Fridge Organisation Hacks: How to Maximise Space and Keep Food Fresh

When was the last time you spent far too long searching for that food item you knew was lurking somewhere in the back of your fridge? Even if you’re short on space, a well-organised refrigerator is essential for keeping your food fresh and saving you time when planning meals. Not only will organising your fridge properly help reduce the time you spend hunting for that elusive cream cheese, but it will also help you cut down on your grocery bill and significantly reduce food waste.

So, if you’re ready to transform your fridge into a model of efficiency, let’s dive into how you can spend an afternoon rearranging your fridge the right way.

Start with a Clean Slate

The first step to a well-organised refrigerator is giving it a thorough clean. Begin by removing all items from your fridge. Take out the shelves and drawers, and let them soak in hot, soapy water. Wipe down the entire interior of the fridge, taking care to use non-abrasive cleaning methods to avoid damaging the plastic. Once everything is clean, replace the shelves and drawers. To keep your fridge smelling fresh, place a box of baking soda inside—it’s a simple yet effective way to combat odours.

Tip: Remember when your mum would place an open box of baking soda in the back of the fridge? She was right on the money! Baking soda is a convenient and efficient way to maintain a fresh-smelling fridge.

As you replace your food items, check the expiration dates on everything. While some foods can be safely eaten past their expiry date, be honest with yourself about whether you will actually use them. Go through jams, jellies, and sauces that have been languishing at the back of your fridge and decide whether to make a plan to use them or part ways with them. It will be much easier to locate what you need when you’re not sifting through a jumble of items you’ll never use again.

Organise Your Shelves

If you have a habit of shoving your food into any available space in your fridge, it’s time to rethink your approach. Organising your shelves will help reduce waste by ensuring you know exactly where everything is. Create zones where similar items are grouped together and make the most of your space by placing taller or shorter items on shelves with appropriate vertical space. While you should tailor the organisation system to suit your needs, here’s a good starting point:

- Top Shelf: This shelf is one of the warmer areas of your fridge, so it’s best to avoid storing fresh meat here. Instead, use this space for leftovers and takeout—items that need to be consumed soon and will expire more quickly. Since this is often the first shelf you see when you open the door, it’s also a good spot for quick snacks that you reach for frequently.

- Middle Shelf: Store dairy products or produce that can be left uncovered (such as berries) on this shelf. You’ll typically have the most vertical space here, so it’s ideal for taller containers. This shelf is also convenient for items you use most often because it’s closer to eye level. Consider placing healthier, easy-to-grab items towards the front of this shelf to encourage better eating habits.

- Bottom Shelf: Use the bottom shelf for raw meat, fish, or poultry. This is the coolest spot in your fridge, which helps minimise the risk of spoilage. Additionally, storing raw meat here reduces the chance of accidental leakage onto other foods, which could lead to unpleasant odours or cross-contamination.

- Drawers: Make use of the crisper drawers for fruits and vegetables. These drawers are designed to control airflow and manage moisture, which helps keep your produce fresh and prevents mould.

- Door: Since the door is the warmest part of your fridge, store more stable items here, such as condiments and jams. Group like items together for easy access, and remember to sort and separate items according to their zones or sections before placing them back in the fridge to maximise your space.

Tip: The door and top shelf are the warmest areas of your fridge—arranging your items based on these temperature variations is the best way to prolong the freshness of your food. Don’t forget to make use of those specialised drawers for optimal organisation.

Utilise Clear Containers

One of the most effective ways to maintain organisation in your fridge is by using clear containers. Investing in a few shallow, transparent containers can make a significant difference. These containers come in various sizes and styles, including ones specifically designed for items like eggs and milk, as well as stackable and space-saving options. Clear containers help corral your items, making it easier to keep similar items together and see what you have at a glance.

When using clear containers, remove items from their original packaging and label each container by general type—such as “drinks”, “snacks”, and “veggies”. This labelling system will help you quickly locate what you need and maintain a tidy appearance. Additionally, clear containers are much simpler to remove and clean compared to entire shelves, making it easier to keep your fridge in order.

Tip: Consider investing in containers that are leak-proof and stackable to maximise space and prevent spills.

Implement a Sorting System

To truly optimise your fridge organisation, think about what you have, how often you use it, and the best placement for each item. Here are some additional tips to create an effective sorting system:

- Prep Before Storing: Wash fruits and vegetables before storing them in the fridge. Removing items from their original packaging can also help create a more streamlined look. For items that are prone to spoilage, such as fresh herbs and certain vegetables, consider creating a specific section in your fridge for these harder-to-store items.

- Create an “Expiring Soon” Group: Designate a spot for items that are nearing their expiration date. This could be a separate shelf or container where you place items you need to use up soon. This will help ensure that you use these items before they go bad, reducing waste.

- Keep a List: For an extra level of organisation, attach a dry-erase sheet or a magnetic notepad to your fridge. Use it to keep a running tally of what you have and what you need. You don’t need a comprehensive list of every single item; instead, jot down things like side vegetables you bought that week or meat products that are nearing their expiry. This will help you keep track of your inventory and make meal planning easier.

Tip: Regularly update your list and adjust your storage methods as needed to maintain an efficient and organised fridge.

Conclusion

Organising your fridge may seem like a daunting task, but with a little effort and a few strategic changes, you can transform it into a model of efficiency and cleanliness. By starting with a thorough clean, implementing a sorting system, and using clear containers, you can make your fridge not only more organised but also more functional.

A well-organised fridge helps you save time, reduces food waste, and ensures that your food stays fresh for longer. With designated zones for different types of food and a clear system for managing what you have, you’ll find yourself spending less time searching for items and more time enjoying your meals.

Remember, maintaining organisation is an ongoing process. Regularly check for expired items, update your inventory list, and adjust your system as needed. By making these habits a part of your routine, you'll keep your fridge in top shape and make meal planning and grocery shopping a breeze.

So, roll up your sleeves, grab those clear containers, and start organising today. Your future self—and your fridge—will thank you!