5 Proven Ways to Get Rid of Mold and Moisture in Your Fridge
Let’s be honest: when was the last time you gave your fridge some real attention? We’re not talking about quickly grabbing food and closing the door. Over time, fridges can become damp, cluttered, and, unfortunately, the perfect environment for mold. It’s not glamorous, but keeping your fridge free of mold and excess moisture is key to maintaining fresh food and avoiding waste.
So, if you’ve noticed a bit more condensation than usual or found mold sneaking up on your veggies, here’s how you can nip it in the bud. These five simple strategies will help keep your fridge clean, dry, and mold-free.
- Wipe Down and Dry Regularly
Moisture can sneak up on you. Every time you open the fridge, warm air enters and cools down, leaving behind condensation. Over time, that moisture builds up, especially in your crisper drawers. To stop it from becoming a mold-friendly zone, regularly wipe down surfaces with a clean, dry cloth.
The Fix: Every week or so, take a few minutes to remove your food, wipe down the inside of the fridge, and dry any damp spots, especially in those tucked-away corners.
- Keep Produce Dry
Produce that’s stored damp is an open invitation for mold. Even if you rinse your veggies before storing them, they need to be thoroughly dried. Moisture clings to the leaves, and over time, this dampness can lead to spoilage.
The Fix: After washing your veggies, dry them well with a paper towel or a clean cloth. Store them in breathable bags or containers with airflow, and line your crisper drawers with a paper towel to catch any excess moisture.
- Use Airtight Containers for Leftovers
Mold loves exposed food, especially leftovers that sit around uncovered. Using airtight containers is an easy way to keep both moisture and mold at bay, while also preventing your leftovers from absorbing fridge odors.
The Fix: Invest in good-quality, airtight containers for your leftovers. Not only will this prevent moisture buildup, but it’ll also help keep your food fresh longer.
- Place an Open Box of Baking Soda
Baking soda isn’t just great for absorbing odors — it can also help with moisture. Placing an open box of baking soda in the back of your fridge will absorb both moisture and unpleasant smells, keeping your fridge a little fresher and drier.
The Fix: Put an open box of baking soda on a fridge shelf and replace it every few months to help control moisture and odor. For extra freshness, give your shelves a light sprinkle and wipe them down.
- Avoid Overcrowding
When you pack your fridge too tightly, air circulation gets restricted, which causes condensation and, eventually, mold. Overcrowding creates little pockets of dampness where mold can thrive, so it’s important to leave enough space for air to circulate around your food.
The Fix: Organize your fridge and avoid overstuffing it. Make sure your fruits, vegetables, and leftovers all have breathing room — and that cold air can move freely.
Mold and moisture in your fridge are more than just an annoyance — they’re signs your fridge needs a little love. By keeping surfaces dry, storing food properly, and giving your fridge enough room to breathe, you can stop mold in its tracks and keep your food fresh for longer. These small habits can make a big difference in keeping your fridge clean, dry, and ready to preserve your groceries.