Freezer Storage
TIPical Mary Ellen : Episode TIP-233 -- More Projects » Organization consultant Pam Hix shares tips on how to utilize every inch of your freezer space.
- Chest vs. upright freezer. Choosing between a chest and an upright freezer all depends on the amount of space you need for freezing. A chest uses less energy, but an upright uses less space. When you have a chest-type freezer, it's easier to find items within it.
- Make sure that the freezer door gasket is tightly sealed to prevent energy from being wasted.
- For better energy efficiency, keep your freezer as full as possible. Here's one way to do this: As ice-cube trays become frozen, empty them into plastic storage bags. This will take up the extra space, and you'll be prepared when company comes over.
- If your ice-cube trays are stuck to the bottom of your freezer, place a towel soaked in hot water next to the tray for a few seconds. The tray should come loose with ease.
- Create a storage log or map of the freezer contents to help with locating needed food items quickly. Keep the log next to the freezer.
- Use graph paper to create a perpetual freezer inventory sheet, and hang it inside a kitchen cupboard. On the lefthand side of the paper, list all the items you usually have in your freezer. (List either alphabetically or by category). Number the vertical columns. Beside each listed item, check off the number on hand of the particular food. As you remove something from the freezer, make an "X" through the checkmark, starting with the numbers on the right and working toward the left. This way you can always see how many items you have left. (Use a pencil for this system, and simply erase the old markings and re-enter new ones when you re-stock the freezer.)
- Use plastic or freezer bins to store small items together such as frozen vegetables, juice concentrates, ice cream and novelties, baked goods and breads.
- Store all food items within your freezer in clear plastic containers with lids. The lids will allow for stackable storage, and the clear containers will make it easier to find.
- Try color-coding items. For example, use red lids for meat, yellow for poultry and green for vegetables.
- Date each item with a purchase and use-by date. Periodically check the freezer for items that are outdated.
- Rotate older items to the front when placing new items in the freezer.
- To easily freeze individual hamburger patties, stack them between plastic lids, and seal in a plastic bag.
- If the power goes out or your freezer breaks down, the food should stay frozen for up to 48 hours as long as the freezer is packed tightly. If it is packed partly full, the food will keep for up to 24 hours. If this should happen, cover the freezer with a heavy blanket to insulate, and do not open the door.
Guests Pam Hix
Organization Consultant, Everything's Together Organizing Services
13012 June Terrace
Minnetonka, MN 55305-2740
Phone: 952-939-8080
E-mail:
pjhix@aol.com
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