Not everything belongs in the fridge. Refrigerating certain foods and household items can compromise their quality, speed up spoilage, or waste energy. As a major household appliance, your fridge runs more efficiently without them—lowering your electricity bill. Here are 10 things to store elsewhere:
Hot sauce doesn't require refrigeration. Unopened bottles stay fresh in a pantry cupboard for up to 3 years.
Fridge temperatures alter potatoes' starch, ruining their taste and texture. Avoid plastic bags, which trap moisture and promote rot. Instead, wrap in newspaper and store in a cool, dark place.
Refrigeration dries out bread quickly. Keep what you'll use within 4 days at room temperature; freeze the rest for longer storage.
Never refrigerate onions. Use a perforated paper bag for airflow; they last months. Keep away from potatoes, as onions release ethylene gas that causes sprouting and rot.
The myth that refrigeration extends battery life is false—extreme temperatures degrade performance. Store at room temperature in a drawer.
Garlic thrives outside the fridge. Keep it in a cool, dark pantry, loosely stored for airflow; it lasts up to 2 months.
Chilling makes tomatoes mealy. Store at room temperature in a bowl, away from plastic. Wrap unripe ones in newspaper to speed ripening; ripe tomatoes last about 3 days.
Fridge moisture creates condensation, altering coffee's flavor in beans or grounds. Use an airtight container in a dark cupboard instead.
Cold temperatures thicken nail polish. Keep at room temperature, away from sunlight, for smooth application.
Winter squash like butternut or spaghetti lasts up to a month in a pantry without refrigeration.
