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When preparing for a trip, whether for a long vacation or a simple weekend away, there are so many things to think about: suitcases, documents, reservations… and often we forget about the refrigerator altogether. Yet, emptying the refrigerator before leaving is a simple gesture that can avoid many problems, from unpleasant odors and wasted food to mold growth and returning to a less-than-welcoming home. Let's see why it's important to do so and how to approach this small but crucial household task wisely.
Why You Should Empty Your Fridge Before Leaving and How to Do It
The refrigerator is one of the most used appliances in the home and, paradoxically, one of the most forgotten before a trip. Leaving perishable foods inside while away for days or weeks can cause food spoilage, unpleasant odors that are difficult to eliminate, and, in the worst cases, bacterial contamination. Furthermore, upon your return, you often find yourself forced to throw everything away.
Even from an energy point of view, a half-empty refrigerator that has been running for weeks is an unnecessary waste of electricity, especially if you can take the opportunity to defrost and clean it.
It's not always necessary to throw everything away: with a little organization, you can avoid waste and better manage your food supplies. In the days leading up to your departure, it can be helpful to plan your meals so you can use up as much of what's already in the fridge as possible. Vegetables, dairy products, eggs, and cold cuts have a limited shelf life: it's best to use them before they expire. For anything you simply can't consume, there are alternatives:
- Freeze anything that can be stored in the freezer, such as bread, meat, or sauces.
- Donate any food that is still good to friends, neighbors, or family.
In some cases, if you have time, you can prepare dishes to freeze, so when you get back you have something ready and avoid the stress of immediate shopping.
Cleaning The Fridge: A Useful Opportunity
Emptying the refrigerator is also an excellent opportunity for a deep clean. Once you've removed or stored all the food, it's a good idea to turn it off and defrost it, especially if you're going to be away for a long time. Wiping the interior surfaces with a solution of water and baking soda or white vinegar helps eliminate bacteria and residual odors. If you turn it off, remember to leave the door ajar to prevent mold or unpleasant odors from forming.
Better Safe Than Sorry
Emptying and cleaning the refrigerator isn't just a hygienic habit, it's a conscious gesture that helps reduce food waste, save energy, and return to a welcoming and tidy home. With a little planning, this activity can become part of your pre-departure routine, just like turning off the gas or turning off the lights.
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