It is not uncommon for toddlers to be fascinated by refrigerators — after all, they’re doors to secret, chilly worlds full of colorful things to touch and eat. If your toddler’s newfound mobility and unwavering curiosity extend to your home’s appliances, make sure you keep inappropriate items out of reach. Use these three tips to toddler-proof your refrigerator and avoid big spills or injuries from falling objects like jars or glass containers filled with leftovers.

3 Toddler-Friendly Refrigerator Tips

1. Keep Alcohol & Sugary Snacks On The Top Shelf

Reserve the top shelf of this appliance for alcohol, soda, energy drinks, and sugary snacks. With these items out of reach, you won’t have to worry about coming into the kitchen and seeing beer cans, frosting, or cookies scattered about your kitchen. Even if you use a child-proof latch on your refrigerator, it’s still a good idea to always keep these items away from little hands.

2. Place Items That Can Spill On The Middle Shelf

Put open containers or leftovers that could spill on the middle shelf of your refrigerator. Toddlers cannot reach the middle shelf of this appliance either; this ensures that anything your child could easily open and splatter all over your kitchen floor will stay safe. Use the middle shelf for all food stored in plastic containers, including sauces and leftovers. As you’re reorganizing your refrigerator, use this time to clear the appliance of old leftovers and anything else that looks or smells suspicious.

3. Use The Lower Shelf For Healthy, Spill-Proof Foods

Place healthy snacks with no risk of spilling, such as yogurt or string cheese, on the bottom shelf. Use this shelf for fruits and vegetables if you run out of room in your crisper. Keep these items within eye level of your toddler to encourage healthy snacking, and feel free to point out each food to the little one as you choose snacks together.

If it’s time for a new refrigerator with toddler-tested shelves, find what you need at Krogen’s Do It Best today. The furniture, hardware, and appliance superstore in Boscobel, WI offers over 65,000 products from a knowledgeable, friendly staff ready to help you. Verizon Wireless® phones and other electronics are also sold here. Call (608) 375-4656 today with appliance questions or browse their online inventory. Follow them on Facebook for the latest updates, contests, and tips.