Tried and tested! How to get the most out of your freezer

Have you ever opened your freezer to find it overflowing and a disorganised mess? Spark some joy with a well organised freezer! Not only will it keep your food fresher for longer but you will have easy solutions for a quick weeknight dinner and can stock up on essentials. Try our tried and tested tips to get the most out of your freezer and keep it working at its best

Declutter before organising

First step, get rid of unlabelled containers and products that have overstayed their welcome.

Time for a thorough clean

Move any food that you will be keeping inside a cooler bag or the fridge while you give your freezer a thorough clean. Use hot soapy water and wipe the interior clean with a sponge. Wipe inside doors and drawers then wipe any excess moisture with a clean towel. You can also use a food safe cleaner to clean, deodorise and sanitise. We recommend Aktivo Fridge Cleaner & Deodoriser.

Check your freezer door seal

If your door seal (or gasket) is not sealing properly, your freezer will need to work harder to maintain the interior temperature. This can increase your energy costs and lead to food spoilage. Check the seal and give it a thorough clean by wiping down with warm soapy water and a sponge. Inspect for any signs of wear and tear and if required, replace your door seal.

Set the right temperature

Setting your refrigerator and freezer to the right temperature will ensure your food is safe and will save on energy bills. Choice recommends setting your freezer close to -18°C. Keep an eye on the temperature during winter and summer and make slight adjustments if necessary.

Keep track of what’s inside

Too often things are wedged in your freezer and you forget what you have stored. An easy solution is to make an inventory list and stick on your freezer door. Cross out the items as you go.

Save space with resealable bags

Avoid waste

Knowing how long your food stays fresh ais a great way to reduce your household food waste. Check this handy guide for an idea of the shelf life of common foods.

Avoid freezer burn

Freezer burn is a result of moisture loss or food that has been kept in the freezer for a very long time. It may make the food look unappetising but it is still safe to eat. To prevent this, keep these handy tips in mind:

• Keep your freezer door closed as much as possible
• Cool your food before freezing
• Use airtight containers or resealable bags that have had all air removed
• Wrap food in aluminium foil or plastic wrap for an added amount of protection from moisture loss

Label everything

Slice your bread before you freeze it

Portion sliced bread in a resealable bag before you freeze it. Slices can be easily and quickly toasted while frozen.

Divide your freezer into zones

Create a foolproof system to keep your frozen goods organised. This could be as simple as designating areas for all your meats or putting the most often consumed goods to the front.

As a general guide:

• Meat, poultry and fish should be stored on the bottom shelf
• Vegetables, chips, soups and sauces in the middle shelf
• Ice-cream, desserts, frozen fruit on the top shelf

Cook double

Cooking double batches and freezing for another day is a great way to save time.

Avoid placing glass bottles in the freezer

A quick chill is ok, but if you leave it in the freezer too long, they may crack or explode, which can cause damage or even physical harm.

Stock it up

Your freezer is more efficient if it stocked up – just don’t overfill it! Air needs to circulate around the food for even cooling.

Now that your freezer is well organised, why not tackle your refrigerator? Check out our Fridge cleaning tips that work.

Need replacement spare parts for your fridge or freezer? We’ve got you covered. From fridge door seals, globes and hinges to shelves, crisper drawers and water filters, you can count on Statewide Appliance Spares to find you the part you need.