Quick Refrigerator Clean Up

Today, I am back with Keri for another Clear the Clutter Challenge! Last month we talked about kids clothing organization and this month we are talking about refrigerator organization! This might seem like a super easy task! Yet, it takes time and consideration in how to maximize your refrigerator so that you minimize waste. 

Empty everything out

First things first, you need to take EVERYTHING out of the fridge. As with all de-cluttering projects, the only way to see what you have is to take it all out of the space!

Wash all drawers and shelves and wipe down walls

Next, pull out all drawers and removable shelves and give them a good wash! I fill up my sink with soapy water and let a few pieces soak at a time. Wipe down and sanitize the inside of the refrigerator.

Check expiration dates and throw out anything you won’t use

While the drawers and shelves are drying, go through all of your food and check expiration dates. Also, throw anyway any items that you know you won’t use. For instance, that random ingredient that you bought for a specific recipe that you don’t plan on making again soon!

Be sure to wipe all jars and containers going back in the fridge! It is amazing how messy these things can be!

Be mindful about how you put everything back

This step takes a little time and strategy. You want to put things back where it makes the most sense. So, items the kids should be able to reach are put at their level and  things that expire soon up front and easily reachable. I put items that the kids don’t use on the upper shelves (eggs, leftovers, condiments, etc).

Also, don’t forgot about organizing the freezer too! I grouped all of our frozen breakfast foods into one drawer including waffles, breads, homemade breakfast sandwiches and homemade pumpkin muffins. Then, I grouped our smoothie ingredients together in another drawer. This will make it easy for quick weekday breakfasts!

I always use clear glass storage containers to store leftovers and homemade items (hard boiled eggs, protein balls, cooked rice).It makes it so much easier to quickly identify what I’ve got in my fridge!

Another organization favorite are these refrigerator organizers. They have helped the functionality of our fridge.

These drawers can be essential for small refrigerators (like mine!).

Mom tip: Save yourself time during the week by making up a week’s worth of individual veggie packets! This prep work make lunch packing during the week so much faster!

Don’t be afraid to move the drawers and bins around your fridge to exactly how it works best for your family! We actually permanently removed a few shelves in our fridge to provide more functionality. Play around with the space until you get it exactly how you want it!

A few years ago, we purchased a clearance refrigerator for our basement. SO HELPFUL! We use this refrigerator to store beverages and extra meat and frozen goods. It is certainly nice to have at the holidays when we are entertaining too.

30 Minute Refrigerator Clean up

Lastly, be sure to vacuum behind and around the fridge if possible! It’s an extra little detail that makes sense to do while you are cleaning the inside of the fridge!

This project didn’t take all that much time and it required very little (if any) money! I encourage you to spend thirty minutes this week cleaning out your refrigerator! It feels pretty gratifying to have a CLEAN FRIDGE!

We’ve got a refrigerator clean up checklist to get you started! Download and print out here!

Clear the Clutter Challenge

Next month, Keri and I will be back to talk about books and magazines! For more Clear the Clutter inspiration, be sure to join our Clear the Clutter Facebook Group! We share tips for organizing, behind the scenes, and it’s a place to ask questions and join in on a community!

Jaclyn Blog // Instagram

Keri Blog // Instagram