2. Dry Food Staples (Cereals, Snacks, Bread)
Putting boxes of cereal, snacks, or bread up high might seem convenient, but the heat rising from the refrigerator is terrible for your food quality and safety.
- Spoilage: The constant, mild warmth from the appliance can cause dry food items to spoil much faster than they would in a cool cupboard. For example, “Bread becomes moldy more quickly,” and cereal boxes can lose their freshness, causing the contents to go stale or “lose their crunch.”
- Contamination: Food stored on top of the fridge is also directly exposed to kitchen grease, dust, and humidity—none of which are good for your meals.
Better option: Store all pantry staples in a cool, dry cupboard. For best results and to prevent pests, transfer these items into airtight containers.