For generations, the freezer has been a go-to storage solution for everything from leftovers to unusual household items. We’ve all heard the tips—freeze your jeans to kill odors, or stick your batteries in the freezer to make them last longer. But not everything benefits from sub-zero storage. In fact, some things can be damaged or even become dangerous when frozen.
Here are five things you should never put in the freezer, according to Real Simple:
1. Glass Mason Jars
Unless they’re specifically labeled as freezer-safe, most glass jars are prone to cracking or shattering when frozen. Liquids expand as they freeze, which puts pressure on the glass and can cause it to break—a messy (and potentially hazardous) situation.
2. Carbonated Beverages and Canned Drinks
Freezing soda or sparkling water is a fast track to an explosion. As carbonation expands in the cold, cans can burst open in your freezer, leaving behind a fizzy, sticky mess.
3. Batteries
Despite old advice to store batteries in the freezer to extend their life, companies like Duracell say this is outdated and potentially harmful. Freezing can damage the battery components and reduce performance instead of improving it.
4. Makeup and Beauty Products
Beauty products aren’t built for freezing temperatures. Cold can alter their consistency, causing creams to separate, lipsticks to crack, or mascara to become clumpy. Worse, moisture inside containers can foster mold when returned to room temperature.
5. Electronics or Tech Devices
It might be tempting to put a malfunctioning phone or gadget in the freezer in hopes of a quick fix, but don’t. Extreme cold can damage internal components and reduce the lifespan of the device.
Bottom Line:
The freezer is a powerful preservation tool—but it’s not the answer for everything. Save it for the food and skip the makeup, batteries, and bubbly drinks. Your gadgets and glass jars will thank you.
Source: Real Simple
