Spring has sprung, and with it comes the annual tradition of spring cleaning! As a senior, it's important to keep your living space organized and clutter-free, especially when it comes to your refrigerator. A well-organized fridge can make meal prep more manageable and even help prevent potential accidents. Let's roll up our sleeves and get started on creating a more functional and accessible fridge with these refrigerator organization tips from Senior Helpers!
Gather Cleaning Supplies
Before diving into the task of refrigerator organization, it's important to first gather the necessary cleaning supplies. You'll need a mild soap and water solution, a sponge or cloth, and some paper towels for drying. If you feel like you could use a helping hand, don't hesitate to enlist the support of family or friends. Choose a day when you have ample time and energy to dedicate to the task, so you can complete it without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
Empty Your Fridge
Start by emptying the contents of your refrigerator, sorting items into three piles: keep, toss, and donate. Be sure to check the expiration dates and quality of your food items as you go along. Once your fridge is empty, remove any shelves and drawers for easier cleaning. Wipe down the walls and surfaces with your mild soap and water solution, then dry everything with paper towels before reassembling.
Improve Accessibility
One common concern for seniors is the accessibility of the vegetable drawers at the bottom of the fridge. These can be difficult to reach, especially for those with limited mobility. To make accessing these drawers easier, consider purchasing a small, lightweight step stool. Alternatively, you can store frequently used items in more accessible locations, such as higher shelves or door compartments.
Track Contents
Another challenge seniors often face is keeping track of items on deep shelves, where things can easily fall out of sight. To tackle this issue, use clear storage containers so you can easily see their contents. Label each container with its contents and the date it was stored to help you keep track of expiration dates. Keeping a running inventory list on the fridge door can also help ensure that nothing gets lost or forgotten.
Managing Produce
When it comes to produce, consider chopping and storing it in clear containers before placing it in the fridge. This not only saves space but also makes it easier to access and use later. If you're concerned about the safety or difficulty of chopping your own produce, consider purchasing pre-chopped items for your convenience.
New Containers
Some seniors may find that traditional containers become too difficult to open and close over time. If this is the case, replace these containers with ones that have easy-to-open, ergonomic lids. Reusable silicone storage bags are another great option, as they're easy to handle and seal securely.
Grouping Items Effectively
Once you've addressed these common concerns, it's time to start refrigerator organization for optimal use. Begin by grouping similar items together, such as dairy products, meats and proteins, fruits and vegetables, and condiments and sauces. This will make it easier to locate what you need when preparing meals.
To maximize your fridge's storage space, consider using shelf risers, Lazy Susans, and bins or baskets. These storage solutions can help keep your fridge tidy and make it easier to access what you need.
Maintain Your Fridge
Maintaining a clean and organized fridge is an ongoing process. Regularly check for expired items and promptly clean up any spills or messes. Rotate items within your fridge to ensure that everything stays fresh and visible.
Spring cleaning refrigerators is an essential step toward creating a more functional and accessible living space for seniors. By addressing common concerns and utilizing helpful organization tips, seniors will be able to enjoy a clutter-free fridge that makes meal prep and daily life easier.
Get In-Home Care Assistance From Senior Helpers
If you or a loved one in Macomb, Port Huron, Utica, Richmond, or New Baltimore need assistance with regular cleaning, meal prep, or other daily tasks, consider reaching out to Senior Helpers Richmond, MI for compassionate and professional help. Contact us today to learn more about our in-home care services.