The ideal temperature for your fridge should be between 37°F (3°C) and 40°F (5°C), with 37°F (3°C) often cited as the optimal temperature to keep food fresh and safe without freezing it
. The Food Standards Agency recommends setting household fridges at 5°C or below to inhibit bacterial growth
. A safe and commonly recommended temperature range is 35°F to 40°F (1.7°C to 4.4°C), ensuring food safety by keeping the temperature below 40°F, which is considered the upper limit to avoid the "danger zone" where bacteria multiply rapidly
. Some users prefer setting their fridge slightly colder, around 34°F to 37°F, to provide a buffer when the door is opened frequently and to extend the shelf life of perishables, though this may increase electricity usage
. In summary, aim for a fridge temperature between 35°F and 40°F (approximately 3°C to 5°C), with 37°F (3°C) being ideal for most foods to stay fresh and safe.
