Fridges are considered an essential item in homes today, and we take them for granted. They perform an important role in keeping food chilled and fresh. 15 November is designated as the World Clean Out Your Refrigerator day and serves as a good reminder that fridges should be kept in a clean and sanitary state. In the days before fridges, food might be kept in a pantry, on a cold block, or in an ice-house. There were, however, many other methods used to preserve food.