Your refrigerator plays a crucial role in keeping your food fresh and safe to eat. However, did you know that you could be unknowingly making your fridge a breeding ground for germs?.

Here are 10 things you might be doing that could be contributing to the germ growth in your fridge:.

1. You’re not cleaning the shelves regularly

The shelves in your fridge can become a home to various food particles, spills, and crumbs which bacteria find conducive.

Regular cleaning of the shelves, preferably once a week, can help prevent the buildup of germs and make your fridge a healthier environment for your food.

2. You’re putting hot food in the fridge

Putting hot food directly into the fridge is a big no-no. The hot food raises the temperature of the fridge, thereby promoting bacterial growth. It’s best to let your food cool down first before putting it in the fridge to avoid this issue.

3. You’re not organizing your food properly

Organizing your food correctly can help avoid cross-contamination. Raw meat, for instance, should always be kept on the lowest shelf to prevent accidental drips onto other food items.

Fruits and vegetables, on the other hand, should be stored in humidity-controlled drawers for better preservation.

4. You’re not washing your fruits and vegetables before storing them

Fruits and vegetables can carry different types of germs and bacteria on their surfaces. Washing them before storage can significantly reduce the risk of germs multiplying in your fridge.

5. You’re not using containers with lids

Leaving your food uncovered exposes it to the air and bacteria, making it more susceptible to spoilage and bad odors. Using containers with lids helps prevent germs from multiplying in your food.

6. You’re not checking expiration dates

The containers of leftovers that you put in your fridge could have expired already. Eating expired food increases the chances of food poisoning and other related illnesses.

Consistently check the expiration dates of your food items to prevent such problems.

7. You’re overstocking your fridge

Overstocking your fridge might be tempting, but it can contribute to the growth of germs. An overstuffed fridge has poor air circulation, leading to a warm temperature that is conducive for bacterial growth.

To avoid this, try not to overfill your fridge, and regularly get rid of expired or non-essential items.

8. You’re keeping your fridge door open for extended periods

Each time you open the fridge door, cold air escapes, contributing to an increase in temperature. An increase in temperature creates an ideal environment for bacteria to grow.

To reduce the amount of time the fridge door is open, get everything you need in one trip, and close the door immediately.

9. You’re not cleaning the fridge’s exterior

Cleaning the exterior of your fridge helps prevent the spread of germs. The exterior of your fridge can easily collect bacteria from your hands, so wiping it down with a disinfectant cleaner can help prevent that.

Make sure to clean the handles and the door seal properly as these are high touch areas.

10. You’re not performing routine maintenance check-ups

Regular maintenance check-ups can help spot and fix potential fridge problems before they escalate. A well-maintained fridge is less likely to harbor germs and bacteria.

It’s best to have your fridge’s cooling system checked twice a year to ensure it is running efficiently and to reduce the likelihood of food spoilage and contamination issues.

Conclusion

Many things could be contributing to the growth of germs in your fridge. However, a little effort goes a long way in making your refrigerator a safe and healthy environment for your food.

Follow these tips to help keep your fridge germ-free and your food fresh for longer.