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National Clean Out Your Fridge Day - November 15

DURATION

30-60 Minutes

WHERE

In your fridge!

WHEN

November 15

WHOSE HELP IS REQUIRED

Adult

HOW IT MAKES A DIFFERENCE

This annual event is observed in an effort to encourage people to clean their refrigerators in preparation for the upcoming holiday season. Holidays aside, this national day is a good reminder to maintain a clean refrigerator for health and safety reasons as well.

DESCRIPTION

Due to our hectic and busy lifestyles, the cleaning of the refrigerator gets neglected, hence the creation of National Clean Out Your Refrigerator Day.  

ITEMS NEEDED

Get together a soap and hot water filled bucket, disinfectant, a sponge and a garbage bag.  Replacement or new box of baking soda.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS


NEXT STEPS


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Sound like fun?VIEW INSTRUCTIONS▼ to get started.
Sending or dropping off items to a nonprofit? Don't forget to tell them you found them through PGK! Download and print a packing slip here.
  1. Empty each shelf. Remove and evaluate all items that are spoiled or inedible. Rather than feel bad about the waste, try to learn from it. “Ask yourself, ‘Why am I tossing this food?"
  2. Consider composting if you do not already.
  3. Check expiration dates.  Foods past their “sell-by” or “use-by” dates may still be safe, and donated to food pantries.
  4. Wilted vegetables are usually fine for cooking or throwing into a soup. Or roast them now, and freeze them for later.  
  5. If you have food sitting in your refrigerator that is unused and well within its recommended expiration date that you have no intention of eating, pack a box of these items and donate them to a food drive.
  6. Store Foods to last.  Store leftovers and cooked foods so they stay safe and can be identified later. That’s especially important for foods in the freezer, too.
  7. Completely wipe down the inside of the refrigerator.
  8. Wash drawers and underneath the drawers.
  9. Vacuum condenser coils.
  10. Vacuum out under the refrigerator.
  11. Deodorize: replace or add new box of baking soda to deodorize your fridge.
  12. Restock shelves and drawers with good food.
  13. Use #CleanOutYourRefrigeratorDay to post on social media.