Freezer Fundamentals

Twenty-seven tips for wrapping, storing, and thawing all the foods you freeze.

An Organized Freezer

If the freezer is deep, post a list outside of what's inside. Record the date each item was stored. Use a magnetic pad or an erasable message board.

• Use square Tupperware whenever possible. Square containers can be stacked and positioned in corners and don't take up as much space as round containers.
• Stack similar foods together. If you have a side-by-side refrigerator-freezer, designate one shelf for meat, one for baked goods, and one for vegetables.
• Edit the contents of your freezer periodically. Reorganize so the oldest items are always in front and are therefore used first.