Everyone knows that the bottom drawers of a refrigerator are for storing fresh produce, but have you ever wondered why? Most people, including myself, stash bags of carrots and heads of lettuce down there without even thinking about it. I knew it had something to do with humidity (maybe?), but I was well into adulthood before I even noticed that these bins had settings, and that the settings actually mattered. Here’s everything you’ll ever need to know about the most mysterious part of your refrigerator.
How crisper drawers work
Crisper drawers aren’t just a catchall for fresh produce; they also help extend the lifespan of fruits and vegetables. Unlike the rest of the refrigerator, which circulates cold air, the bins have their own separate moisture levels. Many bins have vents that let you adjust how much air flows in and out, and others are pre-set. More airflow means less moisture is trapped inside, while less airflow traps moisture in the drawer.
According to the International Food Information Council, some types of produce, like apples and melons, naturally emit ethylene gas as they ripen. When exposed to this gas, other ethylene-sensitive fruits and vegetables can ripen too quickly. Keeping the crisper drawer vent open allows this gas to escape, which prevents items from spoiling.
How to use crisper drawers
The reason there are two crisper drawers is to provide both high- and low-humidity options for storing produce. According to the appliance experts at Whirlpool, all you need to do is adjust the vents so that one drawer is more open to airflow than the other. Then, store your fruits and vegetables in the proper drawer—use the list below—to help them stay fresh.
What to store in a high-humidity drawer
This bin, which has less airflow to trap moisture, is best for produce that tends to dry out in the refrigerator and is sensitive to ethylene gas, such as:
- Leafy greens (like lettuce, collards, cabbage, and kale)
- Herbs
- Asparagus
- Carrots
- Strawberries
- Celery
- Zucchini and summer squash
- Cucumbers
What to store in a low-humidity drawer
This bin, which releases air and moisture, is best for produce that releases ethylene gas, like the following:
- Stone fruits (like peaches, plums, and nectarines)
- Melons
- Apples
- Pears
- Tomatoes
