The refrigerator is the true heart of the kitchen, where midnight snacks, leftovers, and fresh groceries reside whether living solo or sharing space, following these unspoken refrigerator rules can make a difference between quickly finding your favorite yogurt or unearthing a forgotten, unidentifiable Tupperware from years past.

Respect the Top Shelf

Think of the top shelf as the penthouse of the fridge—prime real estate for drinks, leftovers, and ready-to-eat items like yogurt or deli meats. If you share your fridge, remember to keep heavier items on lower shelves to avoid potential spills. Keep eye-level items clear and visible to prevent hide-and-seek sessions with your hummus.

Keep It Fresh, Keep It Clean

No one enjoys discovering a science experiment in the vegetable drawer. Regular fridge clean-outs are essential. Set a bi-weekly reminder to purge expired items and wipe down surfaces. This practice not only maintains hygiene but also shows respect for your fridge and the noses of those who open it.

First In, First Out (FIFO)

Adopt the FIFO rule, just like supermarkets do. Place new groceries at the back and move older items to the front. This ensures that nothing gets forgotten and everything has its turn to be enjoyed.

Condiment Management

Condiments may seem immortal, but they have expiration dates too. Store them in the door, the warmest part of the fridge, and keep an eye on their freshness—and let’s try to limit the mustard varieties to a sensible number.

Label It Like You Mean It

Labels are your best friends in a shared fridge. A quick date and name on your items might seem excessive, but it’s key to avoiding mix-ups and deterring “accidental” consumption of your meal-prepped quinoa salad.

Space Management

Stacking in the fridge is an art form. Avoid creating Jenga-like piles; each item should be easily accessible. Use clear containers for stacking to save space and see what’s inside without lifting lids.

Vegetable Drawer Vows

Commit to keeping your vegetables visible and vibrant. Overstuffing leads to bruised, forgotten veggies that eventually become mush—separate ethylene-producing fruits (like apples) from sensitive ones (like carrots) to maintain freshness.

Snack Accessibility

For shared spaces, communal snacks should have an agreed-upon spot. This way, everyone knows where to find a quick bite without rummaging through someone else’s meal prep. Personal treats should have their own designated space as well.

Temperature Control

To preserve food without freezing, keep your fridge temperature steady at or below 40°F. Monitor the temperature regularly, especially after power outages or if the fridge door is left open.

Dairy Diligence

Dairy products need extra care. Store milk, cheeses, and other dairy items in cooler spots of the fridge, not the door. Invest in cheese paper or dedicated containers to maintain flavor and texture.