As the weather warms and flowers bloom, spring is the perfect time to freshen up your home—starting with your food storage areas. Keeping your pantry and refrigerator clean and organized helps keep your family safe and reduces food waste. Here’s a simple guide to get you started.

Check Expiration Dates
Go through every item in your pantry, fridge, and freezer. Look closely at expiration and “best by” dates. Throw away anything that’s expired, moldy, or smells off. If you find bulging or rusted cans, those should be tossed too.

Clean Shelves and Drawers
Take everything out of your cabinets and refrigerator. Use warm, soapy water to wipe down all surfaces. Don’t forget to dry them before putting the food back. Crumbs and spills can attract bugs or rodents, so it’s important to clean them up.

Organize by Type and Date
Group similar items together—like all the canned goods, grains, or spices. Try placing newer items behind the older ones so that you’ll use the older ones first. This helps you avoid waste and saves money in the long run.

Use Proper Storage Containers
Transfer dry foods like rice, pasta, and flour into airtight containers. This keeps them fresher longer and keeps bugs out. Label containers with the name of the food and the date you stored it.

Watch for Pests
As you clean, look for signs of bugs or rodents. This includes droppings, gnaw marks, or holes in packaging. If you find anything suspicious, clean thoroughly and consider calling a pest control expert.

Restock Smart
After cleaning and organizing, make a shopping list of what you need. Only buy what you’ll use. Keep a running list on your fridge or phone so you don’t buy more than you can store.

Need More Help?
Visit https://agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/assets/life-health/cooking-food-safety/food-safety/ for trusted advice from food safety experts.

Spring cleaning your food storage doesn’t take much time, but it can make a big difference. A clean, organized pantry means less waste, safer meals, and peace of mind.