Did You Know that there is a particular day to celebrate your fridge's clean-up? November 15 is not just another day on the calendar; it's 'Clean Out Your Refrigerator Day'. This quirky holiday, which some say was started by Whirlpool in 1999, encourages people to tackle the often-overlooked task of cleaning our fridges. While the occasion is a completely American thing, there's no harm in adopting the practice in a "Swachh Bharat".
With many of us procrastinating the "Herculean task" of refrigerator clean-up, this could be the perfect occasion to get that fresh whiff out of your fridge
Refrigerators can easily become the Bermuda Triangle of food storage — items disappear into the depths, only to be forgotten until they start growing their own ecosystems. This day serves as a reminder to check for expired items and prevent those science experiments from taking over your fridge.
While the exact origin of this holiday remains somewhat unclear, it’s widely believed that it was created to prompt consumers to clean their fridges before the holiday season in the US. Whether it’s a marketing ploy or a genuine call to action, one thing is clear: a clean fridge leads to increased food safety, better health, and less waste.
How To Clean Your Fridge
Ready to roll up your sleeves? Here are some expert tips to make your fridge cleaning efficient and even enjoyable:
Music: Can't do without music. Buck up for an hour or so of cleaning with music. Without good upbeat music, the task can become tedious.
Empty It Out: Start by removing everything from your fridge. This allows you to see what you have and gives you space to clean.
Check Expiry Dates: Discard any expired or mouldy foods. When in doubt, toss it out. Don't take chances if you doubt the the 'palatableness' of the food.
Consolidate: Combine half-empty jars (like that last bit of pickle) to save space and reduce clutter.
Deep Clean: Remove shelves and drawers, then wash them with hot, soapy water. Don’t forget to wipe down the interior surfaces and door seals. You can also use lemon wedges to rub the insides of the refrigerator for a fresh smell.
Organize: As you restock, group similar items together — dairy on one shelf, veggies on another — to make finding things easier.
Label and Date: If possible, label containers of leftovers with dates so you know what needs to be eaten first.
Maintainenance: Make it a habit to check your fridge weekly for expired items and spills.
Lastly, admire your handiwork and pat yourself on the back.
Cleaning out your refrigerator shouldn’t be a once-a-year affair. Regular maintenance not only keeps things tidy but also helps prevent bacteria growth and unpleasant odours. Place an open box of baking soda in your fridge to absorb smells and keep things fresh.
So this November 15, don’t just let another day pass by — grab your cleaning supplies and tackle that fridge! By celebrating Clean Out Your Refrigerator Day, you’ll not only create a healthier kitchen environment but also set yourself up for success as the holiday season approaches. Remember, a clean fridge is a happy fridge!
