Now, here’s how to spend an afternoon rearranging your fridge the right way.

If possible, remove the drawers and shelves and let them soak in hot, soapy water.

Replace the shelves and drawers and store a box ofbaking sodato help reduce future fridge odors.

organized refrigerator

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Well, she was on the right track!

Baking soda is an easy and effective way to keep your fridge smelling fresh for longer.

When you replace your food in the fridge, check all your items for their expiration dates.

A tidy fridge filled with food storage containers, storage bins, labeled drawers, and stacked snacks

Breathing Room

Organizing your shelves will help you reduce waste because you will know exactly where everything is.

Instead, consider designating it for leftovers and takeoutstuff you oughta eat soon that will expire more quickly.

The Bottom Shelf

Use your bottom shelf for raw meat, fish, or poultry.

The Proper Way to Use Your Refrigerator’s Crisper Drawer

This is the coolest spot in your fridge so there is less risk of spoilage.

Furthermore, you also won’t have to worry about accidental leakage over the rest of your food.

These drawers have vents to control airflow and adequate drainage to prevent moisture which can lead to mold.

Condiments In The Fridge

Getty Images/Benne Ochs

These are super helpful at helping to corral your stuff and keep like items together.

Having a section for harder-to-store items such as fresh herbs and vegetables may also be helpful.

This allows you to keep a running tally of what you have in your fridge without sifting through it.

investing in clear storage containers

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

A few key steps can help your food last longer and get dinner on the table quicker.