, wipe any dirt or stains, especially in the crevices of your fridge. Clean with disinfecting wipes, instead of just using a regular cloth. If needed, remove shelf compartments and rinse them with hot water to completely remove stubborn stains.

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2. Organise with Containers

Instead of placing your groceries all over the fridge in small plastic bags, segregate them by different types of food in transparent containers. You can even have a container that says “Eat Me First”, for food that is about to expire. This way, you’ll reduce food wastage and ultimately, spend lesser money on grocery shopping. It’s a win-win situation for all, right?

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3. Label Your Containers

Next, if you have a habit of leaving (good) food forgotten in the fridge, label them. It’s for you to know exactly when you bought or cooked it and when the expiry date is. Cooked food left in the fridge should generally be eaten within three to four days, do not store them beyond that.

Here’s a tip - after food is cooked, let it sit at room temperature for about two hours, before placing them in the fridge. This helps to slow down bacteria growth.

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4. Get Yourself a Lazy Susan
Store all herbs, spices and sauces in a Lazy Susan. It is great for small items that are prone to be lost in the fridge. Keep all opened jam jars on the Lazy Susan, so your daily Peanut Butter Jelly Sandwich can be done quicker for rushed mornings.

5. Don’t Keep All Items in the Fridge
There’s no need to store everything in the fridge – some vegetables and items like eggs will still stay fresh in a normal room temperature environment. If you have space on the counter, or in the pantry or cabinet, place them there instead.

6. Create a Checklist for Grocery shopping
Minimise waste by buying only the things you need, and not want. Help your fridge (and wallet) by making a checklist before heading out for grocery shopping. If creating a checklist proves too much of an effort, then take a quick photo of what’s in your fridge. This way, you’ll have a sense of what items you need and don’t. Here’s a tip – don’t go grocery shopping when you’re hungry as you might buy everything you see from every aisle.

Read: Where to Find the Best Organic Food and Groceries in Singapore

7. Make Your Fridge Smell Good
If your fridge reeks of old cheese mixed with onion or smells generally unpleasant, get a Fridge Fresh Refrigerator Air Filter – yes, this item exists and it’s a lifesaver! The air filter helps in absorbing the scent in your fridge and acts as a ventilator. It doesn’t take up much space due to its compact size and it is affordable, so no excuses not to get one.

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8. Clean Your Fridge Once Every Three Months

Don’t leave your fridge in a dismal state, and then take action – it’ll be too late by then. Treat your fridge well, and give it a good ol’ cleaning once every three months. This means doing a deep-clean and wiping the interior with a clean cloth and disinfectant.

Continue to scan the contents of your fridge at least once a week, to ensure no food is on the verge of rotting because the last thing you’d want is a breeding ground for bacteria.

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9. Line The Shelves
Make cleaning up much easier by using placemats or cling wrap over your shelves. If any spills happen, remove them instantly. This reduces the effort and struggle of you having to wipe the entire shelf, but instead just wipe and clean the fridge liners.

Read: Best Air Fryers in Singapore You Should Get for Healthier Food

10. Clean Up Every Time Something Spills
This one’s a no-brainer, but if you’re tempted to be lazy and leave it for the next day… just remember that it’ll get more gross next week! The same rule applies to sticky jars, bottles and cartons. Ensure you wipe it clean if there are drips on the side.

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