12 Things You Are Storing the Wrong Way

Within your home, it’s easy to get into the habit of storing items in particular places. However, it may surprise you to learn that you could be storing items incorrectly and not even know it. Below, learn about household items that are commonly stored incorrectly and where they actually belong.

Food Items That Belong in the Fridge

There are many food items that belong in the fridge after opening that are commonly believed to be best stored in the pantry or a cabinet. Below, we’re debunking these theories to ensure that your food stays as fresh as possible.

1. Maple Syrup

While it’s commonly believed that maple syrup is okay to keep in the pantry or in a cabinet, it should actually be stored in the fridge once it’s open. If not, it will spoil. This is because high-quality maple syrup contains no preservatives. Storing it at room temperature may cause it to develop mold on the surface. Thus, once opened, it is best stored in the fridge.

2. Soy Sauce

Another condiment that is best stored in the fridge after opening is soy sauce. Although soy sauce would technically be fine in a room temperature environment thanks to its high sodium content, keeping it in the fridge has been proven to help preserve its freshness and flavor. Unless you are planning to quickly deplete your bottle of soy sauce, it should be kept in the fridge.

3. Nut and Wheat Flours

After opening, whole wheat flour and nut flours should be stored in the fridge, which is something that many people do not tend to do. If these items are not stored correctly, the wheat germ will spoil quickly.

4. Lemons, Oranges, and Limes

These citrus fruits are commonly left on the counter or decoratively in a bowl, but if they are stored in the fridge, they will last up to four times longer.

Food Items That Don’t Belong in the Fridge

There’s also a laundry list of items that shouldn’t be stored in the fridge that commonly are. Find them listed below.

5. Potatoes

Storing potatoes in the fridge can cause them to take on a strange taste or rot quicker. Instead, store them in paper bags in a cool and dry pantry.

6. Avocados

It’s easy to assume that produce should always be kept in the fridge, but this isn’t always the case. In fact, avocados should be stored outside of the fridge unless you’re looking to delay their ripening or keeping them from becoming overly ripe. Store them on the counter to aid in the ripening process.

7. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are another piece of produce that flourish the best outside of the fridge. Keeping them in the fridge can cause them to spoil more quickly and alters their flavor. Keep them on the counter in a bowl for the best results.

8. Onions and Garlic

These flavorful foods should not be kept in the fridge, but instead in dry, ventilated areas. Keep in mind that it’s best not to store them near potatoes.

9. Honey

Honey is known to be the one food that never spoils and it does not require refrigeration. Store this condiment in the pantry.

Toiletries and Medicines

Medicines and toiletries should be stored properly at all times, particularly before use or consumption. Here are the toiletries and medicinal items you may be storing incorrectly.

10. Aloe

While fresh aloe vera requires refrigeration to keep it fresh, most households keep store-bought aloe gels on hand. While the store bought version doesn’t need to be kept in the fridge, it will feel better on sunburns if it is kept cool.

11. Prescription Medicines

Certain prescriptions should be kept in the fridge to ensure that they maintain their effectiveness. These include insulin, penicillin, aspirin, and amoxicillin.

12. Sunscreen

Sunscreens or anything containing SPF should be kept in the fridge. This is because exposure to a warm environment makes SPF less effective.

Allow this to serve as a guide to ensure you are storing food, condiments, and even toiletries correctly and to make adjustments to the way you’re currently storing these items.