Many regions around the world are susceptible to tropical storms, whether they are called typhoons, hurricanes, or cyclones. In preparation for the arrival of a storm, people should take precautions, including preparing for possible power outages or water shortages.
Before Hurricane Helene hit her home in 2024, American journalist and writer Rebecca Walter shared in Reader’s Digest how their household experienced a power outage for over a week, resulting in spoiled food in the refrigerator and a lingering foul odor that seemed impossible to get rid of.
A simple yet effective tip shared by a friend, learned from her grandmother and confirmed by experts, was to place a sponge in the refrigerator before the storm struck.
To uncover the science behind this preventive measure, Walter interviewed cleaning experts Vanessa Ruiz from Sparkly Maid San Antonio and Derek Christian, Chief Cleaning Officer at All Star Cleaning.
Ruiz explained how food spoils due to excessive moisture in the refrigerator during temperature fluctuations or power outages, leading to odors and potential mold growth. The foul smell often stems from chemical byproducts released as microorganisms decompose food.
The sponge’s moisture-absorbing properties help prevent food spoilage and odors in the refrigerator during power outages by reducing humidity levels and absorbing excess condensation water.
Ruiz emphasized that using a sponge to absorb moisture aids in preserving the freshness of food in the refrigerator, extending the shelf life of fruits and vegetables while preventing moisture seepage into food surfaces.
Christian supported the effectiveness of the method, although it is not foolproof. Following a power restoration, using a sponge can ease the cleaning process for the refrigerator.
However, Christian cautioned that while using a sponge to absorb moisture can help, it does not guarantee food safety. It is essential to adhere to food safety regulations regarding temperature and time when assessing the viability of perishable items post-power outage.
When placing a sponge in the refrigerator, ensure it is clean and dry. To enhance its efficiency, consider these steps:
– Use two or more sponges – Place one in the fridge and another in the freezer to expand coverage.
– Sprinkle some baking soda on the sponge – Baking soda acts as a natural desiccant, absorbing moisture and odors.
– Replace the sponge when saturated – Swap out the sponge when it has absorbed excess water. Avoid frequently checking the sponge’s condition as it can compromise the refrigerator’s cooling efficiency.
Even with the use of a sponge, food in the refrigerator may still spoil after prolonged power outages. It is crucial to thoroughly clean the refrigerator post-power restoration:
– Discard all spoiled food – Any perishable items in the refrigerator that have been exposed to temperatures above 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4.4 degrees Celsius) during the outage should be disposed of, regardless of their appearance.
– Clean surfaces thoroughly – Wipe away spills and standing water, then use a kitchen-specific cleaner (a mixture of vinegar and water works well) to cleanse the interior. Pay attention to cleaning door seals and drawers, as they easily trap odors.
– Ensure complete drying – Remove residual moisture with paper towels or a clean cloth as a damp environment can harbor odor spread.
– Use deodorizers – Place some baking soda or deodorizer in the refrigerator after cleaning to prevent residual odors from adhering to the plastic interior.
As a side note, hurricanes, typhoons, and cyclones are all types of tropical storms with different names depending on their region of origin. Tropical storms generated in the North Atlantic, central North Pacific, and northeastern Pacific are called hurricanes; those in the northwest Pacific are referred to as typhoons; while storms in the South Pacific and Indian Ocean are termed cyclones.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) of the United States, once a tropical storm reaches sustained wind speeds of 74 miles per hour (about 119 kilometers per hour) or above, it is classified as a hurricane, typhoon, or cyclone.
Click here for more information on why hurricanes or typhoons do not cross the equator.