My refrigerator is an appliance that I take for granted. If I’m honest, I neglect it a little bit, which I shouldn’t, as it’s the true workhorse of the kitchen. Improper use and lack of care can lead to wasted energy, messy spills, and even foodborne illness.
While every refrigerator model is a little different, they all have one thing in common: keeping your food cold and fresh. To keep your fridge running like new and your food safe to eat, follow these simple universal dos and don’ts.
✅ DO: Check the Temperature
If you’re anything like me, you haven’t looked at the temperature gauge in your fridge since it was delivered. Mine was delivered nearly eight years ago, and I haven’t touched the settings since the professional delivery team from Shore Appliances set it up.
In my mind, if it’s cold, it’s working. Don’t be like me! Take a peek at the gauge to make sure your refrigerator is around 37°F and your freezer is around 0°F.
At 37°F, fresh food is preserved for as long as possible without ice crystals forming on produce, or bacteria growing in raw meat.
❌ DON’T: Store Highly Perishable Items in the Door
Refrigerator door bins are handy and even big enough to hold a gallon of milk! But resist the urge to keep milk or eggs there. The door is the warmest part of the fridge since it’s opened so often.
For best results, keep highly perishable items on the shelves instead, where the temperature stays colder and more stable.
✅ DO: Clean the Gaskets
A couple of weeks ago, I decided it was time for a deep clean. You know, tossing expired dressings, scrubbing glass shelves, and getting into the corners. That’s when I also cleaned the gaskets on both the fridge and freezer.
If the doors can’t seal properly, warm air sneaks in and cold air escapes. This can cause frost buildup or force the fridge to work harder. Wipe gaskets regularly with warm, soapy water to prevent debris or food spills from blocking the seal.
❌ DON’T: Overload the Refrigerator or Freezer
Easier said than done, I know, especially after a big grocery run! But overloading can block the circulating fan and restrict airflow, making it harder for your refrigerator to keep up.
Leave some space so cold air can circulate freely. Not only does this help keep everything evenly chilled, but it also extends the life of your fridge.
✅ DO: Change the Water Filter
This one depends on your model, but don’t ignore that little red or orange light telling you to replace the water filter.
Changing the filter improves the quality of both your drinking water and ice. Hard water buildup can clog the filter, leading to bad-tasting water, or stopping the dispenser altogether.
Luckily, Shore Appliances stocks filters for many makes and models. If you’re unsure which one fits your fridge, bring your old filter in and we’ll match it for you.
❌ DON’T: Ignore Humidity Levels
For years, I ignored the humidity sliders on my crisper bins. But they’re not just decorations, using them correctly helps keep produce fresh longer.
- Low humidity: For fruits that rot easily (like peaches or avocados).
- High humidity: For leafy greens, vegetables, and herbs that wilt quickly.
Once I started paying attention to these settings, my fruits and veggies lasted noticeably longer.
✅ DO: Separate Produce
Some fruits, like apples, bananas, and melons, emit a ripening gas that causes leafy greens to spoil faster. Be sure to store these separately from sensitive vegetables to keep everything fresher for longer.
❌ DON’T: Use Harsh Cleaners
Your refrigerator stores the food your family eats, so avoid harsh chemicals when cleaning. Instead, use warm water with vinegar for everyday messes, and baking soda for tougher stains.
This keeps your fridge fresh and safe without introducing chemicals into your food storage area.
In Conclusion
Taking care of your refrigerator isn’t complicated, but it does require attention and consistency. By following these dos and don’ts, you’ll not only extend the life of your fridge but also keep your food fresher, longer.
Remember, your refrigerator works 24/7 to keep food safe. The least we can do is return the favor with a little maintenance.
Explore our wide selection of refrigerators here to find models with the latest features, from smart cooling to humidity control.
Kelly Esposito
Shore Appliances
11 East Main Street
Clinton, CT 06413 | 860.669.8007