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Table of Contents

Myth 1: The Dial Shows Temperature

Myth 2: Don't Put Hot Food in the Fridge

Myth 3: You Can Thaw Food on the Counter

Myth 4: Baking Soda is Best for Absorbing Odors

Myth 5: Food is Safe Inside the Fridge During a Power Outage

Myth 6: You Can Store Leftovers for a Couple of Weeks

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6 Refrigerator Myths Debunked

Updated Mar. 08, 2024Lyle Weischwill3 min read
Refrigerator myths

Discover the truth behind common refrigerator myths to ensure your food stays fresh and your family stays safe. From debunking the efficacy of baking soda for odor control to clarifying the safest methods for thawing meat, learn essential tips to maintain food quality and prevent bacterial growth in your fridge. Plus, schedule a repair appointment with Sears Home Services to address any refrigerator issues promptly and effectively.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • Ensure your refrigerator stays below 40°F with a dedicated thermometer to prevent bacteria from thriving.
  • Don't let cooked food sit out—store it in the fridge within two hours of cooking to prevent spoilage and bacterial contamination.
  • Avoid thawing frozen food on the countertop to prevent bacterial growth; use methods like the fridge, microwave, or cold water instead.

Does baking soda in the fridge really deodorize? How should you thaw meat? Is food safe to eat after a power failure? Here’s what you need to know to help keep your food fresh and your family safe.

That seemingly innocent rotisserie chicken in your fridge or the cucumber slowly turning into a science experiment behind those Chinese food cartons can make your family sick.

Learn the truth about these common fridge fallacies (along with a few refrigerator tips) to prevent bacteria and other nasty things from forming on your food. Here are some common myths, busted.

refrigerator myths busted

Myth 1: The Dial Shows Temperature

The dial inside the fridge tells you how cold it is in there. BUSTED!
You need a refrigerator thermometer to accurately measure temp. If it’s above 40 degrees F, bacteria could be growing on your food.

Myth 2: Don't Put Hot Food in the Fridge

Don’t put hot food directly in the fridge – let it cool first. BUSTED!
The longer food sits on your counter, the more chance it has of spoiling. Get leftovers into containers and into the fridge within two hours of cooking.

Myth 3: You Can Thaw Food on the Counter

Thawing frozen food on the countertop is just fine. BUSTED!
Letting that frozen steak sit out on the countertop is inviting bacteria to the table. Thaw it in the fridge, microwave, or cold water. Marinating should also be done in the fridge.

Myth 4: Baking Soda is Best for Absorbing Odors

Baking soda absorbs bad smells in your fridge. BUSTED!
Activated charcoal actually is better at absorbing odor.

Myth 5: Food is Safe Inside the Fridge During a Power Outage

If the power goes out and I don’t open the fridge and freezer doors, the food inside will be safe to eat. BUSTED!
If the power is out for less than four hours, your food should be OK, but play it safe and toss meat, dairy, and leftovers. Hard cheese, fresh fruit, veggies, and bread should be all right.

Myth 6: You Can Store Leftovers for a Couple of Weeks

Leftovers will keep for a couple of weeks. BUSTED!
If you can’t remember when you had that Kung Pao Chicken delivered, throw it out. Four days is the max for most leftovers. When in doubt, throw it out.

Schedule refrigerator maintenance now!

Extend the lifespan of your refrigerator and prevent unexpected and costly breakdowns with our routine maintenance service.

Call (213) 596-2538 or schedule online now.

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