Even though freezer burned food is safe to eat, it won’t taste good. Once your freezer is empty, it’s a great opportunity to clean out any drips or spills.

Leave about 1⁄2 to 1 inch (1. 3 to 2. 5 cm) of headspace for the food to expand when freezing so you don’t break the container. [5] X Research source If you want the box for cooking directions, you can always cut out the directions part and tape it on the container, jot down directions on the label, or look up directions later online.

Once they’re frozen flat, you can stack them vertically and file them in a box or magazine holders. Your freezer will be just as organized as a filing cabinet. [7] X Research source

You can use a special label maker, or simply put a bit of blue tape on the outside of the container and write with a permanent marker. Make sure your labels face outwards, so you don’t have to claw through your freezer to figure out when to eat something. [9] X Research source

You might want to measure your freezer before you buy bins to make sure they fit. [11] X Research source If you have a chest freezer, open bins or crates help divide your freezer into compartments. If shelves are getting in the way of your new bin system, you can just take them out. [12] X Research source Invest in a multi-door freezer; it is easy to organize and freeze food items in a multi-door freezer.

You can easily pull the gallon out of your freezer using its handle and pour out a portion.

Preparing many servings at once and freezing individual portions can save you tons of cooking time later on. [15] X Research source

Whenever you throw something in the freezer, just add it to the list, and scratch it off once it’s eaten. This can be especially helpful if you have an extra freezer outside of the kitchen with food you tend to forget about.