Transitioning from Thanksgiving to Christmas

As the last of the Thanksgiving leftovers disappear, it’s time to prepare your fridge for the upcoming Christmas season. A thorough clean-out not only ensures food safety but also makes space for all those holiday goodies to come. Follow our comprehensive guide to transition your fridge from Thanksgiving to Christmas efficiently and effectively.

Step 1: Take Stock and Discard

1. Remove all items from your fridge.
2. Check expiration dates and discard anything that’s past its prime.
3. Toss any leftovers older than 4 days.
4. Compost or discard any wilted produce.

Pro Tip: Use the “first in, first out” (FIFO) method when restocking to ensure older items are used before newer ones.

Step 2: Deep Clean

1. Remove shelves and drawers.
2. Wash them in warm, soapy water.
3. Wipe down the interior of the fridge with a solution of warm water and mild detergent or baking soda.
4. Don’t forget to clean the door seals and gaskets.
5. Dry everything thoroughly before replacing shelves and drawers.

Safety Note: Avoid using harsh chemicals that might contaminate food surfaces.

Step 3: Organize and Optimize

1. Group similar items together (e.g., dairy, produce, condiments).
2. Use clear storage containers for leftovers and label them with contents and date.
3. Store raw meats on the bottom shelf to prevent drips.
4. Keep frequently used items at eye level.
5. Utilize drawer humidity controls: high humidity for leafy greens, low for fruits and vegetables that emit ethylene gas.

Efficiency Tip: Consider using a lazy Susan for easy access to items in deep shelves.

Step 4: Plan for Christmas

1. Make a list of ingredients you’ll need for Christmas cooking.
2. Check what you already have to avoid duplicate purchases.
3. Designate a space for upcoming Christmas dishes and ingredients.
4. If you’re planning to freeze any dishes, ensure you have enough freezer space.

Planning Tip: Create a meal plan for the days leading up to Christmas to use up existing ingredients and make space.

Step 5: Maintain Freshness

1. Place an open box of baking soda in the fridge to absorb odors.
2. Use produce storage bags or containers to extend the life of fruits and vegetables.
3. Adjust your fridge temperature to between 37°F and 40°F (3°C to 4°C) for optimal food preservation.

Freshness Hack: Store herbs like cilantro or parsley in a glass of water with a plastic bag over the top to keep them fresh longer.

Step 6: Establish New Habits

1. Implement a weekly “use it up” day to consume perishables before they spoil.
2. Regularly check the back of shelves for forgotten items.
3. Clean spills immediately to prevent odors and bacteria growth.
4. Do a quick tidy-up before each grocery shopping trip.

Habit Forming Tip: Set a recurring reminder on your phone for weekly fridge maintenance.

Printable Fridge Reset Planner

To help you stay organized, we’ve created a printable Fridge Reset Planner. Download it [here] and keep it on your fridge for easy reference.

The planner includes:

• A checklist for each step of the clean-out process
• A space to inventory your current fridge contents
• A meal planning section for using up ingredients
• A shopping list for Christmas ingredients

By following these steps, you’ll have a clean, organized fridge ready for all your Christmas cooking adventures. Remember, a well-maintained fridge not only looks great but also helps reduce food waste and keeps your food fresher for longer. Happy cleaning, and here’s to a delicious and organized holiday season!