As we age, we often look for ways to simplify our daily chores, especially the ones that can become a nuisance, like cleaning the fridge.

It's a task that can be time-consuming and, let's face it, a bit unpleasant.

But what if a nifty little trick could save you from the hassle of scrubbing your fridge shelves ever again? The best part is that it'll only set you back a mere $3.50!


This genius trick has been a game-changer for many, including myself, and it's all about preventing messes before they happen.

Cleaning expert Kelsey Gent inspired this idea, sharing her top fridge organisation tips using the Medium & Narrow Clear Drawer ($3.50) on social media.

While Gent's original suggestion was to use a plastic tray to discard meat past its prime, She found it incredibly useful for another purpose.


Here's how it works: Instead of placing your defrosting meat or fresh purchases directly on the fridge shelf, pop them into a specific container.

This could be a simple plastic tray or any container that fits comfortably in your fridge.

Recently, she had a package of raw chicken wrapped in plastic and paper that decided to betray her by leaking.


Thanks to her trusty meat tray, the mess was contained. All she had to do was clean the tray with disinfectant and hot, soapy water.

No more scrubbing the entire shelf or, heaven forbid, multiple shelves if the leak had spread.

This hack has two benefits: It saves you from a potential cleaning nightmare and prevents cross-contamination.

Imagine the horror of having to throw out perfectly good food because it came into contact with raw meat juices. That's a waste of food and money – something we all want to avoid.

When choosing a container, consider the size that best suits your needs. Hers measures 30cm by 10cm, but you might prefer something wider or deeper.

It's all about making your life easier, so tailor this hack to fit your fridge and lifestyle.


Another tip worth adopting from Gentt is the 'use first' container.

This can be a lifesaver for partially used items or those nearing expiry.

Place your veggies, cheeses, and snacks in this designated container, and label it clearly with 'use first.'

Not only does this help with food rotation, ensuring you're using up items before they spoil, but it also helps you see at a glance what needs to be consumed, reducing waste and saving money.


In other news, Paul Hollywood cautioned against storing bread in the fridge, as it accelerates staleness by drawing out moisture three times faster.

Despite Hollywood's advice, there is an ongoing debate among many about the optimal way to store bread, with some favouring refrigeration to prevent mould and extend freshness. More details are available here.
Have you tried this $3.50 trick? Do you have any fridge organisation tips of your own? Share your experiences in the comments below.