Smart Fridge Organization: Turn Tuna Cans into Reusable Containers

Most people throw away empty tuna cans without realizing their potential. With a little cleaning and creativity, these small metal containers can be transformed into useful storage solutions for your kitchen. Reusing them helps reduce waste while keeping your fridge neat and eco-friendly.

Begin by washing the cans thoroughly. Use hot, soapy water to remove any oil or odor. For a deeper clean, soak them in warm water with baking soda and a bit of vinegar for about 15–20 minutes, then let them air-dry completely.

If you plan to store food directly inside, line the cans with parchment paper or plastic wrap. This step helps maintain freshness and prevents contact with the metal, keeping your food safe and your fridge smelling clean.

Tuna cans are perfect for holding small portions of food such as chopped herbs, diced vegetables, shredded cheese, or fruit slices. Cover them with cling wrap, silicone lids, or reusable beeswax wraps to preserve freshness.

Their compact, stackable design allows easy visibility of what’s inside, helping prevent forgotten leftovers and reducing food waste. Plus, their size makes them convenient for organizing shelves and drawers.

These cans also come in handy for meal prep. You can portion out ingredients for the week—like sauces, nuts, or cooked chicken—and label each one. When it’s time to cook, simply grab what you need.

Tuna cans can even be used for freezing small portions of broth, tomato paste, or baby food. Just leave a little room for expansion and transfer the frozen portions into airtight containers. Avoid using rusty or damaged cans, and don’t store acidic foods directly in metal.