National Clean Out Your Refrigerator Day

Happy person cleaning out a refrigerator, wearing gloves and holding a sponge, kitchen setting with fresh fruits and veggies.. — National clean out your refrigerator day illustration

Do you ever wonder what's lurking in the depths of your refrigerator? Well, wonder no more! National Clean Out Your Refrigerator Day is here to save the day (and your taste buds) from any potential culinary disasters.

When is Clean Out Your Refrigerator Day?

It's national clean out your refrigerator day on the 15th November.

The Origins of National Clean Out Your Refrigerator Day

Like any great holiday, the internet plays a big role in the history of National Clean Out Your Refrigerator Day. On November 15, 2016, this glorious day gained recognition online with a staggering 1,464 mentions. It quickly became an annual event that millions now participate in each year.

But why dedicate an entire day to cleaning out your refrigerator, you might ask? Well, let's face it—nobody likes a science experiment in their fridge. We've all been guilty of pushing condiments to the back, forgetting about leftovers, and letting our produce go from fresh to funky. This dedicated holiday serves as a reminder to tackle the depths of that chilly abyss and banish any lurking fridge monsters.

Cleaning Your Fridge Like a Pro

Okay, so you've committed to cleaning out your refrigerator, but where do you even begin? Fear not, for we have a step-by-step guide to help you conquer this chilling task.

Empty your fridge: Take out all the items, one by one, and place them on your kitchen counter. This is your chance to assess each item and decide whether it's still fresh or if it's time to say goodbye.
Scrub-a-dub-dub: Now that your fridge is empty, it's time to give it a good scrub. Use a mixture of warm water and dish soap to clean the interior, shelves, and drawers. Don't forget to wipe down the exterior too!
Say goodbye to the old: Now is the perfect time to toss out any expired or questionable items. Bid farewell to that jar of pickles that expired three years ago and that mysterious container of leftovers you refuse to open.
Organize like a boss: Once your fridge is sparkling clean, take the opportunity to reorganize it. Group similar items together, use clear containers for leftovers, and label everything for easy identification.
A fresh start: Finally, it's time to restock your fridge with fresh, delicious, and healthy food. Treat yourself to some tasty treats, stock up on nutritious fruits and veggies, and organize your fridge in a way that makes you smile every time you open it.

Did You Know?

The average American keeps their refrigerator for about 13 years. That means over a decade of storing questionable condiments and long-forgotten leftovers. National Clean Out Your Refrigerator Day gives you the opportunity to break free from the clutches of expired foods and embrace a fresh start!

History behind the term 'Clean Out Your Refrigerator'

1913

The Invention of the Household Refrigerator

In the year 1913, the first electric household refrigerator was invented by Fred W. Wolf in Fort Wayne, Indiana. This invention revolutionized the way people preserved food at home, enabling them to store perishable items for longer periods. The refrigerator quickly became a common appliance in households, providing a means to keep food fresh and reducing waste.

1930s

Frequent Cleaning Becomes Necessary

As refrigerators became more accessible and food storage improved, it became apparent that regular cleaning was required to maintain freshness and prevent unpleasant odors. The environment inside the refrigerator, with varying moisture levels and temperature changes, could result in spills, expired products, and forgotten leftovers accumulating over time. People realized the importance of periodically cleaning out their refrigerators to ensure food safety and maintain optimal performance.

1950s

The Advent of National Clean Out Your Refrigerator Day

During the 1950s, as American households increasingly relied on refrigerators to store their food, National Clean Out Your Refrigerator Day was established. The exact origin of this day is unknown, but it aimed to promote awareness and encourage individuals to regularly clean out their refrigerators. Observed annually on November 15th, the day reminds people to take stock of their refrigerator contents, discard expired items, and give the appliance a thorough cleaning.

Present

Recognizing the Importance of Refrigerator Maintenance

In the present day, the term 'clean out your refrigerator' has become a common phrase used to describe the act of clearing, organizing, and cleaning the inside of a refrigerator. It serves as a reminder of the importance of proper refrigerator maintenance for food safety, efficiency, and overall cleanliness. Cleaning out the refrigerator regularly helps prevent the growth of bacteria, ensures optimal storage conditions, and reduces food waste.