Do you ever open your fridge and get immediately overwhelmed? Or feel guilty because the vegetables you bought with the best intentions have again gone bad? Or you end up buying more of what you don’t need because you can’t see what you have? We got you!

Here are a few simple tips to set up a fridge organization system that is easy to maintain, will ease your burden and make shopping and cooking so much easier!

1. Keep your fridge only partially full.  Do not overstuff your fridge.  Not only does overstuffing keep the food from cooling properly but it’s difficult to maintain organization when there’s too much in there.

2. Edit! Every 6 months or so go through your condiments, sauces and dressings and check expirations. 

3. Clean. Take everything out.  Wipe down the shelves with soap and water or a multi-purpose spray.  

4. Add in turntables and clear bins. I love these for fridges. Use them for sauces, dressings, peanut butter and jelly or anything that makes sense.

5. Add in clear bins to keep items categories.  We love an egg container, a soda can container and something for yogurt/kids snacks, and other other category you wish depending on how many drawers and how much space you have.  You can get everything you need in a convenient starter kit right here at the Container Store.  Or just go to your local Target, Home Goods or Bed Bath & Beyond for clear fridge containers. 

6. If you want to go a step further, you can add in these for washed fruit which will last much longer with a vinegar rinse and a paper towel on the bottom of the container.  

7. Label! We always say this but it’s super important.  This is how the entire household stays accountable to putting things back where they belong.  

The system should be easy to maintain and provide you with peace of mind and fresh food when you open your fridge.  Good luck!