Putting boxes of cereal, snacks, or bread up high might seem convenient, but the heat rising from the refrigerator is terrible for your food quality and safety.
Spoilage: The constant, mild warmth from the appliance can cause dry food items to spoil much faster than they would in a cool cupboard. For example, “Bread becomes moldy more quickly,” and cereal boxes can lose their freshness, causing the contents to go stale or “lose their crunch.”
Contamination: Food stored on top of the fridge is also directly exposed to kitchen grease, dust, and humidity—none of which are good for your meals.
Better option: Store all pantry staples in a cool, dry cupboard. For best results and to prevent pests, transfer these items into airtight containers.
3. Bottles of Oil, Wine, or Liquor
Many homeowners use the top of the fridge to display bottles of decorative wine, liquor, or cooking oils like olive oil. This is a very poor storage choice for two main reasons.
Instability and Damage: The refrigerator motor causes a constant, low-level vibration. This vibration can cause bottles to subtly shift over time, increasing the risk that they will eventually tip over and break, creating a dangerous and messy cleanup.
Loss of Quality: Heat is the enemy of quality oil and alcohol. The heat rising from the appliance can quickly affect the composition of olive oil and wine, causing them to “spoil or lose flavor” much faster than if they were kept cool.
Better option: Store all alcohol and oils in a dark, cool cabinet or a dedicated wine rack, safely away from any heat sources like the stove or the fridge itself.
4. Cookbooks or Paper Products
Continue reading…
