At a glance, it may seem like using a refrigerator is pretty straightforward. It feels like all you need is to check the best prices on refrigerators, get one that’s efficient and less expensive, and that’s it. But on the contrary, there are things you should and shouldn’t do when using this appliance. Read below to find out the do’s and don’ts.
Do adjust the temperatures accordingly
The ideal temperature of a refrigerator is 40 degrees F or lower. This slows down the growth of harmful bacteria - protecting your leftovers and keeping them safe to consume. For the freezer, an ideal 0 degrees F is the optimal temperature. Don’t assume that these are already set when you buy your fridge. Check the settings and adjust as needed.
Don’t leave the refrigerator door open too long
Opening the refrigerator for too long exposes the food items inside to warmth, which will speed up the spoiling process. Not to mention that keeping the door open accounts for 7% of the refrigerator’s energy use as per Home Energy Magazine. Take what you need as quickly as possible and don’t linger any longer than necessary by the door.
Do separate and organize items properly
The reason why we separate items inside is to avoid cross-contamination. For example, it’s not recommended to put cooked meat with raw meat as the spread of pathogens can cause food poisoning. Certain fruits such as apples and bananas also let out ethylene that can cause premature spoilage among the other produce nearby. Separate said fruit from different produce to avoid this, and do so in an organized manner to prevent items from toppling over.
Don’t overload the refrigerator
Not everything needs to be put in a refrigerator. Hot sauce, bread, tomatoes are just some examples of food items you can keep in your pantry instead. Not only is overloading counterproductive, but it also leaves less space for food that does need to be refrigerated. There’s also the issue of the appliance being too cramped that one door swing can cause everything to fall out. Know what to put inside and keep out to avoid overloading it.
Do clean your refrigerator regularly
Every month or so, do a general cleaning of your refrigerator so you can check for any spills inside. Take all the food out and clean the inside of the fridge with warm, soapy water. While you’re at it, check if there’s any food that has gone bad and throw them away immediately. Lastly, don’t forget to clean the condenser coils as the dust may prevent the appliance from doing its job properly.
Don’t use harsh chemicals when cleaning
While cleanliness is a priority, it’s recommended that you don’t use harsh chemicals, as these can go onto your food and potentially harm you upon consumption. Instead, opt for simple solutions such as water, baking soda, and vinegar to use as a scrub for your refrigerator.
Take note of these do’s and don’ts the next time you use your refrigerator. By following the do’s and avoiding the don’ts above, you don’t have to worry about your food going bad or your appliance breaking down frequently.
Aside from these, it helps if you have a high-quality appliance that’s durable and easy to use. Experience the HarvestFresh technology with Beko refrigerators! With this, you can keep your food as fresh as possible thanks to its simulated 24-hour sun cycle. They’re also long-lasting, ensuring that you’ll be using them and reaping their benefits for many years to come. Shop for a Beko fridge for your home now!
