9 tips to optimise your freezer space for bread storage
When I moved from the US to the UK, I was in for a shock: the freezers here are tiny! While this compact size can be a challenge, I’ve learned to appreciate the benefits. Smaller freezers are eco-friendly, cost-effective, and encourage mindful storage. By maximising your freezer space, you can make the most of your purchases—especially when it comes to storing bread, prepped meals, and bulk items.
So, here are nine tips to keep your freezer tidy, stocked, and as spacious as possible.
Why Freeze Bread?
Freezing your bread is one of the best ways to minimise waste and retain the key nutrients in your sourdough loaf. Not only does it extend the shelf life of your bread, but it also helps you avoid the disappointment of stale loaves. Here are our top tips on how to use your limited freezer storage space effectively.
1. Use Grip-Seal Airtight Freezer Bags
To avoid freezer burn, which can dry out your bread and alter its flavour and texture, use grip-seal airtight freezer bags. Freezer burn occurs when moisture evaporates from the bread, leading to ice crystals that create a dry, unpalatable texture. Properly sealing your bread in airtight bags ensures that it stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible.
Here at Good In Bread we offer the option to buy our bread with compostable freezer bags.
2. Flat-Pack Your Bread
Flat-packing your bread is incredibly effective for saving freezer space. We offer flat-packed freezer bags on our website. You can lay them flat, two by two or three by three. This method lets you defrost only what you need for any occasion. It helps minimise waste and saves space in your freezer.
3. Dedicate a Drawer for Bread
Consider giving your bread a dedicated drawer (or even two) in your freezer. This organised approach helps you keep track of what you have left before placing a new order at Good In Bread, ensuring you never run out of your favourite loaves. Plus, it keeps everything tidy and easily accessible.
4. Slice Before You Freeze
If you’ve ordered unsliced bread, a great tip is to slice it before freezing. This practice allows you to take out only what you need and avoids waste. If you prefer unsliced bread, simply defrost it the night before and keep it in an airtight bag. The next morning, preheat your oven to 240°C and pop it in for 8–9 minutes for that freshly baked taste.
5. Rotate Regularly
To prevent older items from being lost at the back, adopt a “first in, first out” rule. When you add a new loaf, place it at the back and move older items to the front. This simple practice ensures you’re using your bread up in a timely way, keeping space free and reducing waste.
6. Label Everything Clearly
Label each bag with the type of bread and the date it was frozen. This helps you keep track of what’s in your freezer and avoid mystery meals. It’s especially useful for different types of bread you may have. This way, you can use items before they go off.
7. Freeze in Portions
Freezing bread in portions is particularly helpful for those frequently used loaves. Instead of freezing an entire loaf, consider portioning it out into smaller bags so you only defrost what you need. This reduces waste, saves time, and ensures you always have fresh portions on hand.
8. Pre-Freeze Liquids and Sauces in Thin Layers
Pour sauces or liquids that complement your bread, like soups or spreads, into freezer bags. Lay the bags flat on a baking sheet to freeze. Once solid, you can store them upright, making it easy to stack and retrieve them.
9. Use Stackable, Slim Containers
If bags aren’t suitable, stackable, slim containers are your next best friends. They save both vertical and horizontal space and prevent items from tipping or sliding around in the drawer. Slim, uniform containers help maximise freezer space while keeping it organised and efficient.
Final Crumb
Optimising your freezer space takes a bit of planning, but it’s well worth it. Whether you’re stocking up on your favourite bread or saving meals for a busy week, a well-organised freezer helps you maximise every inch. At Good In Bread, we offer compostable freezer bags, making it easy to enjoy fresh, delicious bread without the waste. Just look for ‘Customise your order’ when you shop with us.
If you’d like to learn more, check out our related posts on the surprising health benefits of freezing your bread and our top freezing tips.
